Nainoa Thompson

navigator

Nainoa Thompson is a celebrated Hawaiian navigator and cultural practitioner, recognized for his expertise in traditional Polynesian navigation techniques and his efforts to preserve and promote Hawaiian culture. As the president of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, he played a pivotal role in the revival of traditional wayfinding by sailing the double-hulled voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa across the Pacific. Thompson was in the news for his involvement in the 'SOS Océan' summit in Paris, where he advocated for ocean conservation and shared insights on the importance of indigenous knowledge in addressing environmental challenges.