16 Aug KBRA Names Nathan Brovelli as ‘Nā Hōkū O’ Kā‘anapali’

Nathan Brovelli, Bell Attendant at Aston at the Whaler on Kā‘anapali Beach, has been named by the Kā‘anapali Beach Resort Association as one of the “shining stars” who act as ambassadors of the resort area. Launched in July 2018, KBRA’s “Nā Hōkū O’ Kā‘anapali” public relations campaign highlights Kā‘anapali’s best and brightest individuals and shares their stories with media, thereby increasing the public’s understanding and interest.

As bell attendant at the front entrance of the Whaler, Brovelli is often the first and last employee that guests see as they arrive and depart, and he takes this responsibility very seriously. He wants each and every guest to feel welcome and comfortable and to learn as much as they can about Kā‘anapali, Maui and the Hawaiian culture.

Born in Honolulu to a Hawaiian mother and Italian father, Brovelli was one of six children. His childhood was a happy and loving one, despite his parents’ struggle to keep food on the table for 8 people in a 2-bedroom home. His mom always encouraged her children to work hard and study hard so that their lives would be fulfilling.

After high school, Brovelli got a job at Kramer’s clothing store at Ala Moana Center. It was the start of a 25-year career in retail, in which he worked his way up from stock clerk to senior manager of two stores and served in almost every position in the retail industry in the process. During that period, Brovelli also fulfilled his dream of working as a police officer. He attended Training Academy for the Honolulu Police Department and graduated in the upper 10% of his class. Although he enjoyed working as a police officer in the field, he made the tough decision to resign from the force for family reasons.

Coming to Maui, he accepted a retail position at the Aston Kā‘anapali Shores Resort, as well as a part-time bell attendant position. In 2012, he transferred to the Whaler as a full-time bell attendant. In this position, Brovelli’s natural love of customer service and sharing aloha has come to the forefront, and in 2018, he won third place statewide as Bell/Valet Person of the Year for medium property (200-450 rooms) by the Hawai‘i Lodging & Tourism Association.

Meeting people from around the world is an exciting aspect of Brovelli’s work. “Most of our visitors are eager to know something about our Hawaiian culture and what Hawai‘i has to offer,” he says. “Having the opportunity to answer their questions, suggest places to visit, talk about my homeland with pride, and provide as much information as I can to make their stay at our hotel pleasant and memorable is an honor to me.”

Brovelli avidly studies his Hawaiian heritage: reading Hawaiian history books, visiting museums, reading old newspapers, and writing a weekly “Hawaiian Talk Story Article” in the Whaler’s weekly newsletter (135 weekly news articles and counting!). He is also a huge fan of Hawaiian music, going back to his childhood and the music that was always part of his family life. At work, he encourages visitors to take both the “Kā‘anapali Trail Walk” and the “Lahaina Historical Walk,” handing out maps of the walks at his bell desk and explaining the history of these important areas to guests.

Brovelli’s favorite Kā‘anapali spot is Pu‘u Keka‘a, or “Black Rock,” because of the area’s spiritual and royal past. It’s also the place where Brovelli and a friend rescued a pair of children from drowning in the deep water several years ago. Like his Hawaiian hero Eddie Aikau, Brovelli never turns away if he sees an opportunity to help someone, whether it’s saving a life or simply helping a visitor create a special memory.

“We are so pleased to recognize Nathan Brovelli as one of our Nā Hōkū O’ Kā‘anapali,” says KBRA Executive Director Shelley Kekuna. “Nathan is truly dedicated to making a positive difference in our guests’ lives while they are here on our beautiful island. He shares Hawaiian culture and hospitality and takes every opportunity to spread joy and aloha.”

Nā Hōkū O’ Kā‘anapali embody several essential qualities: they are well-respected in the Kā‘anapali community; they are 100-percent committed to serving the area; and they are at the top of their game in their professional fields. They are also fascinating individuals with unique interests—and their respect for Hawaiian culture runs deep.

Throughout the year, KBRA introduces and celebrates our Nā Hōkū with media events, demonstrations and discussions, both in person and online. Our stars help to promote Kā‘anapali and increase editorial exposure in key national markets, thereby attracting a steady flow of visitors to help ensure a vibrant local economy.