Kahi Barrett Keyes is a Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner, educator, and founder of Kaleipuupuu. Raised in Kāneʻohe and Kailua, he spent nearly two decades away from Hawaiʻi before returning home. Through that return, lei became an important pathway for reconnecting more deeply with Hawaiian culture, ʻāina, and community.

A graduate of MANAOLA’s Hale Kua cultural incubator, Kahi brings together cultural practice, education, and a background in art and design. Through Kaleipuupuu, he shares lei through community education while partnering with schools, organizations, and businesses to create meaningful cultural learning, programming, and experiences.

At the heart of his work is a desire to help Hawaiian cultural practices continue to be learned, practiced, and carried forward.