Talk Story Thursdays at the Hui: Keahi Bustamente

In conjunction with the captivating Mālama Wao Akua native species art exhibit currently at the Hui Noʻeau, East Maui Watershed Partnership and Hui Noʻeau are excited to present an engaging in-person lecture series.

Each of these talks will provide different thought provoking discussions, each led by experts who are passionate individuals dedicated to their environmental causes. Gain insights into the latest environmental challenges and solutions and get inspired by stories of resilience and conservation stewardship.

Keahi Bustamente is a native of Maui Nui. Originally from the ahupuaʻa of Nāiwa, Molokaʻi, near its North shore cliffs, he moved to the ahupuaʻa of Waikapū, on Maui, when he was eight years old. As a child he spent much of his time exploring and venturing into mountainous places where no others went. Little did he know that he was preparing for a career in searching for rare native species and protecting them from extinction. In 2005, after service in the US Air Force, he returned to Maui and shifted into a career in native forest restoration. Currently, Keahi is the Field Coordinator for DLNR’s, Hawaiʻi Invertebrate Program and the Snail Extinction Prevention Program for the islands of Maui Nui. He has been instrumental in the rediscovery and protection of numerous species of rare Hawaiian land snails, insects, as well as plants with the goal of preventing extinction.

The talks will be happening at the Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center. For more information visit here.