Keolamaika'i is the name my mother gave me. My birth was not easy on her, nor was the knowledge of her unborn son's kidney disease. My name came to her in an inoa ʻūlāleo (a name delivered by a benevolent voice), telling her my life would be good and my outlook would be positive, despite the hardships I’d face. Keolamaika'i- life is good. 

On August 24th, 2005, I was born with that promise. My parents taught me the legends of Duke Kahanamoku and the honor of sharing his birthday at a young age. The Duke, as many called him, is a world-renowned waterman and Olympic gold medalist who shared the gift of Aloha through the ocean and water sports. He lived and traveled the world, making friends wherever he went. 

Growing up, the ocean was my playground, as land sports weren't an option with my kidney. The second I'd jumped into the water, I'd transform. My parents often joke that in another life, I was a monk seal; with my shiny brown skin, I could stay in the water for hours.

I've been surfing since before I could walk. Supported by my dad's arms, I’d imagine I was dancing on the water- it was magic. I'm happy to say I no longer need the help of my father to stand; however, I'm still just as enchanted as I was then. I love longboarding and watching the waves as surfers paint art on its faces. 

Through my love of water, it was only natural I found joy in swimming. I began competitively swimming in ninth grade; it was love at first stroke. Swimming became my life, going from two practices a week to three and, eventually, five. When I'd go on vacations, I'd continue training and make friends worldwide. Things make sense through the lens of my goggles, and my love for swimming has me returning for more.

Through the ocean, I also found junior lifeguards. I first attended the North Shore program in the summer of 2019, and while I was far from winning the daily run-swim-runs (starting and finishing in the back), I became enamored. Fast-forward to the summer of 2022, and with the strength I gained through swim team, I was no longer following the pack; I was leading it. Seeing what it's like to be a follower and leader, I know leading is where I belong, and I've worked to put myself into these positions as much as possible.

Duke Kahanamoku has inspired me since I was a child. Like me, he was a local boy with a connection to water, a love for others, and a devotion to spreading Aloha. He made a difference in the world through his passions and will forever live on in my heart.

Photography by Keolamaika’i Young | Grade 12