Hawaiʻi Island’s Youth Showcase Their Musical Talents at the Second Annual HI-PAL Music Showcase

The 2nd Annual HI-PAL Music Showcase was held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the ʻOhana Court on the campus of the University of the Nations in Kona. The event brought together talented young performers, their families, community members, and supporters for an evening dedicated to showcasing and encouraging Hawaiʻi Island’s youth through music.

This year’s showcase featured nine performances, highlighting a variety of musical talent. Each contestant was recognized with a HI-PAL medal in appreciation of their participation, hard work, and willingness to share their talents on stage.

Following the performances, London West was named 1st Place winner and also received the People’s Choice Award. London was presented with medals and plaques for both honors, received a ʻukulele, and was awarded the special opportunity to record a single.

Tyrie Aono was named 1st Runner-Up (2nd Place) and received a medal, plaque, and ʻukulele. Ryley Antonio was named 2nd Runner-Up (3rd Place) and received a medal and plaque.

The showcase also featured several special performances. Na Leo Ku, winners of the inaugural HI-PAL Music Showcase, returned to open this year’s event. Judge and recording artist Henna Melody also took the stage to perform her single, “Future.”

HI-PAL extends a special mahalo to Grammy-nominated musician LT Smooth for his support of the showcase and Hawaiʻi Island’s young performers. Mahalo also goes to the University of the Nations for hosting the event at ʻOhana Court and to the Hearo Foundation for its support and contribution to the success of the showcase.

Special recognition is also extended to emcee Tommy “Kahikina” Ching, who helped guide the audience and performers throughout the program.

HI-PAL also extends its sincere appreciation to this year’s judges — Eddie O, Ala Kawaauhau, and Henna Melody — for volunteering their time, experience, and expertise and, most importantly, for providing encouragement and support to each of the young performers.

The success of the 2nd Annual HI-PAL Music Showcase would not have been possible without the support of the performers, their families, volunteers, community partners, sponsors, and everyone who attended.

The HI-PAL Music Showcase is more than a competition. It provides young people with an opportunity to share their talents, build confidence, connect with their community, and experience the value of hard work and positive achievement.

HI-PAL congratulates London West, Tyrie Aono, Ryley Antonio, and all of this year’s performers for their accomplishments.

Mahalo to everyone who helped make the 2nd Annual HI-PAL Music Showcase a memorable and successful celebration of Hawaiʻi Island’s youth.