CHOW 2026 Opening Keynote (Day Two) - Nainoa Thompson

Speaker: Nainoa Thompson, CEO, Polynesian Voyaging Society Explorer, environmentalist, master navigator, cultural revivalist, educator, storyteller: Nainoa Thompson has led the rediscovery and revival of the ancient Polynesian art of navigation. Through his voyaging, teaching and engagement, he has opened a global, multigenerational dialogue on the importance of sustaining ocean resources and maritime heritage. Nainoa has dedicated his life to exploring the ocean, maintaining the health of the planet and ensuring that the ancient marine heritage and culture of Polynesia remain vibrant into the future. Solomon Pili Kahoʻohalahala joined Nainoa Thompson onstage for an ‘oli (chant).