There are many hands who have helped to build this endeavor over the last several years. I want to acknowledge some of the people who have encouraged & supported me in creating & continuing this endeavor.
You can also access many of the incredible resources available on Maui directly through this avenue. Please explore!
My name is Paige Minney and I am one small part of the creative collective that has helped to shape ‘Io Farms Maui LLC. I am a second generation Protea farmer, born and raised on Maui, Hawai’i. Our family farm, Malolo Farm Protea has been in operation since 1986 and still produces some of the most unique Protea blooms, globally.
Since the fires our island suffered in August 2023, I’ve been inspired to reimagine myself and my offerings to my community, like many of us have. It has become my goal to serve this community as best I know how by trying to connect farmers with resources to help them sustain their craft, by encouraging folks with a strong desire to keep tending their land in profitable, fulfilling ways, and to try to help educate and inoculate our inevitable influx of visitors with a variety of knowledge in the hopes or breeding a more reciprocal tourist industry in Hawai’i.
I’ve been fortunate to continue learning from so many incredible teachers throughout my life and I am eager to share everything I’ve learned. I am hoping that Connecting folks living on Maui, as well as those coming to visit, with options to engage with local farmers, cultural leaders and educators, unique and land-based artists and creators will provide a more connected experience for all.
‘Io is the endemic Hawaiian Native Hawk. In mo’olelo (Hawaiian stories, myths, or legends), they are regarded as teachers or judges, & highly respected as they have been on the islands long before any of us. Only in 2020 were their species removed from the Federally endangered list with a stabilized population of around 3,000 birds. These birds have survived for centuries due to their fierce adaptability, resilience, & territorial ways. By nature, they are patient, curious & inquisitive observers of their surroundings, only making educated moves towards achieving their necessary goals. Being inspired and guided by this bird & its wise ways is why it has become our namesake & one of our most important teachers in this time of change & necessary adaptation.
Reference link for words from Puanani Fernandez-Akamine
