Under the Helmet

Under the Helmet Initiative Summary

Ka Makani Kaili Koa, through its Under the Helmet initiative, is steadfast in its commitment to fostering the personal, professional, and cultural development of youth and communities. Our programs seamlessly integrate Native Hawaiian cultural values with STREAMY (Sciences, Technologies, Reading, Research, Remuneration, Engineering, Electronics, Arts, ‘Aina, Mathematics, Mele, Mo’omeheu, and You) education, providing a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.

Each program is meticulously designed to inspire, educate, and empower participants by promoting teamwork, innovation, cultural heritage, sustainability, and ethical decision-making. Our aim is to cultivate a nurturing environment where students can develop practical skills, explore career pathways, and connect deeply with their cultural roots, thereby contributing to the growth and resilience of our communities.

E-Sports

Description: Combines competitive gaming with educational components. Participants develop skills in teamwork, strategy, and digital literacy while also learning about the business and culture of e-sports.

Sciences: Exploring the physiology of gamers, including reaction times and cognitive function.
Technologies: Learning about the hardware and software used in gaming setups.
Reading:
- “Reality Is Broken: Why Games Make Us Better and How They Can Change the World” by Jane McGonigal
- “The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses” by Jesse Schell
Research:
- Conducting studies on gaming trends and e-sports market analysis.
- “Handbook of Esports Medicine: Clinical Aspects of Competitive Video Gaming” by Lindsay Wells, et al.
Remuneration: Understanding sponsorships, prize money, and career opportunities in e-sports.

Engineering: Designing and optimizing gaming equipment.
Electronics: Building and maintaining gaming PCs.
Arts: Creating game-related art and media.
‘Aina: Promoting sustainable gaming practices.
Mathematics: Applying statistical analysis to game performance.
Mele: Integrating music production for game soundtracks.
Mo’omeheu: Examining the cultural impact of e-sports globally, including indigenous gaming traditions.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Pā’ani” – Games or sports.

You: Developing personal branding and self-presentation skills.

Hawaii Space Voyagers

Description: An aerospace education program that explores space science and technology. Students engage in projects related to rocketry, satellite design, and space exploration, fostering interest in STEAM fields among underrepresented ethnic and gender demographics. Specific activities include:

Sciences: Studying astrophysics and planetary science.
Technologies: Learning about satellite and spacecraft technologies.
Reading:
- “Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry” by Neil deGrasse Tyson
- “Rocket Boys” by Homer Hickam
Research:
- Conducting experiments related to space conditions.
- “The Space Environment: Implications for Spacecraft Design” by Alan C. Tribble
Remuneration: Understanding careers in aerospace and potential earnings.
Engineering: Designing and building model rockets and satellites.

Electronics: Working with sensors and communication devices.
Arts: Creating space-themed art and design projects.
‘Aina: Studying Earth observation and its impact on environmental science.
Mathematics: Applying complex calculations in orbital mechanics.
Mele: Exploring music inspired by space and science fiction.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding the cultural significance of space exploration, including traditional Hawaiian navigation.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Hōkū” – Star.
You: Developing personal and professional skills for future careers in aerospace.

INdigenous Games Design

Description: Combines indigenous cultural elements with game design principles. Participants learn to create educational and entertaining games that reflect their cultural heritage and teach important concepts. Activities include:

Sciences: Studying the cognitive impact of educational games.
Technologies: Using game development software and tools.
Reading:
- “Designing Games: A Guide to Engineering Experiences” by Tynan Sylvester
- “Critical Play: Radical Game Design” by Mary Flanagan
Research:
- Conducting market research for game development.
- “The Games Black Girls Play: Learning the Ropes from Double-Dutch to Hip-Hop” by Kyra D. Gaunt
Remuneration: Understanding the business side of game design.

Engineering: Developing game mechanics and programming.
Electronics: Integrating electronic components in game development.
Arts: Creating game art and animations.
‘Aina: Incorporating environmental themes in game design.
Mathematics: Applying algorithms and logic in game programming.
Mele: Developing soundtracks and sound effects for games.
Mo’omeheu: Infusing cultural heritage and stories into games, reflecting indigenous narratives and values.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Moʻolelo” – Story or tradition.
You: Building a portfolio and developing personal creativity.

Kaimiloa Sea Scout 5

Description: A maritime-focused Sea Scout sister program to Queen’s Own Troop 5 that teaches boating, navigation, and maritime skills. It includes lessons on Polynesian wayfinding traditions and instills aloha and malama kai through:

Sciences: Studying marine biology and oceanography.
Technologies: Learning about modern navigation tools and techniques.
Reading:
- “The Starship and the Canoe” by Kenneth Brower
- “The Last Navigator” by Steve Thomas
Research:
- Conducting studies on marine ecosystems.
- “Oceanography and Marine Biology: An Annual Review” edited by R.N. Gibson, R.J.A. Atkinson, and J.D.M. Gordon
Remuneration: Understanding careers in maritime industries.

Engineering: Designing and building model boats.
Electronics: Using electronic navigation and communication devices.
Arts: Creating maritime-themed art and crafts.
‘Aina: Promoting ocean conservation and sustainability.
Mathematics: Applying mathematical concepts in navigation and sailing.
Mele: Exploring traditional sea shanties and maritime music.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding Polynesian navigation and seafaring heritage, including traditional Hawaiian practices.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Hoe” – Paddle.
You: Developing leadership and teamwork skills.

Leleihoku Guards

Description: A Hawaiian Kingdom era historic cavalry guard youth leadership program that combines leadership training with cultural education. It includes physical training, drills, and education about Hawaiian military history and traditions. Activities involve:

Sciences: Studying human physiology and fitness.
Technologies: Learning about historical and modern cavalry equipment.
Reading:
- “Kingdom in the Sea” by Peter H. Buck
- “Hawaiian Kingdom 1874–1893, The Kalakaua Dynasty” by Ralph S. Kuykendall
Research:
- Conducting studies on historical battles and tactics.
- “War and Society in Ancient Mesoamerica” by Ross Hassig
Remuneration: Understanding career opportunities in military and leadership roles.
Engineering: Maintaining and caring for cavalry equipment.

Electronics: Using communication devices in training exercises.
Arts: Creating reenactment costumes and props.
‘Aina: Emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship.
Mathematics: Applying strategic calculations in drills and maneuvers.
Mele: Exploring traditional military music and chants.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding Hawaiian military traditions and values, including the significance of the Leleihoku Guards in Hawaiian history.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Pūʻali koa” – Warrior or soldier.
You: Developing leadership and public speaking skills.

Makua Ho'okipa

Description: A program dedicated to inter-generational knowledge transfer, where kupuna (elders) are re-ignited to share cultural wisdom and practices with younger generations. Activities include:

Sciences: Studying the health benefits of intergenerational learning.
Technologies: Using digital tools to record and preserve stories.
Reading:
- “Hawaiian Legends of Dreams” by Caren Loebel-Fried
- “Native Planters in Old Hawaii: Their Life, Lore, and Environment” by E.S. Craighill Handy and Elizabeth Green Handy
Research:
- Conducting studies on the impact of cultural education.
- “Cultural Memory and Biodiversity” by Virginia D. Nazarea
Remuneration: Understanding the economic value of cultural preservation.

Engineering: Designing multimedia presentations and exhibits.
Electronics: Recording and archiving oral histories.
Arts: Creating visual and performing arts based on cultural themes.
‘Aina: Emphasizing the importance of land and nature in cultural practices.
Mathematics: Applying statistical analysis to cultural studies.
Mele: Exploring traditional songs and music.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding the cultural heritage of indigenous practices, including the role of kupuna in Hawaiian society.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Kupuna” – Elder.
You: Developing personal connections to cultural roots and identity.

Na Koa O Ka Moi

Description: A Hawaiian Kingdom era historic infantry guard youth leadership program that combines leadership training with cultural education. It includes physical training, drills, and education about Hawaiian military history and traditions. Activities include:

Sciences: Studying human physiology and fitness.
Technologies: Learning about historical and modern infantry equipment.
Reading:
- “Kingdom in the Sea” by Peter H. Buck
- “Hawaiian Kingdom 1874–1893, The Kalakaua Dynasty” by Ralph S. Kuykendall
Research:
- Conducting studies on historical battles and tactics.
- “War and Society in Ancient Mesoamerica” by Ross Hassig
Remuneration: Understanding career opportunities in military and leadership roles.
Engineering: Maintaining and caring for infantry equipment.

Electronics: Using communication devices in training exercises.
Arts: Creating reenactment costumes and props.
‘Aina: Emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship.
Mathematics: Applying strategic calculations in drills and maneuvers.
Mele: Exploring traditional military music and chants.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding Hawaiian military traditions and values, including the significance of Na Koa O Ka Moi in Hawaiian history.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Koa” – Warrior.
You: Developing leadership and public speaking skills.

Panagadal Hoʻoulu

Description: Inspired by the work and legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal in Dapitan during his exile, this program focuses on community-based agricultural education and sustainable living. Participants learn about food security, indigenous crops, and the cultural significance of food production through:

Sciences: Studying plant biology and sustainable agriculture.
Technologies: Using modern farming equipment and techniques.
Reading:
- “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo” by Jose Rizal
- “A Field Guide to Tropical Plants of Asia” by David Middleton
Research:
- Conducting studies on crop yields and soil health.
- “The Living Soil Handbook: The No-Till Grower’s Guide to Ecological Market Gardening” by Jesse Frost
Remuneration: Learning about the economics of farming and agriculture.
Engineering: Designing efficient irrigation systems and farm layouts.

Electronics: Implementing sensor technology for precision farming.
Arts: Creating artwork inspired by agricultural practices.
‘Aina: Emphasizing the importance of land stewardship and sustainability.
Mathematics: Applying statistical analysis to farming data.
Mele: Exploring traditional songs related to farming and harvest.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding the cultural heritage associated with indigenous crops, including Filipino and Hawaiian traditions.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Mahiʻai” – Farmer.
You: Developing personal gardening skills and self-sufficiency.

‘OE (THEE)

Description: An innovative initiative designed to foster innovation, creativity, and problem-solving through the integration of technology, humanities, engineering, and entrepreneurship. Activities include:

Sciences: Studying various scientific disciplines related to innovation.
Technologies: Learning about emerging technologies and their applications.
Reading:
- “The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail” by Clayton M. Christensen
- “Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future” by Peter Thiel
Research:
- Conducting studies on market trends and business opportunities.
- “Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses” by Eric Ries
Remuneration: Understanding the financial aspects of starting and running a business.

Engineering: Designing and developing innovative products and solutions.
Electronics: Integrating electronic components in innovative projects.
Arts: Creating art and design projects that reflect innovative ideas.
‘Aina: Promoting sustainability in innovation.
Mathematics: Applying mathematical concepts in problem-solving and analysis.
Mele: Exploring music production and its role in innovation.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding the cultural impact of innovation and entrepreneurship, including traditional Hawaiian values of ingenuity and resourcefulness.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “ʻImi naʻauao” – Seeking knowledge.
You: Developing personal skills in creativity and problem-solving.

Queen's Own Scout Troop 5

Description: A historical scouting program patronized by Queen Liliuokalani that incorporates Hawaiian cultural elements into traditional scouting activities. It focuses on outdoor skills, community service, and cultural education through:

Sciences: Studying environmental science and conservation.
Technologies: Using modern scouting tools and techniques.
Reading:
- “The Hawaiians of Old” by Betty Dunford
- “Hawaiian Legends of the Guardian Spirits” by Caren Loebel-Fried
Research:
- Conducting studies on indigenous practices and their applications.
- “Native Planters in Old Hawaii: Their Life, Lore, and Environment” by E.S. Craighill Handy and Elizabeth Green Handy
Remuneration: Understanding the economic value of community service.

Engineering: Building and maintaining scouting equipment.
Electronics: Using electronic devices in scouting activities.
Arts: Creating art and crafts based on Hawaiian culture.
‘Aina: Promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Mathematics: Applying mathematical concepts in outdoor navigation.
Mele: Exploring traditional Hawaiian music and chants.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding Hawaiian cultural traditions and values, including the significance of Queen Liliuokalani’s legacy.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Kuleana” – Responsibility.
You: Developing personal leadership and teamwork skills.

RC All Terrain Academy

Description: Focuses on off-road remote-controlled vehicle design and operation while incorporating aloha and malama ‘aina practices and principles. Activities include:

Sciences: Studying the physics of vehicle dynamics and design.
Technologies: Using modern tools for vehicle design and construction.
Reading:
- “The Art of Racing in the Rain” by Garth Stein
- “The Science of Motorsport” by David Coulthard
Research:
- Conducting studies on terrain navigation and vehicle performance.
- “Automotive Engineering Fundamentals” by Richard Stone and Jeffrey K. Ball
Remuneration: Understanding the economics of vehicle design and production.
Engineering: Designing and building off-road vehicles.

Electronics: Integrating electronic components in vehicle control systems. Lithium Ion battery technology and safety.
Arts: Creating vehicle designs, functional and non-functional aesthetics.
‘Aina: Emphasizing environmental sustainability in vehicle design.
Mathematics: Applying mathematical concepts in vehicle dynamics and control.
Mele: Exploring music related to vehicle culture.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding the cultural impact of vehicle design and usage, including traditional Hawaiian values of resourcefulness and respect for the land.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Mālama” – To take care of.
You: Developing personal skills in engineering and problem-solving.

RC Drift School

Description: A program that combines the principles of STEAM education with the excitement of remote-controlled car drifting. Activities include:

Sciences: Studying the physics of drifting and vehicle control.
Technologies: Using modern tools for vehicle design and construction.
Reading:
- “The Physics of Racing” by Brian Beckman
- “Drifting: Sideways from Japan to America” by Antonio Alvendia
Research:
- Conducting studies on vehicle performance and control.
- “Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics” by Thomas D. Gillespie
- Japanese sub-culture influence in modern motorsports. (Initial d)
Remuneration: Understanding the economics of vehicle design and production.

Engineering: Designing and building drift cars.
Electronics: Integrating electronic components in vehicle control systems. Lithium Ion battery technology and safety.
Arts: Creating vehicle designs and aesthetics. Graphic design for logos and sponsorships.
‘Aina: Emphasizing environmental sustainability in vehicle design.
Mathematics: Applying mathematical concepts in vehicle dynamics and control.
Mele: Exploring music related to vehicle culture.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding the cultural impact of vehicle design and usage, including traditional Hawaiian values of resourcefulness and respect for the land.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “Mālama” – To take care of.
You: Developing personal skills in engineering and problem-solving.

Robotics

Description: Engages students in the design, building, and programming of robots. It encourages problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation through activities that include:

Sciences: Studying the principles of robotics and automation.
Technologies: Using modern tools for robot design and programming.
Reading:
- “Robot Programming: A Guide to Controlling Autonomous Robots” by Cameron Hughes and Tracey Hughes
- “Introduction to Robotics: Mechanics and Control” by John J. Craig
Research:
- Conducting studies on robot performance and applications.
- “Robot Ethics 2.0: From Autonomous Cars to Artificial Intelligence” edited by Patrick Lin, Ryan Jenkins, and Keith Abney
Remuneration: Understanding the economics of robot design and production.

Engineering: Designing and building robots.
Electronics: Integrating electronic components in robot control systems.
Arts: Creating robot designs and aesthetics.
‘Aina: Emphasizing environmental sustainability in robot design.
Mathematics: Applying mathematical concepts in robot control and programming.
Mele: Exploring music related to robotics and technology.
Mo’omeheu: Understanding the cultural impact of robotics and automation, including the role of innovation in Hawaiian culture.
- Olelo Hawai’i: “ʻImi naʻauao” – Seeking knowledge.
You: Developing personal skills in engineering and problem-solving.