Kiara Quichocho

Kiara Quichocho, better known as “Kia,” is a senior majoring in Political Science at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. As a Native CHamoru born and raised on the island of Guåhan, she centers her research on Indigenous politics, decolonial studies, and environmental politics. Aside from school, Kia has a passion for va’a (outrigger paddling), swimming, and learning traditional seafaring. She is an active member of Guåhan’s va’a community through coaching and paddling in Guåhan’s national team. Kia also coaches swimming and co-owns a company that provides swimming and water safety classes. After graduating, Kia plans to continue her studies and pursue a career in environmental law.