94 HAWAII PARENT July/August 2025 ages 7 to 17 build strength and confidence through grappling techniques. Many instructors are former students themselves, now giving back to the community that shaped them. The Y’s dance programs celebrate both cultural tradition and creative expression. At Nuʻuanu, under the guidance of Kumu Nishi, “Hula Hui O Kapunahala” offers classes for toddlers (ages 3–5), keiki (ages 6–13), and ʻōpio (ages 14–49). The Mililani Y offers a robust hula program as well, with beginner and advanced keiki classes, wahine hula community is what makes the Y such a unique space for personal growth. Martial arts continue to be a cornerstone of YMCA youth programming. Aikido classes, available at Kalihi and Nuʻuanu, focus on harmony, mindfulness, and self-discipline for youth ages six and up. Karate, offered in Mililani-West Oʻahu and Nuʻuanu, emphasizes respect, coordination, and personal growth. Judo programs at Kaimuki and Mililani blend fun with endurance and self-defense skills, while Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Mililani helps keiki “Celebrating culture and creativity, from toddlers to kūpuna.” This historic photograph captures the 1925 Nuʻuanu YMCA Swim Team, a testament to the organization’s early commitment to fostering community and athleticism in Honolulu.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTcxMjMwNg==