ABOUT US
Our Mission
To Preserve and Perpetuate the Culture and Traditions of Hawai'i
ʻUmeke cultivates connection to Hawaiʻi by preserving and sharing Native Hawaiian cultural traditions through intergenerational learning, storytelling, and accessible community programs. Rooted in kuleana, we strengthen identity, foster healing, and build bridges across communities.
Our Vision
We envision a future where Hawaiian culture is shared across the diaspora, sustaining a living connection to Hawaiʻi, strengthening intergenerational bonds, and empowering communities to carry forward ancestral knowledge with care, integrity, and inclusivity.
Our logo
The filled ʻumeke represents nourishment, with a human-like form emerging from it to symbolize the strength of community. The ʻupena (fishing net) pattern, woven into the design, signifies connection, skill, and sustainability.
We acknowledge that we practice the indigenous traditions of Hawai'i on the ancestral lands of the Luiseño/Payómkawichum and honor the native stewards of this land.
Ilima Kam Martinez
founder & President
Ilima, a Kanaka ʻŌiwi (Native Hawaiian) and founder of ʻUMEKE, is dedicated to empowering her community. Raised in Oceanside/Carlsbad, she developed a deep connection to her culture, leading her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with a focus on Indigenous studies at California State University San Marcos.
As Kumu Hula of Kuhai Halau O ‘Ilima Pa ‘Olapa Kahiko, Ilima teaches and nurtures the next generation of hula practitioners. She co-created the Southern California Asian & Pacific Islander Festival, uniting diverse communities to celebrate cultural heritage.
Ilima's community contributions earned her recognition as Rep. Mike Levin's Constituent of the Month in May 2024. Her family's support continues to drive her efforts and inspire her work.
Christa Lim
Vice President
Christa joins the board as Vice President after volunteering in various capacities with ʻUmeke, including at the inaugural Southern California API Festival in Oceanside. In her role with ʻUmeke, Christa focuses on assisting with development and community partnerships. As a proud member of the Kūhai Hālau O ʻIlima Pā ʻŌlapa Kahiko (KHOI) ‘ohana and ʻUmeke hui, Christa is honored to help uplift AANHPI visibility, representation, and cultural preservation. Christa is passionate about supporting local communities, environmental justice and stewardship, and public service. She previously served in leadership roles with the San Diego chapters of Young Professionals in Energy and Surfrider Foundation, and the Magnolia Project, a UC Berkeley Public Service Center initiative committed to post-Hurricane Katrina rebuilding. An attorney by training, Christa enjoys practicing hula with her KHOI sisters, outrigger paddling, and cooking but especially eating. Christa lives in Oceanside with her partner and two Chihuahua-mixes, Koa and Churro.
Tina Blas
Secretary
Meet Tina, a board member with a strong commitment to cultural heritage and community service. Originally from Virginia Beach, VA, Tina is proud of her Chamorro roots and actively participated in the Virginia Beach Chamorro community. In 2009, she represented Guam at the Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival, showcasing the beauty of her culture.
Tina holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from Virginia Commonwealth University and has supported her husband’s 14 years of Navy service across multiple duty stations, including Virginia Beach, Hawaii, and San Diego.
A mother of five, Tina has spent six years serving on the Hannalei Elementary PTA Executive Board in roles such as Secretary, Programs Chair, and Membership Chair. She also owns "Tina B's Cookies," a small business offering custom, specialty cookies.
Tina’s passion for community, education, and culture makes her an invaluable board member.
Christine Martinez
Treasurer
Christine, originally from California's Central Valley, is a UC San Diego graduate with a degree in Communications, specializing in diversity, inclusion, and justice. After 16 years in the investment industry, she shifted her focus in 2015 to support her family full-time and became a certified Health & Life Coach, helping individuals achieve their goals.
Christine is actively involved in her community, serving as the PTA Treasurer and a substitute teacher in the Poway Unified School District. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys podcasts, hiking, dancing hula, and reading personal development books. Above all, Christine values family, friends, food, and fun.
Tiffany Tom
Director of Development
Tiffany, based in San Diego since 2008, is a dedicated leader with a strong educational background. She earned three degrees from UC San Diego: a B.S., M.Ed., and PharmD, reflecting her commitment to personal and professional growth.
As a Founding Board Member and Director of Development at ʻUMEKE, Tiffany plays a key role in shaping the organization’s vision and ensuring its financial sustainability. She focuses on promoting cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion to help ʻUMEKE expand its reach and create lasting community impact.
Fluent in Spanish and with a vibrant personality, Tiffany’s appearance on Ellen's Game of Games showcases her enthusiasm for life. Her dedication to education and diversity makes her an invaluable member of ʻUMEKE.
Kaua Adams
programs coordinator
Kelli Kauakanilehua Adams is a mixed Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) author and poet from Washington state. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Creative Writing from the University of Washington and her Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Passionate about perpetuating her culture and empowering nā Kānaka Maoli living in the diaspora to return to their roots, Kaua began her journey with 'Umeke as a volunteer and is honored to now serve her community as the Programs Coordinator. Outside of her work as a writer, Kaua spends her time dancing hula, learning 'Ōlelo Hawai'i, and bending to her dogs' every wish and whim.
OUR community partners
"Building Stronger Communities Through Collaboration and Support"
