“Hawai‘i Calls | Advancing Hawai‘i to the World” A Nationwide Search for Global Cultural Ambassadors

KAPOLEI, Hawai‘i--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA) has announced the launch of Hawai‘i Calls | Advancing Hawai‘i to the World — a first-of-its-kind televised talent competition and cultural initiative created to uplift the voices, talents, and stories of those who can authentically represent Hawai‘i on a global stage.

Open to individuals and groups (up to six people) ages 18 and older, the competition seeks artists, storytellers, musicians, comedians, fashion designers, and other individuals whose talents reflect the depth and beauty of Hawai‘i. Audition videos (up to 5 minutes) can be submitted now at www.hawaiiancouncil.org/auditions.

Filmed across six locations — Maui, Hawai‘i Island, Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Seattle, and Tokyo — Hawai‘i Calls | Advancing Hawai‘i to the World will be televised on Hawai‘i News Now and streamed (details to be announced). The series leads up to a live finale at the Ko Olina Resort on Oʻahu on December 14, 2025. Winners will be awarded cash and prizes and invited to join a global cultural ambassador tour showcasing the talent and spirit of Hawai‘i to the world.

“This series is about telling our own story — not one shaped by others, but one grounded in truth, lived experience, and cultural pride,” said Blaine Miyasato, CNHA chief brand officer and executive producer. “If we want the world to learn about the real Hawai‘i, it has to come from those who know it best.”

With more than half of all Native Hawaiians now living outside of Hawai‘i, according to the most recent U.S. Census, CNHA created the Continent Calls episode to honor the diaspora. This edition will be filmed on October 9, 2025, the final day of CNHA’s 2025 Native Hawaiian Convention in Tulalip, Washington.

“Our greatest asset is our people,” said Kūhiō Lewis, CEO of CNHA and co-creator of the show. “There’s no better way to market Hawai‘i than by showcasing the talent, heart, and spirit of those who live it every day. The marketing ads about Hawai‘i may draw people in, but it’s our people who truly make Hawai‘i special.”

A special international episode will be filmed in Tokyo. The winner of Japan Calls will be invited to perform in the live finale and appearances in Japan.

Auditions are now open. Submission deadlines and filming dates vary by location. For full rules, waivers, and the latest updates, visit www.hawaiiancouncil.org/auditions.

“No matter where you live, if Hawai‘i lives in you — we want to see you. This is our moment to redefine how the world sees us,” added Miyasato.

Each location will feature a guest judge alongside the following:

• Amy Hānaiali‘i Gilliom – Six-time GRAMMY® nominee, 18-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano winner
• Patrick Makuakāne – MacArthur Fellow, kumu hula, cultural innovator
• Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu (Kumu Hina) – Emmy® winner, composer, cultural ambassador
• Lehua Kalima – Founding member of Nā Leo Pilimehana, award-winning musician
• Shawn Kekoa Pimental – GRAMMY®-nominated producer, 11-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano winner

The show will be hosted by McKenna Maduli, Emmy®-winning host of Talk Story with McKenna Maduli.

About the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement:

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA) is a member-based nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the cultural, economic, and community development of Native Hawaiians. CNHA provides a range of services, including community programs, cultural education, and advocacy efforts, to promote the well-being of Hawaiʻi’s native people. For more information visit www.hawaiiancouncil.org.