Our Hānai ‘Ohana
Family, or ‘ohana, is core in Hawaiian culture. Hānai members of the family are those who are fully included, but may not be tied by blood, such as those who are formally or informally fostered, adopted, or simply included. These relationships impart knowledge, values, and wisdom.
Natasha Marie Kapuamaeole Gourlay ~ Cultural Consultant / Advisor
(She/Her/Hers)
My name is Natasha Marie Kapuamaeole Gourlay and I am humbled to be the cultural consultant / advisor for La’akea Grief Support. I am a Native Hawaiian woman, in my last semester of nursing school. Inspired by my rich Hawaiian heritage, I have a solid foundation in natural farming, traditional healing practices, with a holistic approach to wellness. As the owner of Māla Māmā Farm, I combine ancient Hawaiian wisdom with modern health practices, focusing on sustainability and natural healing. My passion for health, wellness and healing is rooted in addressing the whole person - body, mind, and spirit. I am deeply committed to integrating these values as I serve La’akea Grief Support and those we support.
As a cultural consultant / advisor, I hope to offer valuable insights that will assist Laʻakea Grief Support in ensuring it’s services are aligned with Hawaiian traditions and cultural practices. By gently guiding the organization in creating culturally respectful and meaningful framework, I hope to help foster an environment that honors and perpetuates Hawaiian values while supporting those navigating loss with sensitivity and authenticity.
Matthew Kam ~ Graphic/Logo Design
(He/Him/His)
My name is Matthew Kam and I recently had the honor of crafting the logo for La'akea. My goal was to encapsulate the essence of comfort and simplicity infused with the uplifting spirit of Hawai’i. Inspired by the graceful lines of the Hawaiian canoe, our design serves as a visual metaphor for stable and reliable navigation through the ebbs and flows of life, especially during challenging times.
As a proud local of our islands, I aim to bring a genuine touch of the aloha spirit to my work, staying true to my roots and offering a visual sanctuary for healing and connection to those navigating the intricate journey of loss.
Being a part of the La'akea Grief Support team is a true pleasure. Our team is honored to provide the support you are seeking as you navigate this journey.
May our collective efforts offer you solace and comfort on your path toward healing.
About Our Logo
The ancient art of Polynesian wayfinding across vast oceans in voyaging canoes is a means of orientation using only the sun, stars and natural cues. Our sail was modeled after Hawai’i’s treasured double-hull sailing canoe, Hōkūle’a, as she was sailing home to the sacred shores of Kualoa.
Our logo embodies a Hawaiian wa’a (canoe) with a full sail wayfinding home, holding a place for one’s ancestors to accompany and provide guidance from the manu (front most part) of the wa’a. The pilina (relationship) between the living and those that have passed is a beautiful way to harness the powerful energy of each individual’s lineage, shining a light on the path forward when we struggle to see.