TED Community » Elizabeth Lindsey

About Me

Elizabeth Kapu’uwailani Lindsey is the first Polynesian Explorer and female Fellow in the history of the National Geographic Society. In spring 2011 Lindsey, an award-winning filmmaker and anthropologist, embarks on a worldwide expedition in an effort to safeguard indigenous knowledge. These teachings, she believes, are critical to navigating the complexities of our time. Her journey will result in the creation of a geospatial ‘Map of Humanity’, which she is currently developing with Google. Based on the indigenous science of wayfinding and using diverse methodologies, the map will serve as a real-time, ever-expanding visual encyclopedia and archive of the human narrative.

Elizabeth also works with United Nations Ambassadors on behalf of environmental refugees faced with the punishing realities of the climate crisis. Her keen insight and first-hand accounts from the world’s most fragile regions are reshaping western perspectives, making her international speaking engagements an inspired call-to-action.

On a recent expedition, Elizabeth journeyed to Satawal, Micronesia where she recorded the traditions of the palu, Micronesian non-instrument navigators. Lindsey, who was raised by native Hawaiian elders, earned her doctorate in cultural anthropology with a specialization in ethnonavigation. She spent almost ten years documenting master navigator Pius “Mau” Piailug who recently passed away and was considered the greatest wayfinder in the world.

Her documentary film, “Then There Were None”, which chronicles the near extinction of native Hawaiians, is considered a Hawaiian history classic and has received numerous awards including the prestigious CINE Eagle.

Named “Woman of the Year” in 2004 on Hawai’i Island, Lindsey has created educational scholarships in India and Hawai’i. She currently serves on international boards devoted to human rights, gender equality, cultural and environmental sustainability, and education.