Aloha 

Meet Summer-Lee Kau’ionalani Yadao: A Voice for Community, A Champion for Change

 

Personal Background

Summer-Lee Kau’ionalani Yadao, born in Wahiawa and raised in Mililani, Hawai'i, brings a deep-rooted commitment to her community and a passion for positive change. With a rich heritage tracing back to her great-great grandparents who immigrated from Ilocos, Philippines during the plantation era, Summer-Lee embodies the spirit of resilience and cultural pride.

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Education and Professional Background

Summer-Lee holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, grounding her in the principles of compassion and advocacy. Her professional journey has been marked by a dedication to serving others, from her early days as a parent educator to her current role in housing advocacy. Through positions at organizations such as Keiki O Ka Aina Family Learning Centers and Child and Family Services, Summer-Lee has championed the rights of families and individuals, advocating for equitable access to resources and support.

 

Political Experience

Driven by a commitment to community empowerment, Summer-Lee has been actively involved in political advocacy and grassroots initiatives; currently serving as the Director of Communications for the Affordable Housing Advocacy Group, KPKOA. As a graduate of the 7th Cohort of HAPA’s Kuleana Academy and Hawai'i Children’s Action Network’s parent leadership training institute, she has honed her skills in policy development and community organizing. Her advocacy extends beyond affordable housing to environmental protection, and the preservation of Aloha 'Aina, where she serves as a board member and treasurer for Na Kia'i O Wai Hā.

 

Key Issues and Platform

Summer-Lee's platform is rooted in the principles of affordability, sustainability, and cultural preservation. With a focus on affordable housing, native Hawaiian rights, and environmental protections, she aims to create a more equitable and resilient future for Hawai'i's communities.

 

Values and Vision

Transparency and accountability are at the core of Summer-Lee's governance philosophy. Her vision for Hawai'i is one of unity, where every voice is heard, and every individual is valued. Through collaboration and innovation, she seeks to address the pressing challenges facing our communities and build a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.

 

Community Involvement and Engagement

Beyond her political endeavors, Summer-Lee is deeply engaged in her community, working tirelessly to support the houseless and advocate for the protection of water and natural resources. She is a proud member of Na Kia'i O Wai Hā, a grassroots organization dedicated to safeguarding our natural resources. Summer-Lee is also an active member of the Hawai'i midwife community, where she challenges state laws opposing midwifery to ensure better healthcare options for women. Her experience at the Capitol and her collaborations with legislators have equipped her with the tools and insights necessary to drive meaningful change.

 

Accomplishments and Achievements

In her current role, Summer-Lee has spearheaded initiatives to bring innovative affordable housing solutions to Hawai'i, including 3D printed homes and conveyance tax reform. She is a trailblazer in exploring housing cooperative options, helping residents on Kaua'i organize to form the island's first local workforce housing cooperative. On June 1, 2024, Kānaka Maoli and ‘Ewa residents, Nā Kia‘i o Wai Hā, declared victory after an environmental court judge issued an injunction to stop the “Honokea surf village” project.

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Personal Interests and Hobbies

Beyond her political pursuits, Summer-Lee finds immense joy in her roles as a dedicated mother and loving partner. Her profound appreciation for Filipino culture shines through her passion for Filipino cuisine and her steadfast commitment to preserving her cultural heritage. Simultaneously, she embraces Hawaiian cultural practices, guided by mentors in hula, oli (chants), and the art of kapa making. This unique blend of cultural appreciation enriches not only her personal life but also her professional endeavors, creating a vibrant tapestry of heritage and community spirit.