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DEREK KAWAKAMI is a third-generation resident of the island of Kauai, the oldest Hawaiian island, and also the third Kauwakmi to serve in the State House. Workdays include balancing mayoral duties and spending time with his wife, a middle school teacher, his two children, and his two dogs. Recently inaugurated, Kawakami has said he hopes his kids continue to see him as nothing short of “dorky dad.”
Men’s Health chatted with Kauwakmi for our recent story, “50 States of Fit.”
What’s the most urgent public health issue facing your city?
We have high levels of obesity and diabetes in certain populations and gaps in access to mental health care. We’re creating pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, bike lanes, and also open spaces for people to incorporate movement into their everyday lives. We’ve also created a new office to assisting those facing other issues, such as homelessness, workforce development, elderly care, and mental health.
What does it mean for your city to be “healthy”?
Being able to balance work, free time for oneself, and free time for one’s families. As an island state, our environment is already primed for outdoor recreation. We aim for an island economy that is diversified, stable, and has secure jobs that pay a living wage, so people can start refocusing their efforts on other aspects that can improve their lives. I make sure I schedule time for my own self-maintenance: both physically and spiritually, by incorporating mindfulness into my life.
Favorite exercise:
Surfing. It allows me to be outdoors with Mother Nature. I can’t think of another sport that is as humbling. My other passion is Brazilian Jujitsu. It’s a thinking person’s game. Brute strength doesn’t necessarily give you the upper hand.
Go-to healthy snack:
Kulolo, a Hawaiian snack made out of taro, coconut milk, honey and brown sugar.
Song to work out to:
“Stir it up” by Bob Marley.
Joshua St Clair is an editorial assistant at Men’s Health Magazine.
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