Welina me ke aloha,

It is with great joy and admiration that I offer these words in celebration of the

inaugural hōʻike of Hula Studio Lauleʻa, I Leʻa Ka Hula.

For more than a decade, I have had the privilege of knowing Itsuko Sensei and

witnessing her sincere love for hula. She is a thoughtful and mindful person

whose dedication extends far beyond learning steps and choreography. She

approaches hula with humility, seeking to understand the deeper meanings

within our stories, our mele, and our traditions.

What I have always admired most about Itsuko Sensei is her unwavering

commitment to preserving, protecting, and upholding the ʻike and teachings that have been entrusted to her. She carries these treasures with great care and

respect, honoring both the cultural responsibility and the aloha that hula asks of us.

To the haumāna of Hula Studio Lauleʻa, mahalo nui for embracing hula with open hearts and for walking alongside your Sensei in this beautiful journey. Your love, dedication, and hard work are reflected in this special milestone and are a testament to the spirit of your school.

As we gather for this inaugural hōʻike, may we celebrate not only the

performances on stage, but also the relationships, perseverance, and aloha that

have made this moment possible. May I Leʻa Ka Hula be filled with joy and serve as the beginning of many years of sharing hula with sincerity, purpose, and love.

Me ke aloha pumehana,

Kumu Hula Kaʻilihiwa Vaughan-Darval

Hālau Hula Ka Lehua Tuahine