Youth leaders launch pulse survey to shape the 2026 Ka Pewa Youth Summit on Kauaʻi; Student voices will directly inform summit programming, panels, and breakout sessions
In partnership with the County of Kauaʻi, youth leaders from Kauaʻi are inviting high school students across the county to make their voices heard through the newly launched Ka Pewa Youth Pulse Survey, a youth-driven effort designed to capture what matters most to young people today. The survey can be filled out at this link.
The survey will directly inform the programming, breakout sessions, and resource fair offerings at the 2026 Ka Pewa Youth Summit: Kupu Kelakela, taking place on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the Kauaʻi War Memorial Convention Hall. The summit is the second of its kind in the state, and is planned and executed in collaboration with student interns from Kauaʻi and Maui.
Kupu Kelakela, meaning “to rise in glory, to grow in greatness,” reflects the summit’s focus on empowering youth to step into leadership, strengthen their connection to place, and help shape pathways forward for their communities.
“The Pulse Survey is a way for students to tell us, directly, what they’re thinking about for their future, whether it’s housing and careers, education, mental health, or something else,” said youth organizers. “This summit is being built with youth, not just for youth.”
Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami emphasized the importance of youth participation:
“Our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are leaders right now. The Ka Pewa Youth Pulse Survey creates a meaningful opportunity for students across Kauaʻi to share their ideas, concerns, and aspirations in a way that will directly shape this year’s summit. When we listen to our youth and give them a seat at the table, we build stronger communities and more responsive leadership. I encourage every high school student to take part in the survey and help us shape a summit that truly reflects the voices and vision of Kauaʻi’s next generation.”
The Ka Pewa Youth Summit will convene an estimated 200 high school students for a full day of panels, workshops, and a resource fair alongside community leaders, educators, and decision-makers. The event is proudly curated with youth leads from the Kupu Kelakela Kauaʻi Internship Program and Maui Nui Hui Interns, ensuring the summit reflects the lived experiences and priorities of Hawaiʻi’s next generation.
Student registration details and ongoing updates are being shared on Instagram at @kapewayouthsummit. Students are encouraged to follow the account and participate in the Pulse Survey to help shape the day’s programming.
Community partners, businesses, and organizations are also invited to support the summit through sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorships remain available through the Kauaʻi Economic Development Board (KEDB) and directly support youth programming, meals, materials, and event logistics.
If you need an ASL Interpreter, materials in an alternate format, or other auxiliary aid support, or an interpreter for a language other than English, please contact the Office of the Mayor at 808- 241-4900 or CountyPIO@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.
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