Okinawan lifeguards complete exchange training with
the Kaua‘i Ocean Safety Bureau
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Ocean Safety Bureau (OSB), in partnership with the Okinawan Lifesaving Association, hosted a certificate ceremony on Friday, Feb. 20, at the Mo‘ikeha Rotunda. During the ceremony, Derek S.K. Kawakami recognized the visiting lifeguards from Okinawa and congratulated them on completing the program.
“The exchange of lifesaving knowledge and culture strengthens our ability to protect everyone enjoying Kaua‘i’s waters,” said Mayor Kawakami. “Programs like this build international friendships and make our ocean safety efforts even more effective.”
The ceremony marked the conclusion of the Lifeguard Exchange Program, an intensive week-long training initiative bringing together members of the Okinawan Lifesaving Association and Kaua‘i Ocean Safety Bureau personnel. Throughout the program, participants engaged in water safety and rescue exercises, shared best practices, and strengthened their lifesaving skills through hands-on collaboration.
“Hosting these lifeguards allows our staff to learn new techniques while sharing Kaua‘i’s unique ocean conditions and culture,” said OSB Chief Kalani Vierra. “It’s a valuable experience for everyone involved.”
From Feb. 16 to Feb. 20, the visiting lifeguards trained at several locations across Kaua‘i, each presenting unique ocean and rescue conditions. The sessions included simulated rescue scenarios at remote sites, providing valuable experience in navigating hazardous surf and shoreline environments.
“This program highlights the importance of collaboration between departments and international partners,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson. “Every life we save benefits from these shared skills and experiences.”
This year’s exchange also featured a rip current demonstration clinic led by Bruce “Hoppo” Hopkins of Australia, widely regarded as one of the world’s most experienced and respected water safety authorities.
The visiting lifeguards from the Okinawan Lifesaving Association included:
- Taishi Otono, Representative Director
- Kazuhiko Ogawa
- Tsubasa Asato
- Soyo Makiura
- Kazumichi Hosaka
- Michiru Yoshida
- Takanori Asakawa
- Yutaka Koyama
- Shizue Koyama
- Kenji Nagahama
- Ayumu Yamashita, Video Crew
- Kazuki Uechi, Video Crew
Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami addresses the crowd with the help of Representative Director Taishi Otono, who assisted in translation.
Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson (left) and Ocean Safety Bureau Chief Kalani Vierra (right) address the crowd.
Group photo of Okinawan lifeguards, Ocean Safety Bureau personnel, Kaua‘i Fire Department personnel, State of Hawai‘i Airport Rescue Fire Fighters, and Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami.
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