First lady Michelle Obama will spend time in Waianae getting to know some of the youngest generation of Hawaii farmers and then treat the spouses of world leaders to their organic produce at a luncheon at Kualoa Ranch.
Along with joining President Barack Obama at official functions during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, the first lady will host her own events during her stay on Oahu. Her visit kicks off Nov. 12 at MA’O Organic Farms in Waianae, whose mission centers on "growing organic food and young leaders for a sustainable Hawaii."
College interns in the farm’s Youth Leadership Training program help run the 24-acre farm, which supplies some of the top restaurants in Honolulu as well as family kitchens across the island. The interns earn tuition waivers and a stipend while learning farming, finance and leadership skills.
"It’s such an honor for them to be able to represent Hawaii," said Kukui Maunakea-Forth, the farm’s executive director. "They want to make the most of their time with the first lady, share what’s going on in their lives, what mentorship and entrepreneurship look like on the ground. They are literally champions of food security and sustainable agriculture in our state."
On Nov. 13, Michelle Obama will treat the spouses of world leaders to some of the island’s most spectacular scenery at Kualoa Ranch, where they will enjoy a meal featuring fresh MA’O produce, prepared by chef Ed Kenney, who relies on the farm for most of the vegetables served at his restaurants, town and Downtown.
Kualoa, a working cattle ranch established in 1850, has preserved its 4,000 acres and sustained the business by branching out in new directions. It offers outdoor recreation, from the mountains to the sea, and varied terrain that has graced film and television productions from "Jurassic Park" to "Lost." White House planners looked at various sites before settling on Kualoa for the spouses’ luncheon.
"We are excited about this opportunity," said John Morgan, president and chief executive officer of Kualoa Ranch. "I think they chose us because of the sheer beauty. They want to showcase Hawaii, and this is a great way to do it. We’re trying to do our part in preserving Hawaii and being part of our community by merging agricultural and visitor-oriented activities."
On Nov. 14 the first lady will meet with military families and speak at a hiring fair for the state’s veterans and military spouses at the Hickam Officers Club. The fair, sponsored by the U.S. and Hawaii Chambers of Commerce, will bring together national and local companies with servicemen and women of all ranks.