By Casen Cluney
NaHHA would like to share an article from one of our Lamakū Hoʻokipa, our Beacons of Hospitality, who are making a positive impact through the value of mālama and as a contributing member of the Native Hawaiian community.
In 1981, Captain Henry Kaalekahi, Jr., founded the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) Explorers program with a vision to educate, train, and inspire the next generation of firefighters. Today, the program stands as a dynamic training ground for ʻōpio ages 14-21, offering a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience in firefighting, emergency response, and life-safety skills.
Grounded in a STEAM-based curriculum, this program not only develops technical expertise and professionalism, it also instills foundational values of aloha ʻāina and aloha Kānaka, fostering a new generation of leaders rooted in service, culture, and community.
The program provides young people – known as “explorers” – the chance to connect with their communities and develop skills that prepare them for future careers in public service.
As a former explorer, I spent three transformative years in the program and understand the profound impact this program has had on me. It was one of the most defining moments of my life. From tying knots and rappelling off towers, to working in the loʻi, the lessons I learned extended far beyond firefighting.
The program helped shape my values. I gained discipline, a deeper understanding of kuleana, a lasting respect for people and place, and was inspired to become a servant leader grounded in aloha and dedicated to protecting our communities.
Some of the most impactful experiences was supporting restoration and preservation efforts on Kahoʻolawe with the Protect Kahoʻolawe ʻOhana and working alongside Kākoʻo ʻŌiwi in the cultural, agricultural and ecological revitalization of over 400 acres of wetlands in Ahupuaʻa Heʻeia.
These opportunities deepened my cultural awareness, strengthened my leadership and teamwork skills, and cultivated a lifelong respect for cultural integrity and stewardship.
Today, the HFD Explorers program continues to serve as a cornerstone of youth development, preparing young people not only to fight fires, but to lead with integrity, compassion, and a strong sense of community wellbeing.
The lessons I learned – discipline, kuleana, and pride in my Native Hawaiian heritage – continue to guide me in my career as a firefighter. This program didn’t just prepare me for a profession; it helped define the person I strive to be every day.
Currently stationed at the Waipahu Fire Station, Fire Fighter I Casen Cluney, has four years of dedicated service in the Honolulu Fire Department. He is the youngest of five children of Will and Allyson Cluney of Kailua and proudly serves alongside his brother in the HFD, continuing a strong family legacy rooted in service and aloha ʻāina. His commitment to protecting the community and honoring his Hawaiian heritage exemplifies the spirit of HFD. If you’re inspired to gain invaluable knowledge, build character, and serve your community, learn more about the HFD Explorers Program at hfdexplorers.org
