A free admission concert for the community is hosted by the Mahoni-Evans family to celebrate their late son, Raewyn Evans, provide a place of comfort and healing and give back to people
Families, friends and community members came together and enjoyed a free admission concert to celebrate inspiration and gratitude for the outpouring of love and support for Raewyn Evans’ journey. The night was filled with live music, bounce houses and local food vendors at the Laie Elementary School field on Aug. 11 to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Rae’s passing.
Brieana Mahoni-Evans, Raewyn’s mother, said August is a tough month for her and her family with the passing away of her son, which is why she wasn’t planning any celebrations. However, thinking about the love and support of community members, she said she, her husband and their families were humbled to plan and host a free admission concert celebration to give back to the people for their kindness and compassion for them as they continue to mourn the loss of a loved one.
Mahoni-Evans expressed her special gratitude and appreciation towards her husband and family for being there for her since the beginning of this difficult journey
A sophomore from Laie majoring in psychology, Aigalesala Toelupe, said, “The celebration of Rae’s life is amazing, for lack of better words.” She explained it is a light getting to know Rae’s beautiful life and journey, even though she did not meet him in person, through bonding with Rae’s parents and connecting with them on social media. “Since moving here, I am so grateful for the opportunity I have got to know Rae’s family and understanding the light of baby Rae and his family continues to shine is a blessing,” she shared.
Charity Fonoimoana, one of the vendors from Laie who was selling smoked meat plates, said, “We love the Evans and the Mahonis, and we are so grateful for the love that they have shown for us and everyone here.” She added, “Rae really brought the community together in celebrating his life and the light that he has shared with everyone.” Fonoimoana expressed her gratitude for the opportunity she and all the vendors had to raise money, support and celebrate the life of Raewyn.
“It is very generous of Rae’s family to completely pay for this event and for allowing us to celebrate with them,” Fonoimoana said.