The Circle of Recognition ~ Ala Kukui

(The lighted path, pathway of guidance)
​
In ancient Hawaii, the oil-filled nuts of the kukui or candlenut tree were used as lights.  The tree is looked upon by Hawaii’s people as a symbol of enlightenment.
Level 1 - ‘Ilima Papa                                      
The ‘ilima flowers are made into lei and represent the ali’i.  Lei makers have a saying that you should “pick the fragile blossoms before the sun shines on their golden faces”.
 
Level 2 - Maile                                                 
Fisherman far out to sea could smell the fragrance of maile wafting off the land.  There are several forms of maile in Hawai’i, with leaves of different sizes and shapes and various amounts of fragrance.
 
Level 3 - Kauna’oa                                         
Kauna’oa is a lei flower that does not come from the most beautiful lei-making plant, but put it in the hands of a skilled lei maker and it is transformed into something beautiful and unique.                             
Level 4 - Palapalai                                          
Palapalai is a favorite of lei makers.  Lei are made from palapalai alone or in combination with other native Hawaiian plant materials.  Palapalai is one of the plants sacred to laka, goddess of hula and of the forest.
 
Level 5 - Puakenikeni                                     
The puakenikeni is the most popular of the greeting flowers used both as lei and ear garlands.  Its fragrance is second to none. ​This flower as it matures, changes color  from a brilliant white to a bright gold to a deep orange and has been chosen as our organization’s logo, reflecting the ever changing faces of the flower.

MAHALO NUI LOA to all of our Sponsors!

Leadership Kaua'i is able to maintain the quality of our annual programs due to the generous support of our Company Sponsors and Major Donors.  In return, Leadership Kaua'i provides opportunities for these Sponsors to receive public recognition throughout the year.  ​

‘Ilima Papa
($50,000 and above)

Annie Sinclair Knudesen Memorial Fund
McCloskey Family Charitable Trust

Maile
($25,000 to $49,000)

Kauna’oa
($15,000 to $24,999)

Hospitality Concepts
O'Connell Family Foundation Trust Est.

Palapalai
($10,000 to $14,999)

S.W. Wilcox Foundation
G.N. Wilcox Foundation
​The Resort Group 
Please reach out to us directly if you would like more information about sponsorship.