HONOLULU (KHON2) — Twinkle Borge, a longtime resident and leader of Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae, passed away on Monday.
In a statement released Tuesday, Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae acclaimed Borge’s lifelong commitment to service, noting her belief that “kuleana wakes up the mana inside” and her conviction that everyone, regardless of their status, has the potential to lead in their community.
Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae is a settlement of 200 homeless individuals near Wai‘anae Boat Harbor on Oʻahu’s leeward coast. The village is a home to keiki, kupuna and working families.
Borge was affectionately known in the village as “Mama,” Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae wrote on their website.
Governor Josh Green released a statement on Tuesday expressing admiration for Borge.
“Auntie Twinkle Borge was an incredible inspiration to so many and proved to all of us, her inner belief that anyone, houseless or not, can be a community leader,” Green said in the statement. “Her Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae kauhale is actively being built and will put roofs over the heads of her Wai‘anae Boat Harbor neighbors for generations to come.”
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi also acknowledged Borge’s vision as a powerful advocate for Oʻahu’s houseless community.
“She was more than just a leader; she was an inspiration and a relentless advocate who believed in every person’s potential. Her legacy of kindness, resilience, and community building will continue to inspire us all,” Blangiardi said in the statement released Tuesday morning. “On behalf of the City and County of Honolulu, I extend my deepest condolences to Twinkle’s family, friends, and the entire Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae community. Her loss is felt deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
The cause of Borge’s death has not been disclosed.
A memorial service to honor her life is planned for a later date.
“Twinkle Borge will be profoundly missed, but her legacy of aloha, kindness, and community will live on.” The Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae’s statement read.
For more information, visit their website.