Remembering Lahaina, Connecting Across Islands

In August, Pacific Gateway Center staff from Oʻahu and Maui visited the Lahaina memorial together to remember those lost and reflect on the community’s experiences since the fires.

During the visit, Soakai Taufa, who was a PGC client after the fires, shared the story behind his work on the memorial and the Teardrop of Lahaina sculpture. A craftsman, Soakai helped build the white crosses that became part of the community-created memorial above the Lahaina Bypass in the days following the tragedy. His commitment continued through caring for the site and creating a lasting tribute to those lost.

Created around the fires’ first anniversary in 2024, the Teardrop of Lahaina features a large teardrop surrounding a heart that illuminates. With support from five Maui Rotary clubs and friends, Soakai brought his vision to life as an expression of remembrance, healing, and hope. He wanted the sculpture to honor those who died while offering comfort and encouragement to the community. Standing beside Soakai in front of his creation, PGC staff had the opportunity to hear directly from the person whose care and craftsmanship helped shape this place of remembrance.

The visit also held deep meaning for PGC’s Maui team. Several staff members from Lahaina were themselves clients after the fires, having lost their homes and their jobs at businesses that were destroyed. Their experiences brought a personal understanding to their work supporting others navigating loss and recovery.

Following the visit, the PGC group gathered for lunch and talk story at Launiupoko Beach Park. For those who usually work islands apart, the gathering offered valuable time to connect in person, share experiences, and strengthen the relationships behind PGC’s work.