Our Team
Dillyn
Owner & workshop instructor
Dillyn was born and raised in Mānoa, where she still resides. She holds a B.S. in Natural Resource and Environmental Management with a focus on Plant Ecology and Conservation.
Her passion for native plants and lei making led her to PALAI, which aims to highlight the connection between ecological health, cultural practices, and community well-being. She is committed to perpetuating traditional lei making techniques and 'ike, and sharing her love of the practice with others.
When she's not making lei or running PALAI you can find her tending to her garden, surfing, paddling, or sailing.
Kanoe
Workshop assistant
Kanoe was born and raised in Kaimukī. She is PALAI's head workshop assistant and also assists in graphic creation for PALAI through her small business Ho'oulu Designs.
Kanoe holds a B.A. in Environmental Design, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Architecture. She is also a student designer and researcher inspired by her home, family, and community.
When she's not in the studio, you can find her dancing with Hālau Hula Kamamolikolehua, over-caffeinated at a local coffee shop, or with her dog Ihu.
Makoa
Kōkua- Online Shop
Makoa was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, and now resides in Honolulu. He holds a B.S. in Botany and is currently getting his M.S. in Botany with a focus on Ecology.
He is currently studying the reproductive biology of Loulu, to conserve and perpetuate Hawaiʻis only native palm for generations to come. His research aims to reconnect him, along with other native people, to native flora. He works in a conservation greenhouse to care for an extensive range of native and ornamental plants.
When he's not working on his thesis or in the greenhouse, you can find him taking film photos of the environment, painting with oil pastels, or identifying native plants.
