ABOUT US
Our Mission
To Preserve and Perpetuate the Culture and Traditions of Hawai'i
Based in North County San Diego, ʻUMEKE is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the preservation, perpetuation and education of Hawaiian culture. Our vision is to educate local communities through cross-cultural learning, embracing an intersectional approach to work towards the equity and advancement of all marginalized and underserved populations. It is with that spirit that we share the vision with our extended Asian & Pacific Islander communities.
Our logo symbolizes the heart of ʻUmeke’s mission: nourishing diasporic Kanaka Maoli and local communities through cultural preservation, education, and connection. The filled ʻumeke represents nourishment, with a human-like form emerging from it to symbolize the strength of community. The ʻupena (fishing net) pattern, woven into the design, signifies connection, skill, and sustainability—key principles in supporting the Native Hawaiian community and preserving its cultural heritage.
We acknowledge that we practice the indigenous traditions of Hawai'i on the ancestral lands of the Luiseño/Payómkawichum and honor the native stewards of this land.
Our Vision
ʻUMEKE envisions a future where the rich cultural heritage of Native Hawaiians flourishes and is cherished by both diasporic Kanaka Maoli and the wider society. We aim to be a resource for cultural preservation, education, and community empowerment. Our vision is to create a vibrant and interconnected community where Native Hawaiians can embrace their identity, share their traditions, and inspire future generations. Through educational initiatives, cultural events, and community partnerships, we strive to foster a profound appreciation and understanding of Hawaiian culture, contributing to a more inclusive and culturally enriched world.
Ilima Kam Martinez
founder & President
Ilima, a Kanaka ʻŌiwi (Native Hawaiian) and founder of ʻUMEKE, is dedicated to empowering her community. Raised in Oceanside/Carlsbad, she developed a deep connection to her culture, leading her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with a focus on Indigenous studies at California State University San Marcos.
In 2018, Ilima became Director of Youth Enrichment at Hui O Hawaiʻi of San Diego and later Director of Culture in 2019. She is also a member of the 'Ahahui Kiwila Hawai'i O San Diego Civic Club.
As Kumu Hula of Kuhai Halau O ‘Ilima Pa ‘Olapa Kahiko, Ilima teaches and nurtures the next generation of hula practitioners. She co-created the Southern California Asian & Pacific Islander Festival, uniting diverse communities to celebrate cultural heritage.
Ilima's community contributions earned her recognition as Rep. Mike Levin's Constituent of the Month in May 2024. Her family's support continues to drive her efforts and inspire her work.
Christa Lim
Vice President
Christa joins the board as Vice President after volunteering in various capacities with ʻUmeke, including at the inaugural Southern California API Festival in Oceanside. In her role with ʻUmeke, Christa focuses on assisting with development and community partnerships. As a proud member of the Kūhai Hālau O ʻIlima Pā ʻŌlapa Kahiko (KHOI) ‘ohana and ʻUmeke hui, Christa is honored to help uplift AANHPI visibility, representation, and cultural preservation. Christa is passionate about supporting local communities, environmental justice and stewardship, and public service. She previously served in leadership roles with the San Diego chapters of Young Professionals in Energy and Surfrider Foundation, and the Magnolia Project, a UC Berkeley Public Service Center initiative committed to post-Hurricane Katrina rebuilding. An attorney by training, Christa enjoys practicing hula with her KHOI sisters, outrigger paddling, and cooking but especially eating. Christa lives in Oceanside with her partner and two Chihuahua-mixes, Koa and Churro.
Tina Blas
Secretary
Meet Tina, a board member with a strong commitment to cultural heritage and community service. Originally from Virginia Beach, VA, Tina is proud of her Chamorro roots and actively participated in the Virginia Beach Chamorro community. In 2009, she represented Guam at the Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival, showcasing the beauty of her culture.
Tina holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from Virginia Commonwealth University and has supported her husband’s 14 years of Navy service across multiple duty stations, including Virginia Beach, Hawaii, and San Diego.
A mother of five, Tina has spent six years serving on the Hannalei Elementary PTA Executive Board in roles such as Secretary, Programs Chair, and Membership Chair. She also owns "Tina B's Cookies," a small business offering custom, specialty cookies.
Tina’s passion for community, education, and culture makes her an invaluable board member.
Christine Martinez
Treasurer
Christine, originally from California's Central Valley, is a UC San Diego graduate with a degree in Communications, specializing in diversity, inclusion, and justice. After 16 years in the investment industry, she shifted her focus in 2015 to support her family full-time and became a certified Health & Life Coach, helping individuals achieve their goals.
Christine is actively involved in her community, serving as the PTA Treasurer and a substitute teacher in the Poway Unified School District. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys podcasts, hiking, dancing hula, and reading personal development books. Above all, Christine values family, friends, food, and fun.
Tiffany Tom
Director of Development
Tiffany, based in San Diego since 2008, is a dedicated leader with a strong educational background. She earned three degrees from UC San Diego: a B.S., M.Ed., and PharmD, reflecting her commitment to personal and professional growth.
As a Founding Board Member and Director of Development at ʻUMEKE, Tiffany plays a key role in shaping the organization’s vision and ensuring its financial sustainability. She focuses on promoting cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion to help ʻUMEKE expand its reach and create lasting community impact.
Fluent in Spanish and with a vibrant personality, Tiffany’s appearance on Ellen's Game of Games showcases her enthusiasm for life. Her dedication to education and diversity makes her an invaluable member of ʻUMEKE.
Donna Olaguer
Cultural Scholarship Chairperson
Donna Olaguer, a UC San Diego graduate in English Literature, has built a career in marketing and professional development. She has lived and worked globally, including roles as an ESL Instructor, reading specialist with the Hawaii Department of Education, and library media associate for adult literacy.
Donna has hosted hundreds of live educational sessions at the NAMM Show, impacting business leaders and learners. Growing up in Hawai’i, Japan, Guam, the Philippines, and Australia, she developed a deep passion for Indigenous cultures and the arts, influenced by her Hawaiian grandmother and the history of hula.
Donna is excited to support Umeke’s Cultural Scholarship Program, helping students explore their Hawaiian heritage or pursue Hawaiian-inspired learning.
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