Kawai is the Fisheries Management Area (FMA) Coordinator for Mālama Maunalua. Born and raised in Kaimukī, he is a graduate of Punahou School. His background is in natural resource management, having worked on projects with Pono Pacific, Kupu, and Conservation International. His specialty is invasive fisheries, and his work involves increasing education and awareness—through invasive fishing tournaments—of taʻape (common bluestripe snapper) as a potential source of sustainable seafood in Hawaiʻi. Kawai earned his bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and Studio Art from Santa Clara University and is completing his Master of Environmental Management at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Outside of work, he enjoys diving, fishing, spending time outdoors with friends, cooking, making ceramic art, creating shell jewelry, and mastering the perfect crème brûlée.
To contact Kawai, please email khong@malamamaunalua.org.