Keoni Kealoha Alvarez is  an independent producer, director and writer from the island of Hawai’i. Keoni has worked for multiple studios and films. He is a graduate of Na Leo O Hawaii Public Access Station and the WGBH Producers Academy in Boston. Keoni has worked the History Channel, MTV, Oceanic Cable Sport Shows and several films. His career has allowed him to travel the globe working for the broadcast department for Norwegian Cruise Line. Keoni’s recent project, KAPU: Sacred Hawaiian Burials, has been partly funded by Pacific Islander in Communications. His editing and filmmaking skills has aired on local TV channels and has been showcased in multiple film festivals through out Hawai’i. Keoni’s film projects have focused on strengthening the Hawaiian identity, preserving, practicing and perpetuating the Hawaiian culture.

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ABOUT SACRED HAWAIIAN BURIALS

Over twenty years ago, a native Hawaiian named Keoni Kealoha Alvarez found his calling when he stumbled upon a secret cave in the forest near his ancestral home of Puna on Hawai‘i Island. Inside this cave were iwi, the sacred bones of Kānaka maoli from generations past. At only eight years old, Keoni could not begin to imagine how this discovery would change his life. In 2002, Keoni’s district became the target for developers who sought affordable property on the island. Faced with a powerful, wealthy outsider who threatened to plow through the cave near his home, Keoni found himself in his own David vs. Goliath scenario. KAPU Sacred Hawaiian Burials will take viewers along Keoni’s journey in realizing his identity, heritage, and ultimately his legacy within the tradition of protecting his land for his people. Until Keoni knows what will happen to the property, he will remain the keeper of this cave to prevent this burial ground from going under.

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Films

Sacred Hawaiian Burials

Link to watch feature film - KAPU "Sacred Hawaiian Burials"

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‍Program Affiliations

Documentary Lab

Cohort Year

2009

Website

keonialvarez.com