Michael W Kyser Jr., “Mikey” is a kanaka maoli, born and raised in Kalapana and Opihikao, Puna. His parents are Georgette (Kealoha) Kyser from Opihikao, Puna,, Hawaii and Michael W Kyser Sr. from Kalapana, Puna, Hawaii. He has two sisters, who both reside in lower Puna.
Mikey grew up learning the traditional practices of lawaiʻa, mahi ʻai, music, and most of all Aloha e na ʻohana. One thing he remembers about growing up in a large hawaiian family, was the importance of Kokua, helping each other in whatever capacity you can offer. He strives to live by this moto in my daily life.
In his 30s he became an activist and has spent time on Mauna Kea as a kiaʻi and I’ve also lived in North Dakota with our fellow cousins at Standing Rock to help protect their natural and aquatic resources.
Mikey strongly believes in equal rights for our Kanaka Maoli and indigenous peoples.
He is the current Vice President of Pohaku Pelemaka, preceding his mother, the Vice Chair since 2019 and the President of Kahu ʻĀina O Puna.
When asked, What is something special about him or sets him apart from others? His response is, I am part FISH !!!