Kaina

KAPALUA — The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, Kapalua Bay recently appointed Silla Kaina as cultural ambassador.

Kaina will lead and develop new programs designed for individuals who wish to gain knowledge about the surrounding Hawaiian culture.

Developed with Clifford Nae’ole, cultural advisor at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, the new programs will aim to enrich the experience of resort members and owners.

“With Silla as our cultural ambassador, the commitment we have as a resort to our host culture is only strengthened,” said Doug Chang, general manager for The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, Kapalua Bay.

“She will work with both our ladies and gentlemen and our members and owners as we extend the wisdom and beauty of our host culture to others. Our Native Hawaiian culture is one of the many things that makes Kapalua both a beautiful place to call home and to visit.”

Kaina previously served as cultural advisor for the former Kapalua Bay Hotel from 1998 to 2007 and with Maui Land and Pineapple Co. from 2007-09. Silla joined The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences as a member experience concierge before the property opened.

With an educational background in Pacific Asian Studies, Hawaiian Studies/’Olelo (language) and Education, Kaina has applied her passion to teaching Hawaiian studies and Hawaiian immersion for the Department of Education island-wide and in West Maui for over 15 years at King Kamehameha III School.

“Having grown up in Kapalua, the stories and lessons taught to me by my kupuna (elders) give me a perspective that few others possess,” said Kaina.

“I love to share the beauty and knowledge of my culture with my community, and I am honored to be able to share it with the members and owners of The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, Kapalua Bay.”

Programs include hula dance lessons and interpretation, lei making and “Talk Story” sessions. These activities are offered daily to encourage guests to participate in as many programs as desired throughout their stay.

For more information on the resort, visit www.kapaluabay.com.