From Farm to Market – Meet our 2025 Localicious Heroes®

HAF proudly announces the release of five new videos in its inspiring Localicious Heroes® series — shining a spotlight on the farmers, growers, and producers who are cultivating Hawai‘i’s future. This year’s Localicious Heroes don’t just grow some of the finest local products in the islands—they share their stories of resilience, culture, and community. From thriving fields to bustling markets across Oʻahu, these short videos follow the journey of fresh produce, vibrant orchids, and value-added goods as they reach local tables and touch local lives.

“These videos celebrate the deep connections between our farmers, the land, and our communities,” said Denise Yamaguchi, Executive Director of the Hawai‘i Agricultural Foundation. “It’s about more than food — it’s about identity, sustainability, and the future of agriculture in Hawai‘i.”
Shot on location across farms, nurseries, and farmers markets, each video shares a unique perspective on what it means to grow and sell local—whether it’s nourishing families, preserving cultural traditions, or passing knowledge to future generations.

A Collaborative, Student-Led Effort

Made possible with funding from the Ka Papa O Kakuhihewa Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation, this year’s series was once again produced in collaboration with Searider Productions at Wai‘anae High School. Students interviewed farmers and chefs, filmed on-site, and brought these stories to life—gaining valuable career skills while helping build public appreciation for Hawai‘i’s specialty crops.

Since its launch in 2023, Localicious Heroes® has featured 43 video shorts produced by Wai‘anae High School students, amplifying the voices of O‘ahu farmers and producers while creating hands-on learning opportunities.

Featured Heroes

Kahumanu Organic Farms

Kahumanu Organic Farms

Kahumana Organic Farms is a pioneering nonprofit rooted in Waianae’s Lualualei Valley, operating a certified organic, regenerative 31-acre farm that produces around 100,000 pounds of fresh local produce each year.

Lao Sticky Rice

Lao Sticky Rice

Lao Sticky Rice is a family-run Laotian specialty shop in Waianae, created from the owner’s desire to share the authentic tastes of her home and let people experience the rich flavors of Lao food.

Growing Creations

Growing Creations

Growing Creations is a vibrant Honolulu-based nursery offering a diverse array of potted plants—including orchids, herb and vegetable starters, flowers, succulents, citrus dwarf trees, and even sustainable bokashi soil amendments—at local markets.

Meli LLC

Meli LLC

Max Towey, the beekeeper behind Meli LLC, has been stewarding locally sourced Oʻahu honey, honeycombs, and handmade candles since founding his company in Kailua.