At the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), we’ve always known that Mauli Ola, the thriving wellbeing of our lāhui, is only the beginning. True thriving is not just about services or programs; it’s about Ea – our ability to chart our own course, define success in our own terms, and live into our collective self-determination. That’s why the Strategy & Innovation (S&I) Paia was created: to move Mana i Mauli Ola from plan to practice.
Unlike traditional “functional” departments, which are structured by topic (like Human Resources or Finance), the S&I Paia is built as a projectized model. Our teams are formed around projects, not just plans, with full kuleana over timelines, budgets, and outcomes. This model was designed to move us faster, with more clarity and accountability, and with direct connection to community.
Each of our four S&I teams steers a course focused on a strategic direction of Mana i Mauli Ola: Educational Pathways; Health Outcomes; Quality Housing; and Economic Stability.
These strategic directions are not abstract. They are living entities piloting programs, funding strategies, and proposing policies that uplift our lāhui. From creating ʻohana-based housing solutions, to growing access to capital for Native Hawaiian businesses, to building community-centered indicators of wellbeing, each strategic direction is designed to deliver results, not just reports.
The power of a projectized structure enables its team to break down barriers.
In a traditional “functional” model, staff wait for approvals or work in silos. In the projectized S&I Paia, our teams can cross-function with purpose, clarity, and shared vision. And still, we are doing this within an agency that was born of resistance and hope. We honor that our work today sits on the foundation laid by those who demanded more for our people. Our shift to a project-based structure is not just a technical move. It is a political and spiritual one.
It is our commitment to move from Mauli Ola to Mauli Ea.
As we look ahead to FY26, our sails are full. With our biennium budget approved, we are prepared to launch new partnerships, programs, and progress for our lāhui. We know that transformation takes time, but it also takes heart – and our heart is with our community.
“Hoʻokahi ka ʻilau like ana.” Wield the paddles together. When we work as one, united in purpose, no current can turn us back.
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