About me
Kumu Malia Nobrega-Olivera was born and raised in Hanapēpē Valley, Kona, Kauaʻi. She is a Native Hawaiian educator, kumu hula, salt maker, and multimedia artist whose work is grounded in ʻike kūpuna (ancestral knowledge).
Malia's creative practice includes lei-making, multimedia storytelling, and ʻulana lauhala, which she continues to study within a community of practice based primarily on the island of Kauaʻi. Reengaging with lauhala weaving—particularly through virtual community classes during the COVID-19 pandemic—has been an important part of her mauli ola, supporting healing, reflection, and connection during periods of personal loss.
Malia’s work centers on community-based learning and on creating spaces that honor cultural practices as pathways to health and well-being. Through teaching, facilitation, and creative expression, she is committed to strengthening pilina, uplifting hana noʻeau, and fostering intergenerational connection rooted in Hawaiian values.
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