Nā ʻElele o Kahikina Congressional Fellows Program

Nā ʻElele o Kahikina is a congressional fellowship based in Washington, D.C. that prepares Native Hawaiian leaders for careers in public service and policy. Fellows are placed full-time in congressional offices, federal agencies, and policy organizations, where they gain direct experience with the legislative process, public policy development, and federal advocacy. The fellowship emphasizes leadership development, mentorship, and professional skill-building, while grounding participants in kuleana and the responsibility to uplift Native Hawaiian priorities. Through this immersive experience, fellows strengthen their ability to navigate federal systems and serve as effective representatives for Hawaiʻi and the lāhui.

Requirements

• Applicants must be Kanaka ʻŌiwi / Native Hawaiian.

• Current undergraduate students, graduate students, or recent graduates interested in public service and policy.

• Demonstrated interest in public policy, government, advocacy, or community leadership.

• Willingness to relocate to and work in Washington, D.C. for the duration of the fellowship.

• Ability to work full time and meet the professional expectations of congressional offices, federal agencies, or policy organizations.

• Commitment to representing Native Hawaiian perspectives with professionalism, integrity, and cultural grounding.

Details

• Program Type: Congressional fellowship based in Washington, D.C., with placements in congressional offices, federal agencies, and policy organizations.

• What Fellows Will Do:

  • Support legislative and policy work

  • Learn how Congress and federal agencies operate

  • Assist with advocacy related to Native Hawaiian priorities

• Support & Learning:

  • Mentorship from supervisors and program partners

  • Professional development opportunities

  • Ongoing cultural grounding and connection to service to the lāhui

• Application Timeline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. Early application is encouraged due to limited placements.

• Fellow will receive a grant stipend that covers their cost-of-living expenses for the duration of the program.

Additional information, such as video/essay prompt and where to apply, can be found at this link: Nā ʻElele o Kahikina Congressional Fellows Program