Ipolani Silva is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of O'ahu. She is a member of the Kamehameha Schools graduating class of 1981, and a life-long student of polynesian dance. Her first lesson was at the age of four. She met her primary Kumu Hula Darrell Ihi'ihilauakea Lupenui and became a member of the Ladies of Keala O Ka Laua’e. After Kumu Lupenui’s passing in 1987, she then continued her studies under Chinky Mahoe and also began dancing professionally which led to her relocation to Las Vegas in 1992 with Germaine's Luau.

Her professional career as a dancer, lead performer, choreographer and Kumu Hula span over 20 years. Kumu Silva opened her first halau in Las Vegas, Nevada in 1993, and her Production Company the following year. She relocated to Honolulu in 2003 and formed FIA Entertainment, LLC and Halau Ke’ala ‘O Ka ‘Iliahi and has expanded with schools in Las Vegas, and Japan as well. She is also a noted choreographer and minister of Gospel Hula. Ipolani is also the Kumu Hula and Cultural Advisor for Hilo Hattie, and Hawaii Tokai International College.