David Ha’alilio Lau, better known as Kawika, is a keynote speaker, facilitator, and educator who is passionate about adding value to your leadership journey.
Kawika has found purpose in sharing philosophy, empirical data, and personal stories to inspire and illuminate a path for people to lead full and complete lives, and flourish forward after the storms of life hit.
Kawika holds several professional certifications and teaches in areas that include: DISC Model Train the Trainer, Motivators Model Train the Trainer, and Tactical Medical Instructor, Physical Fitness and Wellness Coordinator, and Leadership Concepts. A former senior instructor for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center’s Leadership Institute and Instructor of the Year, Kawika has delivered keynotes and facilitated learning experiences in several nations.
Kawika started his civil service with the U.S. Border Patrol in south Texas, and after the 9/11 attacks, spent over fourteen years serving as an international team leader with the Federal Air Marshal Service, and was also an instructor at the Federal Air Marshal academy.
Kawika retired from the U.S. Army in 2014 with 21 years of service in the active, reserve, and National Guard components, having served as the Deputy Team Chief of an Embedded Counterinsurgency Advisor mission to Afghan National Security Forces during his last deployment. Kawika was awarded Legion of Merit, as well as the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his actions in combat.
David H. Lau has a baccalaureate degree in International Affairs from the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas. Kawika remains active in the veteran community as a volunteer with local combat wounded veterans, and enjoys giving back by volunteering with nonprofit organizations like Task Force Hydro 1 and the Warrior Surf Foundation.
