Derek Kia’aina Nu’uhiwa, Instructor... From 1979 through 1987, Derek Kia’aina Nu’uhiwa studied hula from the young age of 14 years old under the direction of the late Darrell ‘Ihi’ihilauakea Lupenui, Kumu Hula of the world-renowned Men of Waimapuna. After Darrell’s passing in 1987, Derek continued dancing, but this time professionally, for almost a decade.  He performed locally with the Tavana’s Polynesian Show and Germaine’s Lu’au, and then traveled abroad, both domestically and foreign, to over 16 countries.  In 1991, Derek received Jesus as his Lord and Savior, and was blessed to participate in the Hula Ministry at the Word of Life Christian Center before opening his own hula ministry, Ke Ali’i O Ka Malu, on April 19, 1994. In 1996, two promoters from Japan came to Hawai’i to invite Darrell to teach in Tokyo.  After learning of Darrell's passing, they sought out many of Darrell’s students, Derek included, to continue the teaching of Darrell's legacy of hula in Japan.  To date, Derek has been teaching in Tokyo for over 10 years.

Yoko Ku'umakanahiwahiwa Nu’uhiwa, Instructor... Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Yoko  began studying hula In 1995, along with her mother, under the tutelage of Kaleinani Hayakawa.  Later, Yoko met Derek in Tokyo at which time she began taking private classes from him whenever he visited. For the next three years, Derek and Yoko's relationship grew from that of a teacher-student to that of love --- not just for each other, but for the Lord and hula as well. Derek& Yoko got married in Hawai'i in September 2000 and are raising their two daughters in Wai'anae.

Joy Moana Leikamaha'o Toshiko Masatsuka Nu'uhiwa, Co-Mascot... Born in April 2003, Joy is currently a kindergartener at the Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Campus.  Her favorite hobby is kissing her new baby sister, Fay.

Fay Pualehuaokaipoleimanu Akiko Masatsuka Nu'uhiwa, Co-Mascot Born in February 2007, please welcome the newest member to the Halau, our daughter, Fay.