Born and raised in Koʻolaupoko, Oʻahu, Kawena has a PhD in Geography. Her doctoral research focused on the Hawaiian Ancestral Circular Economy (ACE), examining how ʻŌiwi (Native Hawaiian)-led restoration organizations in the Heʻeia ahupuaʻa operationalize ancestral economic principles. This interest stems from an overall goal of reclaiming economy from an ʻŌiwi perspective to build capacity and install generational sustainability. She received a BA in Indigenous Resource Management, an MA in Hawaiian Studies, and an MA in Geography from UH Mānoa.
