At Tuesdays Fire Commission meeting, the Kauai Fire Department recognized the inaugural year of the Junior Lifeguard Internship Program, a pilot initiative designed to train and educate youth who have previously participated in the Kauai County Junior Lifeguard Program.
“This program provides young people with hands-on experience in ocean safety, rescue techniques, and first aid, helping prepare the next generation of County Lifeguards,” said Kauai Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson. “We are proud of these interns for their dedication, leadership, and willingness to serve as role models for their peers.”
Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami added, “These young interns are an inspiration to our community. Through this program, they not only gain critical life-saving skills, but they also learn the values of teamwork, responsibility, and service that will carry them into adulthood. Kauai is safer and stronger because of their commitment.”
The weeklong internship, open to youth ages 14 and older, modeled its training after the professional program provided to County Ocean Safety Officers. Interns received instruction in ocean safety awareness, rescue skills, CPR, and AED techniques. Participants also served as co-instructors in local Junior Lifeguard Programs and represented Kauai at the State Junior Lifeguard Championships on Maui, where the team placed third overall and earned top honors in several events.
This years interns demonstrated exceptional commitment and teamwork. Kahelelani Brede and Jae Dominques each placed second in Beach Flags, Koa Rine finished fifth in the Iron Guard, Isabella Ranis earned first place in the 250-meter swim and third place in the Iron Guard, Fay Dominques captured first place in the Paddle Board Relay and was voted team captain, and Kalia “Pico” McLean was recognized for her enthusiasm and team spirit. Their efforts reflected not only competitive excellence but also the values of leadership, dedication, and service that the program seeks to instill in Kauai youth.
The programs instructors, including Captain Kaleo Lopez, Lieutenant Kleve Zarbaugh, Lieutenant Eric Pereza, and Ocean Safety Officer II Micah Nobriga-Ferris, were recognized for sharing their expertise and mentorship. Their guidance helped interns develop essential skills and instilled lifelong lessons in teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect for the ocean.
KFD also expresses gratitude to the parents and families who supported the interns, as well as to the Kauai Lifeguard Association, the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association, the County of Kauai, and program sponsors and partners who made the inaugural internship possible.
Looking ahead, organizers hope to explore opportunities to expand youth programs and consider ways to connect with other Junior Lifeguard programs to provide additional experiences for young ocean safety leaders.
Source: The Garden Island