Meet the

May 2026

The 2026, 4th of July Makawao Stampede Junior Queen, Kyleigh Ku’ule’amaikalani Magallanes-Akiona, is the daughter of Kasey and Kaiola Akiona. While born and raised in Puuanahulu on the Big Island, Kyleigh spends her rodeo season competing here on Maui. When she’s not in school or riding horses, Kyleigh enjoys hunting and playing softball, as well as working at a boutique called Waile’a. Kyleigh is honored to wear the title of the 4th of July Makawao Stampede Junior Queen, as she believes it represents the leadership, culture, community, and pride of the paniolo heritage. She aims to inspire younger generations to get involved with rodeo and horsemanship, and the preservation of Hawai’i’s paniolo traditions, and to take pride in the culture. Most importantly, she shares, “ I want to leave a positive impact on my community by using my voice and platform to uplift others, support local rodeo traditions, and represent Makawao with grace and integrity. I want people to remember me not only for the title I held, but for the heart, dedication, and passion I brought to the role.”

Kyleigh would like to mahalo her mom, dad, Aunty Ala, and Uncle Garin. She shared, “Thank you guys for all your love, encouragement, and guidance. It means the world to me.”