Our History and Impact
Cubanakoa's nonprofit history dates back to 2008.
Over the years, its work has included cultural and educational exchanges connecting the United States and Cuba, including:
2012 and 2013: Two cultural exchange programs brought together 27 participants from several U.S. states to explore sustainable agriculture, ancestral traditions, and cultural understanding in Cuba.
2016: Cubanakoa helped facilitate the historic arrival of the Hawaiian voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa in Havana, strengthening cultural connections between Hawaii and Cuba. The Honolulu City Council later recognized Jesus Puerto and Cubanakoa Foundation for their contributions.
Ongoing initiatives: Developing opportunities for peace building through cultural preservation, education, sustainable community development, and stronger connections between Cuba and communities abroad.
Our work is guided by a simple belief: cultural understanding, cooperation, and service can create meaningful and lasting change.
Key Milestones
2008
Our nonprofit history begins
Cubanakoa begins its work connecting cultures and supporting communities through education, service, and cultural understanding.
2012–2013
Cultural exchange programs
Two programs brought 27 participants from several U.S. states to Cuba to explore sustainable agriculture, ancestral traditions, and cultural understanding.
2016
Hōkūleʻa arrives in Havana
Cubanakoa helped facilitate the Hawaiian voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa’s historic arrival in Havana, strengthening connections between Hawaii and Cuba.
Today
Building a shared future
We continue developing opportunities for peace building through cultural preservation, education, sustainable community development, and stronger connections between Cuba and communities abroad.
Ancestral Wisdom
Our mission is rooted in the traditions passed down across oceans — the songs, crafts, languages, and stories that link the peoples of Africa, the Caribbean, and Oceania. By honoring these living customs, we keep shared ancestral knowledge alive for the generations to come.