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 moreand apply here.

This program costs $4,450 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, 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.

Upcoming Sessions

  • Fall 2026: September 14th to December 2nd

  • Spring 2027: January 18th to April 7th

  • Summer 2027: May 24th to August 11th

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.

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***