Hawaii Leadership Residency
Opportunities
LEADERSHIP RESIDENCY
Our main program is a 2-3 month (10-12 weeks plus a missions or partnership trip) leadership residency for young adults ages 18-24. See our landing page to learn more and apply here.
This program costs $3,950 in tuition fees per session, which is all-inclusive: lodging on the North Shore, 3 meals a day and snacks, 80+ hours of teachings, cars and gas for scheduled events, surfboards and recreational activities, and more. We keep the cost significantly lower than its value through the generosity of partners, the sales of our farm-to-market products, and our commitment to affordability.
Within the residency, kuleanas (spaces of responsibility) are appointed to every resident and we designate a few resident-alaka’i (translates to “leader”). These leaders are often second/third sessioners. We train residents not only with teaching content, but through real-life responsibility and stewardship within a community.
Residents may choose to stay for up to 2-3 sessions (a school year or calendar year). Each session is different than the last in terms of teaching schedule / content.
2026 Sessions
***NEW***
ON MISSION: SRI LANKA MAY 2026
(for HLR residents and alum)
During the second half of May, we will take a team on mission out to Sri Lanka and the surrounding region.
The goal is to fulfill the great commission and take the Gospel to the ends of the earth, supporting and encouraging the work of ministries that are already there. There will be opportunities to minister: through prayer, service, teaching and preaching, worship, and the prophetic. In Sri Lanka, Genesis Collective (our partner) sows into dozens of churches, a couple orphanages, and a recovery center.
The trip will end with the Genesis Collective gathering on May 26-29. This is a gathering of roughly 300 believers from all over the globe— we will worship, sit under teachings and trainings, and make new connections through fellowship. Check out more here!
If you’re interested, contact us ASAP.
ALAKA’I PROGRAM
The Staff-Alaka’i Residency is a volunteer (missionary) program intended for those who have progressed beyond the 3-month residency and are ready to lead with our staff.
Come spend one full year (3 sessions) with us as a leader activating younger leaders, pouring into the mission of HLR. You yourself will be trained— by Makanalani, Genesis Collective, our staff— for your own future adventures of mission and calling.
This role is an incredible opportunity for those who want a taste of vocational ministry and thrive in a dynamic setting— one moment you’re leading residents in Bible study and worship, the next your hands are in the dirt farming, the next you’re baking sourdough bread, and the next you’re diving into the logistics of a nonprofit… Here, there’s never a dull moment and plenty of opportunity to grow in God’s calling over your life.
This program is free-of-cost with in-kind provisions (mentioned below), and you will have the opportunity to support raise a salary. We have only 2-6 Staff-Alaka’i at any given time. Thus, this is a very selective role compared to the regular residency.
What is an “Alaka’i?”
Alaka’i means “leader” or “guide,” with an emphasis on service and living out taught principles. Staff-Alaka’i main functions are:
Mentor: leading residents to Jesus (through small groups, teaching moments, 1-on-1)
Service Site Supervisor: overseeing functions of farm, production, markets, and kids house
House Shepherd: providing care and balance to our communal living situation
Assistance to Directors / Coordinators: programming and hospitality support
What’s on offer?
Schedule: We provide a less-than full-time schedule (~30 hrs per week) based on residency programming.
Provisions: We make in-kind provisions, including:
Lodging: a bedroom (single or shared), and private bathroom
on a 5 acre property in North Shore Kaua’i, 7 minutes from the nearest beach and surf
Food: 3 meals per day and snacks, regular access to farm-fresh fruit and our leftover organic products
Outside employment: A Staff-Alaka’i gets connected with Makanalani Group local businesses for paid employment opportunities—at Jojo’s Shaved Ice or Chicken in a Barrel.
Support-raising: A Staff-Alaka’i has access to missionary-style support-raising resources. Their fundraising—or the opportunity to pick up shifts— provides pocket-money for remaining expenses.
Travel & Missions: A Staff-Alaka’i may be invited to lead trips inter-island, to California, or internationally.
Who are we looking for?
This is a leadership role for those who have graduated past the main residency in age and maturity. What are some markers of this?
Ideally, former residents/interns!
We are open to outsiders! but they must come a session prior to get trained on service sites
Leadership qualities
Loves God, His Spirit, His Scriptures
Demonstrates humility, obedience, and high character
Trustworthy, honest, great communication
A heart for Gen Z
Strong work ethic and stewardship
Hospitable, organized
Proactive— bold to jump in and try new things
Ideally, 23-26 years old
Has experience to deposit to residents (average age= 21).
Willing to commit one full year (3 sessions) with us, to the island of Kaua’i
***This role is not compensated employment***