With more than 30 years of hula experience, Kennly Asato brings a deep passion for Hawaiian culture, tradition, and community connection to everything she does. Originally from Honolulu, Hawai‘i, she has trained under renowned kumu hula including Coline Aiu of Hālau Hula O Maiki, Ed Collier of Hālau O Nā Pua Kukui, Kunewa Mook of Hula Hālau ‘O Kamuela, and Eileen Mumm of Hālau Hokunani. For Kennly, hula is more than dance — it is a meaningful way to honor, preserve, and share her culture with others.
In addition to her cultural leadership, Kennly has played an instrumental role in HAPPEN, serving as the organization’s inaugural Mentorship Lead and now as its Executive Sponsor. Professionally, she serves as the Co-Interim Assistant Director for the Housing Division at the Washington State Department of Commerce, where she continues to lead with compassion, mentorship, and a strong commitment to community.
We are honored and excited to have Kennly share her talents, leadership, and cultural knowledge with us, and we look forward to celebrating and learning from her.