Hilo Armory Dojo

Sensei Wilbur Mina,
IKL Instructor, Dojo Founder, Board Member, Mentor

Sensei Wilbur Mina began his martial arts journey in 1985 during high school, training under Sensei James Kudo. After Sensei Kudo’s departure in 1987, Sensei Mina continued his training under Sensei Guy Sakai and earned his Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) in 1992.
Motivated by a deep passion for Karate and a commitment to community leadership, Sensei Mina founded the Keaau Dojo in 2010. In 2022, he expanded his influence by opening the Hilo Armory Dojo and promoted Sensei Erin Mina to lead the Keaau Dojo. He continues to serve as an active adviser and mentor, fostering growth and excellence across both dojos.
From 2010 to 2019, Sensei Mina supplemented his Karate training with the study of Okazaki Danzan Ryu Jujutsu, further enriching his martial arts understanding and broadening his technical foundation.
In recognition of his experience and dedication, Sensei Mina has served on the IKL Board of Directors since 2014, helping to shape the direction and integrity of the organization.
Sensei Mina remains a dedicated student, instructor, and leader within the Karate community. His lifelong commitment to learning and teaching emphasizes the values of discipline, respect, and continuous improvement.
Outside the dojo, Sensei Mina holds an Associate of Science in Welding and Sheet Metal (1990), an Associate of Science in Liberal Arts (1999), and a Bachelor of Business Administration (2002) from the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo. He has worked as a district sales consultant for Suisan Company, a food distribution company, since 2005. Sensei Mina and his wife, Sensei Erin Mina, are proud parents of two sons, Wilbur Jr. (14) and Wesley (12), who participate in IKL Karate. Sensei Mina enjoys spending time with his family and continues to lead by example in all areas of life.