Iuni and ‘One Tuaimei‘uta built a life around their culture. ‘One is a master carver, and Iuni is a historian and genealogist. Together, they ran South Pacific Island Art on Front Street, sharing their Tongan heritage with people from around the world.
"People come here from all over the world. They come to not only enjoy the beauty of the island, but the people."
When the wildfires swept through Lahaina, their home and business was destroyed.
"During the fire, we were not here physically, but our business was burned to the ground, right there on Front Street."
"Our dreams was lost. We lost everything and so it's very difficult financially, emotionally, mentally, knowing that we had nothing left."
They tried to rebuild in Florida and Utah, but nothing worked.
"There's something about the island and something about the culture that brings you back home."
Returning to Maui, they lived in their van until finding Ka La‘i Ola, a new community created for wildfire survivors.
"With all the hardships and all the problems that we faced, it makes you humble."
At Ka La‘i Ola, surrounded by others who had also lost so much, they began to feel grounded again—supported by neighbors and community.
"And I see our neighbors just kind of come together and they give you whatever they have, they don't have much, but they're there to help. And this is what it's all about."
Now, they are focused on rebuilding their lives, hoping to buy a home and restart their business.
"I hope that we can make a difference in someone else's life too."
