O‘ahu fifth-grader raises hundreds for coral reef research

Azi Moses-Khoii, a fifth-grader at Hawai‘i Technology Academy, held a Trash-a-Thon to raise money for the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa’s Coral Resilience Lab. When his teacher Ms. Gillespie challenged students to develop a passion project as culmination of their elementary education, he gathered sponsorships for each pound of trash he picked up.

Azi collected 80.7 pounds from the beaches of the Hau‘ula ahupua‘a.

“I want to donate because I love Hawaiian octopuses, and I want to help them by protecting the reef,” he said in a note included with his gift.

The Coral Resilience Lab at the Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology supports the long-term health of coral reefs through research and education. Known for scientific innovation, the lab also involves undergraduate students in its projects, providing valuable research experience while benefiting from their fresh ideas and perspectives.

Protecting the reefs for future generations

Madeleine Sherman, the Coral Resilience Lab’s project manager, says, “Azi is an inspiring young man who gives me hope for the future generation. I was absolutely blown away by his efforts to raise money and to help protect coral reefs.”

Researchers are so thrilled by his project, they have invited Azi and his family to visit the lab at the Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology on Moku o Lo‘e, the island popularly known as Coconut Island in Kāneʻohe Bay. They encourage others who are inspired by his care for Hawai‘i’s marine life to participate in the lab’s community programs, such as Restore with Resilience.

“Azi’s favorite animals are octopuses,” says Sherman. “They live on coral reefs, and it’s our job now to protect their environment so Azi can grow up with plenty of octopuses in his future.”