Soloists
Natasha Mahealani Akau-Shimabukuro
Aloha, my name is Natasha Mahealani Akua-Shimabukuro and I have been honored with the title of Miss Aloha Hula 2004.
I began my journey at the age of seven, however my passion for hula all began in 1994 when I was chosen to learn the art under Kumu Hula Sonny Ching with Hālau Nā Mamo O Pu‘uanahulu. Kumu Sonny allowed me to grow and truly fall in love with the dance and in 1995 I earned my first honor as Miss Hula ‘Oni E. Over the next few years I participated in and prepared for the Merrie Monarch festivals, which allowed me to dance in both ‘auana and kahiko divisions before earning the gracious title of Miss Aloha Hula in 2004. That moment was the pinnacle of my hula achievements and is still one of the dearest memories in my life. I am truly blessed to have been given this award and continue to hold it close to my heart.
After traveling to Japan for most of 2004, the next chapter of my life continued to bring new challenges and achievements. In 2006, I was honored to win the title of Miss East O‘ahu in a scholarship pageant while studying for my bachelor’s degree at Hawai‘i Pacific University.
This award then allowed me to run for Miss Hawai‘i where I placed fourth runner-up overall.
At the end of 2006, my fiancé and I decided to focus on our future together. We started a bakery franchise in ‘Aiea and decided to get married. We welcomed our beautiful daughter into our lives in 2008. Two short years later, when our son was born, we sold our business in hopes to focus on our young, growing family.
Currently my husband and I are both working at ‘Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa. We are happily embracing each day that we are blessed to share together—balancing work and family. Our daughter Amaya is quickly falling in love with dance and hula.
Each year, I get excited for the Merrie Monarch Festival. I am always eager to witness what the nights will hold and spend precious time with family and friends, celebrating hula that has allowed me to build a strong foundation in which I stand on today. Thank you to all who have endlessly supported my family and me throughout the years!