About Kapa Magazine Hawaiʻi
Our Mission
Kapa Magazine Hawaiʻi is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and professional creative platform rooted in fashion, performance, community, and education. Youth-driven and values-based, we exist to educate, protect, and uplift Hawaiʻi’s emerging creatives, especially those taking their first steps into the professional world. Through programs, showcases, and highlighting voices, we create safe, ethical spaces where young talent is seen, supported, and prepared to grow with confidence and professionalism.
Why Kapa?
Kapa is a tribute, it is not to claim, it is named to honor. Inspired by the strength and legacy of Hawaiian barkcloth weaving, the name represents layers, process, and story. Just as kapa was crafted with intention and identity, our work helps youth and creatives layer their skills, shape their voices, and weave their futures. Rooted in respect and aloha, we build modern spaces where fashion, performance, and purpose thrive together.
Why a Magazine?
In a digital world, print is rare, and that’s what makes it powerful. Kapa Magazine is more than paper; it’s proof. Seeing yourself in full color on a real page gives youth a moment to pause, feel proud, and be remembered. From classrooms and care homes to coffee tables and archives, our printed pages preserve the stories of this generation of creatives, showing that they were here, and they matter. Print copies are available to youth and communities as funding allows, supported by our generous donors.
Our Triad of Pillars + a Path Forward
Community Advocates
Our community programs focus on connection, care, and belonging. From highlighting professionals in The Franc Show, to connected acts with Mālama Moments, and joy-filled gatherings like The WE Peace Day Fashion Festival, we build programs that foster intergenerational inclusion. Additional initiatives like Kapa Hard Copy and The Kapa Closet help young creatives gain confidence while giving back to the islands.
Fashion Amalgamators
Fashion is identity in motion. Programs like Hawaiʻi on the Runway (HoTR) and An Intimate Afternoon Avec… spotlight emerging designers, youth stylists, and models of all ages. Signature events like the WE Peace Day Festival and runway segments in Class Is in Session and the Back To School annual fashion show remind participants that style is more than what you wear, it’s how you move through the world.
Altruistic Educators
Education is alive with values, voice, and vision. Koʻu ʻOihana Ponoʻi teaches “the business of me,” helping students step into their power with confidence. Workshops, intensives, and on-site activations prepare youth to lead, grounded in culture and ready for the future, on the runway and beyond.
Hawaii Models & Talent Management (HMT Mx)
Through our professional partner HMT Mx, we support talent ready to take their skills to the next level.
Our Philosophy
Whether in a care home, on a catwalk, behind the camera, or in the classroom, Kapa creates space for youth to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Inspired by kapa, the traditional Hawaiian barkcloth, our work is layered, meaningful, and handmade. Kapa Magazine is more than a publication, it’s a platform, a training ground, and a movement.
Our pages give youth a tangible visual legacy: a proof that they matter.
Kapa Mag Hawaii
More than a magazine...
HELP US KEEP CREATIVE COSTS AFFORDABLE
Creatives have long been called “starving artists!”
Kapa Mag exists to change that narrative in Hawaiʻi by committing to offering a true stepping stone for designers, models, actors, musicians, and small business owners through affordable classes, mentorship, and real-world opportunities.
Our biannual magazine provides a platform for these emerging talents to be seen, honored, and remembered—on the page and beyond.
You can be part of their story.
Support a student for a season or a full year.
Sponsor a class, a program, or one of our live showcases.
Intern with us.
Donate resources or time.
Every contribution helps bring Hawaiʻi’s creative youth one step closer to the stages, studios, and futures they deserve—with your support and with the full support of our team behind them.