Pohai advances to ‘Hawai‘i to the World’ finale

Nonprofit Hawaiian Council congratulates group Pohai, who was selected as the Hawai‘i Island winner of “Hawai‘i to the World,” a televised talent competition celebrating Hawai‘i’s next generation of artists, musicians, dancers and creators.

Pohai impressed the judges during the “Hawai‘i to the World” Hawai’i Island Auditions episode Nov. 30. The Big Island group now moves on to compete Dec. 14 in the show’s finale.

With the standout performance the group gave during the audition episode already wowing judges, the finalist from Moku o Keawe are sure to lay it all out on stage.

“Each week, we are reminded of how much talent lives in our communities,” said Hawaiian Council Chief Executive Officer and co-creator of “Hawai‘i to the World” Kūhiō Lewis in an announcement about Pohai’s success. “All the performers truly represented Moku o Keawe.”

Pohai joins ʻĀinaty, Beya and Kumu Hula Troy Allen Lazaro with Hālau Ka Pā Hula o Hīnano as well as additional finalists from Hawai‘i Island and O‘ahu to be announced in the coming weeks.

The “Hawai‘i to the World” finale airs at 7 p.m. Dec. 14 on Hawai‘i News Now, with a simulcast on K5 and KHNL. It will also be streaming on all Hawai‘i News Now platforms.

“Hawai‘i to the World” has spotlighted top acts from each island during the past few weeks, with one island left before the finale. The O‘ahu Auditions episode, featuring Jake Shimabukuro as guest judge, is set to air Dec. 7 after Sunday Night Football.

Not only are the performers competing to be “Hawai‘i to the World” winner, the one who outperforms all the others receives a $10,000 grand prize.

The show also features a Fan Favorite award, determined by online voting. It celebrates the contestant who receives the most community support.

Voting for Fan Favorite remains open for 24 hours after each show airs.

“We’re proud to help elevate local artists and share their voices with audiences across Hawai‘i and beyond,” Lewis said.

Visit the “Hawai‘i to the World” website for additional information or vote for your Fan Favorite.