Abigail Naaykens

Master of Social Work, Behavioral Mental Health, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa
Bachelor of Social Work, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa

Abigail was born and raised in Southwest Missouri and lived in Southern Colorado before settling on Kauaʻi in 2018. She joins Namahana School as the founding Student Support Coordinator.

Abby holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, with a focus in behavioral mental health. She has specialized experience working with keiki with developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Her approach is rooted in recognizing strengths and empowering individuals and their families. 

Abby’s social work background aligns closely with Namahana’s ola framework, which emphasizes the health and well-being of the whole child. Abby is especially excited by the opportunity to support youth as they grow into community leaders. She has a passion for grassroots advocacy and believes that the most impactful change comes from those who are closest to the challenges—and who know their communities best. 

Abby serves as the Pride Scholarship Chair for the Kauaʻi Pride Committee and works to uplift māhū and LGBTQ+ youth. She is also deeply committed to substance use harm reduction, mental health, and supporting young people to cultivate safe, healthy, and empowered futures.

Before entering the social services field, Abby taught yoga and farmed on the North Shore of Kauaʻi. In her free time, she enjoys distance swimming in the open ocean and believes in the restorative power of a good afternoon nap.