About Us
Our Mission
The Wave of Harmony Foundation's mission is to empower youth through performing arts education and enriching community through cultural and artistic initiatives.
Our Vision
The Wave of Harmony Foundation envisions a vibrant and inclusive community where the performing arts serve as a catalyst for cultural connection, personal growth, and social transformation. We strive to create a world where every young person, regardless of background, has access to the transformative power of the arts. By honoring the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii and embracing diverse artistic expressions, we aim to empower future generations, foster creativity, and build a sustainable creative industry that uplifts our entire community. Through the arts, we envision a future where creativity, tradition, and innovation unite to inspire harmony, healing, and hope for all.
board of directors
Barry Kawakami - Founder & President
Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata - Vice President & Cultural Advisor
Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata - Vice President & Cultural Advisor
Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata - Vice President & Cultural Advisor
Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata - Vice President & Cultural Advisor
Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata - Vice President & Cultural Advisor
Keola Whittiaker - Secretary
Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata - Vice President & Cultural Advisor
Keola Whittiaker - Secretary
Gavyn Ryan - Treasure
Gavyn Ryan - Treasure
Keola Whittiaker - Secretary
Aki Kepler
Gavyn Ryan - Treasure
Tina Kai'iliponi
Tina Kai'iliponi
Gavyn Ryan - Treasure
Tina Kai'iliponi
Igniting a Legacy of Passion, Empowerment, and the Arts
Barry Kawakami’s journey is one deeply rooted in the transformative power of the performing arts and a heartfelt promise to pay it forward. His artistic path began at the age of 9 during the 1987 inaugural production of "Broadway Babes" at the Baldwin High School Performing Arts Learning Center, where he was guided by his mentor, Sue Ann Loudon. This pivotal moment ignited a visionary passion in Barry, one that would ultimately lead to the creation of the Wave of Harmony Foundation.
Inspired by this early experience and the support of mentors like Sue Ann and his grandmother, Alice Kawakami, Barry’s mission has always been to provide similar opportunities to future generations. His promise—to his friends and family—was to pay forward the opportunities that shaped his life and made his dreams possible.
The Wave of Harmony Foundation is a living testament to this promise. Through initiatives like the PlusOne Ticket Program, which has provided over 5,500 free tickets Keiki, Families and Kupuna, Barry’s work ensures that Maui’s youth, regardless of their background, have access to the transformative power of the arts.
Barry’s vision goes beyond simply creating performances. It’s about preserving Maui’s cultural heritage, supporting local talent, and fostering a community where creativity thrives across generations. Under his leadership, the Wave of Harmony Foundation empowers both keiki and kupuna to engage with the arts, ensuring that the spirit of aloha and creativity remain strong.
Barry Kawakami’s story is one of inspiration, resilience, and generosity. His promise to make the arts accessible to all is transforming Maui’s cultural landscape. Through the Wave of Harmony Foundation, Barry is building a legacy of empowerment, unity, and hope—where every child has the chance to dream, create, and shine on the stage of life.