‘OE (THEE)/PILINA (Together)
An innovative initiative rooted in cultural exchange among Indigenous nations, designed to foster creativity and problem‑solving through the integration of technology, humanities, engineering, and entrepreneurship. Activities include meaningful cultural exchanges that celebrate our identities (‘OE-Thee), strengthen unity with other Indigenous nations (PILINA-Together), collaborative workshops, co‑creation sessions, mentorship from cultural and technical leaders, hands‑on maker‑space exploration, and community‑centered innovation showcases.
Within our first two years of operation, we have collaborated with Mexica‑Nahua, Igarot, and multiple Native American nations—including Muckleshoot, Meskwaki, Seminole, Haida, Cherokee, Ute, and Cupeño—through cultural exchanges hosted on their ancestral lands. We also support local communities in Hawaiʻi, including the Philippines Consulate, the Puerto Rican Heritage community, and Japanese cultural groups such as Taiko, Anime, RC‑School, and Digital Graphics.
Sciences: Exploring scientific disciplines that support innovation while recognizing how Indigenous knowledge systems shape scientific understanding across nations.
Technologies: Learning about emerging technologies and their applications in ways that honor cultural teachings and strengthen collaboration with other Indigenous nations.
Reading: Engaging with works that highlight Indigenous innovation, leadership, and worldviews, such as:
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
The Sacred Hoop by Paula Gunn Allen
Indigenous Innovation: Universalities and Peculiarities by Peter J. Whiteley (or similar Indigenous‑centered innovation texts)
Research: Conducting studies on market trends, community‑centered business opportunities, and culturally grounded approaches to innovation shared across Indigenous nations.
Remuneration: Understanding the financial aspects of starting and sustaining a business, with an emphasis on economic empowerment that benefits and unites Indigenous communities.
Engineering: Designing and developing innovative products and solutions informed by both modern engineering practices and Indigenous ingenuity.
Electronics: Integrating electronic components into creative projects that reflect cultural values and inter‑Indigenous collaboration.
Arts: Creating art and design projects that express innovation while celebrating cultural identity and shared traditions across Indigenous nations.
ʻĀina: Promoting sustainability in innovation by grounding projects in respect for land, stewardship, and Indigenous ecological knowledge.
Mathematics: Applying mathematical concepts to problem‑solving and analysis, supporting both technical innovation and culturally rooted approaches to understanding the world.
Mele: Exploring music production and its role in innovation, cultural storytelling, and strengthening connections among Indigenous communities.
Moʻomeheu: Understanding the cultural impact of innovation and entrepreneurship, guided by traditional Hawaiian values of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and collective well‑being.
ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi: “ʻImi naʻauao” – Seeking knowledge as a shared cultural practice that unites Indigenous learners and honors ancestral wisdom.
You: Developing personal creativity, problem‑solving skills, and cultural confidence through collaboration, exchange, and hands‑on innovation.