Born on Oʻahu and raised on Maui, Maleko K.K. Lorenzo grew up connected to the ocean. From Hawaiian immersion school to voyaging aboard Hōkūleʻa, Hikianalia, and Moʻokiha o Piʻilani, his time on the water has shaped how he works with waʻa today.

Maleko has learned from his kumu, years of practice, and formal training in Honolulu Community College’s Small Vessel Fabrication and Repair program. He brings ʻike kūpuna together with woodworking and modern marine fabrication to build pieces made for use on the water.

A paddler, voyager, captain, and educator, Maleko has shared his knowledge with crews and students through the Polynesian Voyaging Society, Hui o Waʻa Kaulua, Kānehūnāmoku Voyaging Academy, and Kamehameha Schools.

Through Kaiuluakea Composites, he builds custom outrigger paddles, steering blades, and hoe uli for waʻa kaulua, along with canoe parts and repairs. Each project begins with a conversation about the paddler, the crew, and the waʻa it will serve.