Elevating Hawai‘i’s Next Generation of Musicians

The On The Rise (OTR) Program is dedicated to fueling the careers of Hawai‘i’s emerging musicians, providing the support they need to grow as professional entertainers.

Through strategic partnerships and industry resources, OTR creates real opportunities - from mentorship and career guidance to paid gigs, master classes, and hands-on experience. Artists gain valuable insight into songwriting, marketing, self-promotion, stage presence, and performance skills, helping them navigate both the art and business of music.

On the RIse Artists 2026 - to be annpunced soon!

Questions about our OTR porgram? Visit our FAQ.

On the Rise FAQ

HKF OTR Artists talk about HKF in their own words, courrtesy of HINow

OTR Anthony Pfluke - This Light on ukulele

Empowering Emerging Artists Through Action

Professional Shows & Performances

Empowering OTR Artists to thrive by connecting them with live event opportunities and organizations seeking talent.

Mentorship

OTR musicians gain guidance and support to grow, thrive, and carry forward Hawai‘i’s musical legacy through mentorship from the Islands’ most respected performers.

Masterclasses & Empower Sessions

HKF offers OTR Artists Masterclasses covering Foundation & Fundamentals, Brand, Sound & Style, Presentation & Performance, Royalty Administration

Publicity Opportunities

HKF facilitates promotional opportunities across TV and radio, showcasing upcoming performances, artist spotlights and music

GOT QUESTIONS?

Check Out Our OTR FAQ

HERE

Meet Our 2026 Graduating OTR Artists

“I was always a musician in Hawaiʻi. Now, I feel like I’m truly part of the music industry, thanks to the support and opportunities the OTR family has given me.”

Jenny Yim, HKF OTR Artist ~2025

Meet The HKF OTR Team

  • HENRY KAPONO

    FOUNDER, MENTOR, MULTI-AWARD WINNING MUSCIAN & PRODUCER

    Grateful for the love & support received over the years, Henry is honored to mentor, create opportunities, & give back to Hawai‘i’s future generations of musicians. With a commitment to nurturing local talent, he offers personal guidance, encouragement, & feedback to each artist, helping them grow both on & off the stage.

    Read Bio

  • KALA'E PARISH

    ON THE RISE & MASTERCLASS CO-MGR & AWARD WINNING ARTIST

    Kala‘e Parish is a multi–award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer whose dynamic music & performances have placed him alongside some of country music’s top artists, and licensed by major brands. Beyond the stage, he is equally dedicated to mentoring emerging talent and uplifting Hawai‘i’s music community.

    Read Bio

  • KALENA PARISH

    ON THE RISE & MASTERCLASS CO-MGR & AWARD WINNING ARTIST

    Kalena Parish, "Kalenaku," is an 8 time Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning artist and founder & Exec. Director of the non-profit Kapena School of Music. Kalena dedicates her time to supporting the local music community as the President of the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts and as a board member for the Hawaii Songwriting Festival.

    Read Bio

  • OLIVIA WASTMAN

    ON THE RISE ADMINISTRATOR & SOUND TECHNICIAN

    Olivia loves working in the entertainment industry, and is honored to give back by supporting the community that welcomed her so warmly. She is inspired by Hawaiʻi’s emerging talent and has a passion for live sound and technical excellence. She ensures that every artist shines at their very best, bringing meaning and heart to every event she’s part of.

    Read Bio

  • HAUMEA HEBENSTREIT HO

    HKF OPERATIONS & LOGISTICS MANAGER

    Haumea has extensive experience “behind the scenes” in the Hawaiߵi music and entertainment industry, as the manager & wife of the legendary Don Ho. She loves to see new talent succeed. Volunteering her time to HKF Events, & as a manager for Kapono at the Lounge, Haumea is critical to the behind the scenes for HKF & HK, overseeing all operations: event coordination, and logistics.

    Read Bio

  • ALX KAWAKAMI

    HKF BOARD MEMBER, MENTOR, AWARD WINNING MUSCIAN & ORIGINAL OTR ARTIST

    A founding member of the award-winning group ManoaDNA, Alx is a successful solo artist who helped craft a sound blending island, pop, and folk influences. Considered the original OTR, he’s been mentored by Henry since their first performance together in 2016 and now pays it forward by working with and elevating HKF On The Rise artists.

    Read Bio

MAHALO to our PARTNERS