HomeMy WebLinkAboutRD.3 - Lokahi Coworks
Introduction
Lōkahi CoWorks, founded under Aloha Is Key LLC in 2022, is a collaborative coworking space
designed to support local startups and entrepreneurs. With a strong emphasis on community
engagement, networking, and business development, Lōkahi CoWorks has become a valuable
resource for businesses across Hawaii. Led by Mosese Ohia, a dynamic entrepreneur and
community advocate, Lōkahi CoWorks is not only a space for productivity but also a hub for
creative and social collaboration.
Mosese’s diverse experience, including his leadership role at Shaka Tea, nonprofit involvement,
and advocacy for community development, provides Lōkahi CoWorks with the expertise and
resources to foster the growth of startups, community programs, and local talent. His
entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community service have shaped Lōkahi CoWorks into a
thriving space where businesses, nonprofits, and individuals come together for meaningful
impact.
(1) The name of the firm or person, contact information including email
address, the principal place of business, and location of all of its
offices
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(3) The education, training, and qualifications of the individual, or if a
firm, its key employees in accordance with HRS 103D-304 and/or the
professional and scientific occupation series contained in the United
States Office of Personnel Managementʻs Qualifications Standards
Handbook
Founder: Mosese Ohia
Mosese Ohia is a passionate leader with a diverse background in business development,
nonprofit work, and community engagement. He brings extensive experience from his time as
Director of Shaka Tea, where he played a pivotal role in the company's growth and acquisition.
Mosese has also taught commercial agriculture classes to justice-involved individuals through
the Pu'uhonua Wellness Program by Blueprint for Change, helping individuals build sustainable
careers in agriculture.
(2) The age of the firm and its average number of employees over the
past five years
In addition to his business ventures, Mosese is the owner of Sweet Bean Vanillary, a local
business that adds a unique touch to the community by offering high-quality vanilla products.
His work extends beyond business to address the needs of his community through partnerships
and collaborations with local leaders. Mosese has been involved in various initiatives aimed at
improving economic development, workforce training, and social equity island-wide.
Additionally, he is involved in the project aim to revitalize the 1922 Pacific Building in Downtown
Hilo. Partnering with the Historic Hawaii Foundation, Mosese is submitting a proposal on behalf
of Sai Baba Hawaii LLC.
Mosese serves as a board member for the Donkey Mill Art Center, a nonprofit organization
dedicated to the arts. This role underscores his commitment to fostering creativity and providing
opportunities for local artists to thrive.
● Contact Information: (808) 987-2928 mosese.ohia@gmail.com
● Location(s):
○ Sweet Bean Vanillary: 166 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
○ Lōkahi Coworks: 120 Keawe Street, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
(4) A list of recent projects and the names of up to five clients who may be
contacted, including at least two for whom services were rendered during
the preceding year;
Recent Events Hosted by Lōkahi CoWorks & Mosese Ohia
Mosese Ohia and Lōkahi CoWorks have hosted and partnered with various community-focused
initiatives to empower local businesses and individuals. Some of the recent events include:
● Keiki Art Workshops: Hosted in collaboration with Temple Children and Miya
Tsukazaki, this event engaged children in creative activities while teaching the value of
artistic expression and community involvement. The workshops were designed to
nurture young minds and encourage the growth of the next generation of artists and
entrepreneurs.
○ Contact: Miya Tsukazaki, (808) 938-6281, miya@templechildren.com
○ Location: 164 Kilauea Ave, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
● Pu'uhonua Wellness Workshops: In partnership with Blueprint for Change, Mosese
hosted workshops for justice-involved individuals as part of the Pu'uhonua Wellness
Program. These workshops aimed to provide education, mentorship, and skills training
in agriculture and business, empowering individuals to reintegrate into the workforce
and become self-sufficient.
○ Contact: La Vonne Richardson, (808) 798-8553,
lavonne@blueprintforchange.org
○ Location: 677 Ala Moana Blvd #907, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
● Indivisible Hilo Action Group for Democracy: This networking and advocacy event
brought together local leaders and community members focused on democracy and
social change. The event emphasized collaboration for social justice and offered a
space for community leaders to strategize on advancing democratic ideals and civic
engagement.
○ Contact: Olani Lilly, (808) 960-5732, olani@indivisiblehiloone.org
○ Location: 179 Kauhane Ave Hilo, Hawaii 96720, United States
● Greenhouse Project and Workforce Development: In collaboration with the Arc of
Hilo, Mosese hosted a workforce development event focused on the Greenhouse
Project, which provided training and employment opportunities for individuals in
agriculture and horticulture. This event aimed to build essential skills and create
sustainable career pathways for individuals with developmental disabilities.
○ Contact: Robert Efford, (808) 464-6111, refford@hiloarc.org
○ Location: 1099 Waianuenue Ave, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
● Workforce Mentorship with ALU LIKE: Mosese also facilitated mentorship
workshops with ALU LIKE, providing guidance and resources to individuals seeking to
improve their career prospects. This initiative focused on workforce development and
mentorship for underrepresented individuals.
○ Contact: Michael Dias, (808) 427-8621, midias@alulike.org
○ Location: 159 Kalanikoa Street, Unit #5, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720
Lōkahi CoWorks Overview
Lōkahi CoWorks is more than just a coworking space; it’s a hub of innovation, collaboration, and
community support. The space provides a flexible and inclusive environment where startups,
entrepreneurs, and community members can access vital resources, mentorship, and
networking opportunities. Through workshops, events, and direct mentorship, Lōkahi CoWorks
serves as a catalyst for business growth and social good.
Key Offerings Include:
● Flexible Workspace Solutions: Offering private offices, shared desks, and meeting
rooms, Lōkahi CoWorks meets the needs of businesses at every stage.
● Business Development Support: From mentoring to startup registration, Lōkahi
CoWorks offers valuable guidance to entrepreneurs.
● Networking Opportunities: Regular community events and networking meetups that
encourage collaboration and growth.
● Community Engagement: Lōkahi CoWorks is committed to social impact by hosting
workshops, partnering with local nonprofits, and supporting workforce development
initiatives.
Any information regarding Lōkahi CoWorks can be found at: lokahicoworks.com