Daughters of Hawaiʻi | Grand Marshal

Misti Evangeline Kaiulaniaʻokaʻohuaaionaali`iikekaikuaana Padilla is humbled to represent Hawaiʻi Island in honor of her mother, the Ambassador of Aloha, Kaulu Amaral. A hula professional, realtor, and founder of Ikaikamauloa Foundation, she operates OSPS Security Services alongside her husband, Kaleo Padilla. She’s a blessed mom of a blended family of ten, rooted in faith, love, and service, giving glory to Ke Akua.

Lana Halemano was born and raised in beautiful Hōlualoa, Kona. She grew up riding horses with her mother in Waiono Meadows. She also had the pleasure of riding with Aunty Barbara Nobriga, and was one of the many keiki whose lives she touched. Lana will be joined by her daughter and niece, who she hopes will continue to perpetuate the honor of pāʻū.

Drakelynn Kuʻuleialoha O Mahealani Leanio was born and raised in Kawaihae and Waimea. She is a proud mom to two beautiful girls: Elianna and Emmanaiah. She is also the owner of Brew Bella Coffee, a local coffee event business. Through Brew Bella Coffee, she hopes to continue sharing her heart for service through the motto: Believe, Love, Inspire, Seek, Serve.

Mahealani Naho’oikaika is from Hilo, Hawaiʻi. She is a professional pet groomer, and owns The Pet Parlor in Hilo. She has loved horses all her life, and got into riding because of her partner, Jason Mattos, his horse Coco, and his ʻohana: Mattos-Wana Ranch.

Melanie Moses was born and raised in South Kona. She has lived in Hōnaunau her entire life. Her great-grandfather, Charlie Thompson, established the Thompson Ranch in Kula, Maui in 1902. Melanie grew up around her fatherʻs horses as a child. This year, she rides in honor of Willie Thompson, as well as Aunty Barbara Nobriga, who got Melanie into riding in the parade again, after 50 years.

Alicia Pi was born and raised in Kona. She is a proud Christian, and mother to two sons: Stetson and Holden. She is also a grandmother to three grandchildren. Growing up, she started riding at a young age in her uncle's, Butch Gomes', arena in Hualālai. Then, intermittently road over the years, and again in 2023 at Barbara Nobriga's ranch. She loves spending time with her family and friends, as well as being involved with HPA, where her son attends.

Syleesia Jose was born and raised in Kona, with her roots deeply planted down south. She is humbled and blessed to be from a mauka and makai family of ranchers and fishermen. She is a proud mother, and spends most of her time with her little one.

Ashley Kaiao Obrey of Hōlualoa is a mother of two keiki ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi who attend Ke Kula o ʻEhunuikaimalino and an attorney at the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation, where she advocates for the protection of Native Hawaiian rights, ʻāina, and wai. She is honored to perpetuate the pāʻū tradition, representing the island of Ni'ihau.