I can remember running around our home in Oakland, CA. A small green home in the 20s. Not the best neighborhood either. Neighborhood fights and mean streets kept us on our toes. My parents were immigrants to the U.S. arriving just a few short years before my older brother and I were born. It would be later in life that I would learn about the many years leading up to their arrival to the U.S. It would be the late 60s, early 70s. Suffice it to say, it is a remarkable story and one that embodies what IKUNA is all about; our story.
My parents were raised on the small island kingdom of Tonga. My father born in Ha'afeva, Ha'apai and later to Pangaimotu on the island of Vava'u. My mother from Ha'akame, Tongatapu. They would take us back when we were younger so that we would know where we were from.Though it has been years since I've returned, the experiences and memories I have of the islands will never be forgotten. Now that I am in my adult life, those trips back to islands are a constant reminder of how far we have come.
We all have stories that are compelling. Our story is not original or new. These stories of our histories; the histories of our ancestors and the sacrifices that were made in order to make a better life are common to us all. No matter our backgrounds, our ancestors had a vision. They sacrificed for those visions so that we, their future families could enjoy what we have today. The story of IKUNA and our brand is a story about progression. The ability to overcome the challenges we face and to achieve. Our ancestors did it, it is within us to do it as well.
Overcome. Achieve. IKUNA
Judd – I didn’t forget about you…those roots empower us. It motivates us to be better. Thanks for stopping by and supporting the cause.
There is tremendous power in connecting with the past. As I have gotten older and learned more about my roots, my appreciation for every aspect of my life has deepened. Our histories, shared and individual, help shape our future. How we react to our histories, shared and individual, help determine our future.
Very proud and impressed with your company and it’s philosophy. Now I just need Jan to get me some shirts for Christmas.