CNHA launches ‘Hawai‘i Calls’ talent competition and TV series spotlighting local and global performers

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement has announced the launch of “Hawai‘i Calls | Advancing Hawai‘i to the World,” designed to spotlight artists, musicians, storytellers, fashion designers and other performers who can represent Hawai‘i on a global stage.

The series, hosted by Emmy Award winner McKenna Maduli, will air weekly on Hawai‘i News Now and culminate in a live finale at Ko Olina Resort on Dec. 14, 2025. Public voting will help determine the winner, who will be invited on a cultural ambassador tour and receive cash and prizes.

The competition is open to individuals 18 and older or groups of up to six people. Audition videos (five minutes maximum in mp4/mov/m4v formats) are being accepted now at hawaiiancouncil.org/auditions.

“This is our moment to redefine how the world sees us,” said Blaine Miyasato, CNHA’s chief brand officer and executive producer of the new program. “If you feel called to represent your home — send in your audition. The next global ambassador of Hawai‘i could be you.”

Each episode will be filmed at a different location, including:

• Maui – Filming June 29 at Maui Arts & Cultural Center (Deadline: May 29)
• Kaua‘i – Filming July 20 at Kaua‘i Performing Arts Center (Deadline: June 19)
• Hawai‘i Island – Filming Aug. 17 at Hilo’s Palace Theater (Deadline: July 17)
• Japan (Tokyo) – Filming Sept. 14 (Deadline: Aug. 14)
• Seattle area (Continent Calls) – Filming Oct. 9 at Tulalip Resort Casino (Deadline: Sept. 9)
• O‘ahu – Filming Nov. 9 at Hawai‘i Theater (Deadline: Oct. 9)

“Our greatest asset is our people. There is no better way to market Hawai‘i than by showcasing the beauty, talent, and spirit of our own,” said Kūhiō Lewis, CEO of CNHA and co-creator of the show. “The marketing ads about Hawai‘i may draw people in, but it’s our people who truly make Hawai‘i special.”

Judges for the series include:

• Amy Hānaiali‘i Gilliom
• Patrick Makuakāne
• Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu (Kumu Hina)
• Lehua Kalima
• Shawn Kekoa Pimental

For full rules and details, visit hawaiiancouncil.org/auditions.