From the Streets, Toward Possibility

KALYE — Key for Alternative Livelihood and Youth Empowerment — is a community of young people whose journey began with lived experiences on the streets. In 2008, KALYE first encountered ICAN Foundation, which became an important part of their journey toward new opportunities, learning, and support. What started as a chance to build a different path eventually grew into a community where young people could learn skills, work together, and discover their potential. In 2012, KALYE was formally established. From there, the group began exploring livelihood opportunities as a way to develop skills and create sustainable sources of income.

Building Through Livelihood

KALYE's early years were shaped by entrepreneurship and livelihood. The group started by selling bread to neighbors in 2014 and eventually participated in events and explored different products. In 2016, KALYE established its first coffee shop in Kalayaan, followed by a new shop in UP Diliman in 2017. KALYE continued experimenting with products and business ideas, including a new concept for KALYE Café as a study café in 2019. Although the café eventually closed due to low profitability, the experience became part of KALYE's learning journey. For KALYE, livelihood was never only about selling products. It became a space where young people could develop responsibility, teamwork, creativity, entrepreneurship, and confidence.

Growing Beyond Livelihood

KALYE continued to evolve. In 2021, ICAN helped reorganize KALYE, creating an opportunity for the group to reflect, rebuild, and explore new directions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, KALYE also participated in COVID-19 awareness activities, continuing its commitment to supporting and engaging with communities. Training remained an important part of this journey—from baking and food production to chiffon-making, chips production, and other livelihood skills.

But as KALYE grew, its focus also expanded beyond livelihood.

From Participants to Leaders

Beginning in 2022–2024, KALYE strengthened its focus on youth leadership and began developing the KALYE Juniors.

Through leadership trainings, youth congresses, community activities, and other learning opportunities, young people were given more space to participate, make decisions, work as a team, and take responsibility.

The journey began to shift: