HONOLULU (KHON2) — A group of young cheerleaders is going to be representing Hawai’i at one of the most magical places on earth.
The K&C Cheer & Dance Academy of Lahaina was selected to perform at the Disneyland All-Star Spirit Extravaganza Parade.
This is more than a chance to perform for these young athletes and their coaches; it’s a chance to rally and represent the resilient community of Lahaina.
“It means everything. It is such an incredible experience,” K&C Cheer and Dance Academy Co-owner, Kisha Stewart, said. “Cici and I always want to be able to bring great opportunities to this community. We think that the kids deserve everything and anything. So it’s, you know, it’s honoring. It is a little overwhelming to think that we’re going to be on that kind of stage, but it is absolutely a fantastic and amazing thing for us. And to represent Lahaina, it means everything to us and all of Hawai’i.”
Cici Hernandez and Kisha Stewart started this cheer and dance academy to create a safe and healthy space for the keiki to express themselves, especially after the tragic Maui wildfires.
“We really just wanted to bring something back to the community for the kids. There were a lot of different cheer groups that did not come back, or the owner didn’t come back, a lot of the girls were missing being a part of that,” Stewart said. “We want them to feel good about being a part of something. This cheer and dance is very important to them, important to us. It brings us together. It gives them a sense of sportsmanship and teamwork.”
Just like the rest of Lahaina, they are rebuilding and adapting to make sure these girls continue to have a space to showcase their spirit.
“Now, trying to find a space has been quite the journey. We still don’t have our own home, but you know, we’re hoping that we get one soon,” Stewart said.
Cici Hernandez added, “It still doesn’t stop us, though. We’ll find a place to practice.”
For some of these dancers, it will be their first time traveling to the mainland. But, to make that happen, they are asking for the community’s help.
“We just love Lahaina. Lahaina means everything to us. The people mean everything to us,” Hernandez said. “We want to go out there and just represent our friends, our ‘ohana and everybody of Lahaina, the whole community. And, you know, just want to represent a little small town in Hawai’i.”
Anyone who wants to help contribute, please visit the team’s GoFundMe.