Hawaii International Film Festival
NOVEMBER 2023
My mom and I
My mom and I had the honor of attending the 42nd Hawaiʻi International Film Festival Gala at the Halekulani Hotel in Waikīkī.
It was an unforgettable experience to attend this special event together, and I was incredibly proud to represent my Native Hawaiian culture and the important message behind my film, KAPU: Sacred Hawaiian Burials, which received an Honorable Mention at the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival.
This recognition was especially meaningful because the film represents more than filmmaking—it represents a lifelong commitment to honor our kūpuna, protect our iwi kūpuna and sacred burial places, and bring greater awareness to the desecration of Hawaiian burials throughout Hawaiʻi.
.jpg)
Keoni Kealoha Alvarez proudly brought his mother, Aileen Alvarez, as his special guest to the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival Gala. On the red carpet, Keoni and Aileen shared a memorable photograph with the president Beckie Stocchetti of the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival, marking a special milestone in Keoni’s filmmaking journey. For Keoni, having his mother standing proudly beside him made the evening even more meaningful.
From the beginning of his career, Aileen believed in her son’s dreams and supported his passion for filmmaking and directing. Through the challenges, sacrifices, and accomplishments, she remained at his side, encouraging him to use his talents to tell meaningful stories. Keoni was especially proud to show his mother that the Hawaiian culture, values, and love for their ancestors that she passed down to him continue to live through his work.
Through his films and cultural advocacy, Keoni strives to honor his mother’s legacy by protecting Hawaiian culture, honoring iwi kūpuna, and sharing these important stories with future generations. Standing together on the red carpet was more than a celebration of Keoni’s accomplishments—it was a celebration of a mother’s love, encouragement, and the Hawaiian cultural legacy she passed on to her son.
A mother’s love. A son’s journey. A Hawaiian legacy that continues.