Keep Calm and Learn About Us
We are determined to create a world where everyone has access to the resources and support they need for mental health. Through workshops, resources, events, and collaborations, we strive to uplift, empower, and unite communities in the pursuit of mental wellbeing.
Co-Founder
Hawa Who
Hawa’s journey from Ghana to the USA at the age of 12 provided her with a unique blend of African and Western perspectives. Her deep understanding of cultural storytelling captures the essence of diverse narratives, enriching her approach to mental health advocacy. Through KEEP CALM, Hawa aims to leverage her experiences and insights to promote mental wellness across cultures. Her background, marked by features in Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue and significant roles in cybersecurity, contributes to the organization’s vision of a world where mental health is openly discussed and embraced.
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A Ghanaian in Pittsburgh
Co-Founder
Kaʻohele Carlos
Born and raised on Oʻahu’s North Shore, Kaʻohele’s Hawaiian values shape his empathetic leadership and approach to mental health. As the VP of Design and Research at ID.me and a former leader at Amazon, Paramount, and Fandango, he’s known for crafting experiences that intuitively resonate with users, significantly improving their quality of life through thoughtful design. His heroic venture, Secretidentity.com, combines his superhero fandom with a mission to spread Aloha and drive awareness for KeepCalm.org. By sharing wisdom gained through his own mental health trials, he empowers others to walk in light on their wellness journeys.
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A Hawaiian in Los Angeles
Our Brand
BEHIND THE Butterfly
The butterfly logo of KEEP CALM, inspired by the Diamond Butterfly brooch of Queen Liliʻuokalani, symbolizes resilience and transformation amidst adversity. The overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and the resulting trauma profoundly affected the Hawaiian people, marking a historical struggle for cultural identity. Queen Liliʻuokalani, facing immense personal and political challenges, chose to ‘KEEP CALM’ to safeguard her people against the overwhelming forces of annexation. Her enduring spirit mirrors the ongoing challenges Hawaiians face today, particularly in accessing mental health services. KEEP CALM honors this legacy by dedicating itself to providing mental wellness support to Hawaiians, ensuring they thrive despite enduring hardships.
Depression Rate for Hawaiians Compared to National Average
Anxiety Rate for Hawaiians Compared to National Average
Poverty Rate for Hawaiians Compared to National Average
Hawaiians That do not have Access to Mental Health Services
What Drives Us
Our Origin Story
KEEP CALM is the culmination of the shared experiences and visions of its cofounders, Ka‘ohele Carlos and Hawa Who. The seeds of our organization were sown from our personal struggles and triumphs with mental health. Ka‘ohele, , saw firsthand the transformative power of open dialogue and support in mental health. He navigated through his own challenges, finding solace and strength in technology and connectivity. His vision for KEEP CALM reflects a deep commitment to using his experiences to help others find their path to wellness.
Hawa’s journey into the world of mental health advocacy was shaped by her experiences growing up as the older daughter in an African home, facing intense pressures and expectations. She navigated through periods of depression and anxiety, often feeling the weight of unrealistic expectations. Her breakthrough came with understanding and embracing mental health resources, leading her to a place of better understanding and self-compassion.
“As a Hawaiian, I’m committed to spreading Aloha and nurturing mental wellness for the communities that need it the most.“
Kaʻohele Carlos
From the North Shore of OʻAHU • Living in Los Angeles
“Let’s raise a toast to those who can’t celebrate, to the unsung heroes working tirelessly, like the workers who can’t take a day off or the fishermen providing our meals. In the rush of life, let’s not forget to be kind to ourselves every chance we get.“
Hawa Who
From Ghana • Living in Pittsburgh
