Ilima Kam Martinez is a proud Kanaka ʻŌiwi (Native Hawaiian) raised in Oceanside and Carlsbad. She is the founder and president of ʻUMEKE, a nonprofit dedicated to the cultural empowerment of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) communities. A graduate of California State University San Marcos with a BA in Anthropology and a focus on Indigenous studies, Ilima’s work centers on Indigenous cultural revitalization.

At CSUSM, she conducted collaborative fieldwork with Native Hawaiian, Kumeyaay, and Oaxacan communities. Ilima currently serves as Kumu Hula of Kūhai Hālau O ʻIlima Pā ʻŌlapa Kahiko, teaching and uplifting the next generation of hula practitioners. She has also held leadership roles with Hui O Hawaiʻi of San Diego and co-founded the Southern California Asian & Pacific Islander Festival.

In May 2024, Ilima was honored as Rep. Mike Levin’s Constituent of the Month for her impactful community leadership. Guided by her family, mentors, and cultural lineage, she continues to strengthen communities through culture, education, and advocacy.