Kumu Pōmaikaʻi Freed, of Kalihi, began studying under Uncle Alva while still a student at Hālau Kū Mana Public Charter School. During her senior year, Uncle Alva came to Hālau Kū Mana to talk to the students of a lomilomi elective class. This single meeting changed the course of her life.  For the better part of the next 7 years was spent living with, learning from, and being molded by her Kumu, friend and mentor.