Ma'o Oraganic Farm
We recently had the opportunity to pay a visit to the largest organic farm on 'Oahu. Ran by interns only from the west coast, Ma'o farm is located deep in Lualualei Valley. It is surrounded by rich Lualualei Vertisol soil- a unique soil only found in Lualualei Valley. During our visit we were informed of the many opportunities that the non-profit organization offers and we also got a chance to learn how to make organic, vegetarian pizza from one of the farm's most beloved employees, Aunty Teri.
Before engaging in the fun pizza making activity, we were taken on a tour of the farm by Aunty Teri and Social Enterprise Director, Uncle Kamuela Enos. They told us about the different jobs within the farm, the variety of plants, and also explained to us that Ma'o farm offers college scholarships to interns. We were impressed with all of the generous benefits offered by Ma'o farms.
We also participated in a small landscaping project where we did some weeding in front of the main building. Our main goal was to make it look more presentable for an upcoming event that would host important investors.
Our classmate Kameron cleared all of the unsightly invasive weeds!
At first, we were apprehensive about trying the different pizzas and salads that contained vegetables we had never heard of before, not to mention the fact that there would be absolutely no meat. But, once we took our first bite,our
attitudes totally changed. We all got a pan and piled our pizzas high with the healthy organic ingredients. Who knew
eating healthy could be so delicious?
As a young student, I was pleased to learn about how this local business was thriving. But I was really impressed with the different aspects of this business. It was quite evident to me that this business was more than just a farm. It was
clearly important to them that they share their mana'o (knowledge) with each of us. They taught us about the scientific aspect of things, such as where we get our food, the importance of the quality of the soil in order to successfully grow food, and the pride that comes from sustaining our Hawaiian traditions. This experience really opened our eyes to the fact that this could be a lucrative and fulfilling career. This field trip made us aware of how Ma'o farm is a model example of a business that is contributing to our community in multiple ways and has really got us thinking of our future goals, careers, and healthy living.
We also participated in a small landscaping project where we did some weeding in front of the main building. Our main goal was to make it look more presentable for an upcoming event that would host important investors.
Our classmate Kameron cleared all of the unsightly invasive weeds!
At first, we were apprehensive about trying the different pizzas and salads that contained vegetables we had never heard of before, not to mention the fact that there would be absolutely no meat. But, once we took our first bite,our
attitudes totally changed. We all got a pan and piled our pizzas high with the healthy organic ingredients. Who knew
eating healthy could be so delicious?
clearly important to them that they share their mana'o (knowledge) with each of us. They taught us about the scientific aspect of things, such as where we get our food, the importance of the quality of the soil in order to successfully grow food, and the pride that comes from sustaining our Hawaiian traditions. This experience really opened our eyes to the fact that this could be a lucrative and fulfilling career. This field trip made us aware of how Ma'o farm is a model example of a business that is contributing to our community in multiple ways and has really got us thinking of our future goals, careers, and healthy living.
Wonderful post Gal! Your reflection was great!
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