FOUNDERS

Sissy and Lincoln Kaio are the passionate force behind the Kaio Foundation, a thriving Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander organization they established in 1979. Their journey began with a small, close-knit group of five family members seeking to learn hula and quickly blossomed into a vibrant community of over 30 students within its first year.   

Sissy, born in Vallejo, California, carries a deep connection to Hawaiian values instilled by her mother, Violet Lilinoe Segovia Aguon. Lincoln, hailing from Laie, O'ahu, brings a rich understanding of his heritage, nurtured by his grandparents, Lucy Kekela and Hosea Pele Kaio, a respected businessman they honored by naming their organization Kaio Foundation. 

The Kaio Foundation is a testament to their dedication to cultural celebration. They established the world-renowned Kumukahi Ukulele and Hula Festival, fostering a vibrant community around these art forms. From 2011 to 2022, they've proudly witnessed the graduation of 16 Kumu Hula (hula masters). Lincoln, a gifted musician and vocalist, further extends their impact by sharing his knowledge of the ukulele with the senior community. 

Sissy and Lincoln's vision extends beyond their immediate surroundings. They are dedicated to supporting underserved Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders in California. Through scholarships, they empower these students to reconnect with their heritage, learn cultural values, and experience their ancestry firsthand by returning to the islands. Ultimately, this fosters a deeper understanding and revitalizes modern Polynesian culture. 

Their achievements are a testament to their unwavering dedication. Both Sissy and Lincoln have graced prestigious stages like the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival, Ku Mai Ka Hula, World Oli Invitational and the National Folk Festival. They are recipients of the Durfee Foundation award and have been recognized as community leaders in Southern California and several South Bay cities. Their artistry has even touched the hearts of the Dalai Lama, U.S. Government officials, and renowned celebrities. 

Sissy and Lincoln Kaio's unwavering commitment to preserving and sharing their heritage continues to inspire countless individuals, fostering a vibrant cultural legacy.