Before we began making products in 2005, my Hawaiian sister (alchemist and creator of Ola products) and I took a deep dive into Hawaiian medicinal plants. Based on years of investigation, Ola beauty and wellness products were the outcome of passionate research and discovery. Using ingredients grown and sustainably harvested in Hawai'i our small business began.
In 2010 we met Kumu Dane Silva. An avid scholar, master Lomilomi practitioner and expert in the use of Lāʻau lapaʻau, our paths were aligned. We became fast friends and colleagues. Kumu Dane became our mentor and guide, not only in the use of plants in healing the body and mind, but as a cultural advisor. His commitment to Hawaiian culture also informed his insights to the future. He knew the path to the health of the planet was rooted in ancient wisdom and he was passionate about what his culture had to contribute to that stewardship.
“Healing is a Spiritual Gift that starts with yourself”
~ D.K Silva
Kumu Dane embodied Aloha. He was rooted in tradition, and yet he understood that in order to perpetuate Hawaiian culture, we must find ways to share it, and translate it into our modern world.
Kumu left the planet on the day of the Mauna Loa eruption, in sync with the flow of life and ready for his next big adventure. He was a conduit of wisdom and knowledge that flowed through him like that powerful life force that is Pele. When I said good bye I told him we were not done however. I thanked him and asked for his continued guidance from wherever he is.
Mahalo nui loa and Aloha o’e, Dane Kaohelani Silva. We will always remember you and be grateful for your teaching. The world has much to learn from Hawaiian Culture, and we are honored to play a small part in it.