A Canoe Is an Island | A Conversation with Bonnie Kahapea-Tanner

Bonnie Kahapea is an educator, mentor, voyager, and community advocate.

While at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, Bonnieʻs passion for voyaging was ignited. She witnessed the Hōkūleʻa preparing for a voyage to Tahiti – and the pull of the ocean was undeniable. While pursuing her master's degree in transformative learning and change, Bonnie remained connected to her roots and "stayed close to the canoe." She never lost sight of her passion for voyaging.

Today, Bonnie serves as an instructor at the Kānehūnāmoku Voyaging Academy (KVA), fostering a new generation of seafarers. Her role blends sailing, traditional navigation, Hawaiian culture, and teaching, providing a unique learning environment for students participating in KVAʻs leadership and career programs.

Join us as we explore Bonnie's deep connection to the water, her experiences on the Hōkūleʻa voyaging canoe, and her commitment to perpetuating Hawaiian culture through mentorship and teaching.

Listen to the episode above or wherever you get your podcasts.