A Different Kind of Biker Gang
At KVIBE’s shop, Kalihi youth learn to repair donated bicycles – then take one home.
KVIBE is a Kōkua Kalıhı Valley program in which keiki and teens ages 5 to 18 learn how to repair donated bikes and can also earn ownership of a bike they fix.
“They get to pick their bikes, get to customize it. Some people trade in their bikes if they see something better. So I think it’s a really cool space for people after school to come and just engage with their peers, get to know new people,” says KVIBE Program Coordinator Savelio Makasini.
Bruce Konman, pictured, joined the program as a teen and now manages the KVIBE shop.
Makasini says KVIBE started in 2005 to promote physical activity but “it’s evolved into mental health, spiritual health and safe spaces.” The program now incorporates peer mentorship, community dinners, volunteer opportunities, life lesson workshops and cultural activities.
“We always say at KVIBE that our bikes are our modern canoes, our urban canoes, taking us places just like the Hawaiians did with their wa‘a.”
