Brand new ukulele signed by the one and only Michael Franti of Michal Franti and Spearhead!Mana Maoli, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, is known amongst the Hawaiian community for our work serving 14 schools, many of them Hawaiian culture-based charter schools. Our main focus is the Mana Mele Project, a unique music program that utilizes specially developed "hands-on" style curriculum to teach our future leaders their ABCs (Academics, Business, and Culture) through music and multimedia. This program lead us to many connections and relationships forming in the music industry, including relationships with expert ukulele crafters and internationally known artists.On March 9, Kanile'a generously gave, among other donations (including instruments for student use), this beautiful concert ukulele for one of our partner-artists to sign and auction with the intention of raising much-needed funds for supporting our Mana Mele Project.Then less than a week later on March 14, after a canoe-surf and collaboration-planning session with musicians and non-profit leaders, Michael Franti stopped by to support our students by putting his signature on this ukulele.By bidding, know that you're supporting a 20+ year effort led by Mana Maoli to facilitate individual and community healing and empowerment by fostering lifelong learners who think, feel, and act in ways that are pono (harmonious, righteous); for recognizing strengths and addressing challenges as they seek positive, systemic change in their local, regional, and global communities.And our efforts are making a difference that we can see more and more evidence of with each passing day."I've grown in confidence. I never would have been confident without this class. I feel lucky to be here. I feel comfortable. Here I can be myself. I feel happy being around people who love music as much as I do. I learned to play 'ukulele and sing a lot better. I think Mana Mele can help with my career."- Kainoa Hayes, 6th grade Mana Mele student at Halau Ku Mana Public Charter School"I cannot thank Mana Maoli enough for funding our after school music program these last 2 years. As a result, the students are able to be aware of the benefits of music education here and now, but also what kind of future is possible in music and multimedia. Learning to play ʻukulele with a group and singing Hawaiian music has enriched their lives. They learn to work effectively with others which helps with socialization skills. By attending class twice a week consistently, they learn discipline and loyalty to each other. When performing in public for others they learn confidence. When getting compliments from the audience, they gain self-esteem which helps them to also do well in school. My students are always excited about learning new songs and learning the many different aspect of music education. Being able to play well and sing well in Hawaiian, gives them pride in our culture. So Mahalo Mana Maoli for providing a beneficial music program to our ʻōpio."- Frances Victorino, Former Mana Mele Teacher at Ka Waihona Public Charter SchoolFeel free to contact us if you have any questions and mahalo nui for your interest in our auction!Shipping only within the United States.