Honoring the Life, Work, and Wisdom of Charles Kealoha Leslie








Below is a selection of features, interviews, and honors that celebrate Uncle Chuck’s contributions.


Charles Kealoha Leslie, known affectionately as "Uncle Chuck," embodies the ʻike and aloha of generations of lawaiʻa. Through his leadership and lifelong dedication, ʻIke Lawaiʻa continues to share the practices, stories, and stewardship principles that sustain our communities and oceans.

Upcoming Event: Kealakekua Bay Invasive Species Removal

📅 Sunday, May 18, 2025
📍 Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park

ʻIke Lawaiʻa, in partnership with KapuKapu ʻOhana and the Alex & Duke De Rego Foundation, is proud to host an invasive species removal event as part of our ongoing efforts to restore the bay’s ecological and cultural integrity.

 Species Targeted for Removal:
• Roi (Cephalopholis argus)
• Taʻape (Lutjanus kasmira)
• Toʻau (Lutjanus fulvus)

🌊 Note: Waters will be closed to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Read full DLNR article ›

Film & Media Appearances

Interview: Chuck Leslie on the Importance of THE ENVIRONMENT AND ACTION

Full Talk Story with Chuck Leslie | THE LAST OPELUMAN

Under the Kona Moon: Chuck Leslie

YouTube | The Nature Conservancy

Watch video

YouTube | Living Ocean Productions

Watch here

Nā Leo TV / Office of Hawaiian Affairs

Watch the episode

Honors & Awards

Community Spirit Award Honoree: Charles Kealoha Leslie

Cultural Stewardship Feature: Charles Kealoha Leslie

First Peoples Fund

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First Nations Development Institute

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