By Lai Sha Bugado
NaHHA would like to share a feature from one of our Lamakū Hoʻokipa, our Beacons of Hospitality, who are making a positive impact through the value of mālama and as a contributing member of the Native Hawaiian community.
KUMUMEA is more than just a business, it is a testament of resilience, a celebration of strength, and a story of hope.
In 2014, my life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. The mental, emotional, and financial challenges that followed were overwhelming and life-altering. But instead of succumbing to despair, I sought a way to channel my struggles into something meaningful.
In those early days, KUMUMEA was my lifeline. It started with a small sewing project making accessories from leftover material as a way for me to cope with my diagnosis. The first collection was named Hiapo, the first born, and it holds particular significance. Working on the collection helped me manage the profound news and allowed me to honor the stories of those who have walked beside me, offering their strength, love, and encouragement when I needed it most.
As time passed, KUMUMEA grew, and I added other collections to the brand. I also began to weave leather as a medium into my designs, sharing elements of my Native Hawaiian heritage and our family’s paniolo lifestyle. Through KUMUMEA, I found a way to not only heal myself but also inspire others facing similar battles.
Each of our collections – Hiapo, Kaona, Hoʻōla, Ulana, and Naʻiau – are deeply personal, and they all carry a piece of my heart. These collections are more than just accessories; they are the physical manifestation of the living elements embodied in the birth names of my children. Each piece is carefully designed to reflect the strength, beauty, and connection that embody the threads of tradition, innovation, and compassion that are so integral to who we are.
At KUMUMEA, every product I create reflects my life’s experiences – both the joyous and the difficult, with elegance and functionality. They speak to the courage and triumph that lie within us all and is a reminder that, even in our darkest moments, there is light and strength to be found. Each piece is a unique expression of the journeys we as people all undertake. I want our products to be more than just beautiful – they should enrich the journey of life for those who carry them.
Life will always bring you challenges, but you can choose to make it beautiful and turn it into something phenomenal. It doesn’t have to defeat you. It should help you grow and help you become something better.
Lai Sha Bugado is the founder, designer and owner of KUMUMEA, a Native Hawaiian-owned, operated, and locally made clothing and accessories company based on Hawaiʻi Island. After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, Lai Sha turned to sewing and design as a transformative outlet. KUMUMEA is more than a brand; it’s a movement that celebrates the human spirit and honors the resilience that lies within each of us. For more information visit www.kumumea.com or email [email protected].
