Grant’s professional experience includes twenty years in roles of service with over a decade of experience in sales, business development, and several years in management. Previously employed by companies such as Tesla, Revolusun, and CEI Hawaii- Grant is focused on utilizing his experience to best serve his community in the non-profit sector.

Kokua Project is proud to have Professor Leandro Nyza as our Board VP and the Head Director/Instructor of our martial arts program- Kokua Martial Arts & Self Defense. Originally from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, “Nyza” has over 35 years of martial arts experience and holds the rank of 5th Degree black belt under Wendall Alexander (co-founder of Nova Uniao Jiu Jitsu alongside Andre Pederneiras). Nyza is the former UFC Gym’s Regional director for their BJJ program (Hon, Hi) and also is the owner and operator of Masters Martial Arts School in Kailua, Hawaii.

Karli Anbe brings with her a specialized background in education and legal document inspection. She is knowledgeable and well-versed in grant writing procedures from 6 years as a Land Document Technician for the City and County of Honolulu. Karli spent five years as a child educator, primarily working in special education (grades K-6) and holds a Masters Degree in Special Education from the University of Hawaii. Karli currently works for the Hawaii Department of Education, serving her Aiea District as a full-time Community Homeless Concerns Liaison (CHCL).

Patrick Lam has extensive experience in inventory management/account management, logistics and has been guiding daily warehouse operations at his family’s business- K & J Wholesale, for the past 14 years.  K & J Wholesale brings in about 30% of Honolulu’s dry goods, primarily serving Chinatown/Honolulu since 1998.  Pat not only offers his knowledge of inventory and warehousing management, but is also versed in accounting, bookeeping, forklift operation, customer service, and sales.

Carolyn has spent several years as a volunteer team member for Camp Agape, a camp for children of incarcerated parents, helping children have a fun and carefree experience and connect with others who are just like them. She has also been a member of her church mission team, healing ministry, and women’s group. As a single parent for many years, Carolyn understands the struggles many of these families go through both financially and socially. She worked long hours to support her family (Grant and 2 brothers) and many times her sons were on their own. Instead of having strong adult male role models in their life, they had their peers to learn from. Carolyn wants to be able to help change this for other children. With committed, talented, sincere role models, she believes the children will be inspired and will have bigger dreams for their future.

Alexander “Alika” Malabey offers his skills and professional network to KP, carried by his passion for supporting the future of Hawaii- it’s next generation. Alika has a wide range of experience, from volunteer work in the nonprofit sector to a 10-year career within the Hawaii State Legislature. Alika has been a successful fundraiser for political campaigns and NGO’s previously holding titles such as Director of Operations for the Board of the Lupus Foundation (2008-2010). Alika is also a small business owner, passionately serving Hawaii’s residents through Visionary Inspections for over a decade.