BY KAUAʻI, FOR KAUAʻI.

At Hoʻomalu Ke Kai, we are dedicated to ocean conservation and restoration, striving to make a positive impact through a variety of initiatives. Our efforts include removing marine debris from underwater and shoreline areas, upcycling it into longer-term materials; surveying and monitoring intertidal and coral reef ecosystems; and implementing restorative projects such as a coral restoration program and other aquaculture projects at a Native Hawaiian Fishpond in collaboration with Kauaʻi Sea Farm. We prioritize connecting this important work to the next generation through educational outreach and hands-on learning to engage the community. Our team, comprised of individuals from Kauaʻi or with a strong connection to the island, is committed to creating a better future for our shared marine ecosystems and next generation who will get to enjoy them as we have.

Our Amazing Team

Meet the dedicated team of ocean protection ambassadors at Hoʻomalu Ke Kai. Each member brings a unique set of skills and expertise to our mission of preserving and inspiring others to care for our precious ocean and marine resources.

Operations

Tim Leichliter

Co-Founder of Hoʻomalu Ke Kai, Tim is a USCG OUPV-6 Pack Boat Captain, PADI Dive Instructor, AAUS Scientific Diver with DAR Kauaʻi, and Emergency First Response First Aid/CPR Instructor. He has been instrumental in establishing the first coral nursery on Kauaʻi and leads Hoʻomalu Ke Kai with a passion for innovative conservation and community-driven solutions, empowering the next generation every step of the way.

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Ocean Education

Capt. Tara Leota

With over 40 years of experience, Capt. Tara is a long-time dive instructor, USCG 200-ton Master Captain, pioneer in eco-charter operations, and staple marine biologist for Kauaʻi. She supports marine education and large animal response efforts, sharing her lifelong passion for the sea through outreach with Hoʻomalu Ke Kai and an environmental roundtable organization she established, Kauaʻi Ocean Awareness.

Creative Initiatives

Michael Raithaus

Hoʻomalu Ke Kai Co-Founder and County of Kauaʻi Ocean Safety Officer, Mike is a dedicated community conservationist and leader, known for his innovative ideas and strategic vision for sustainable programs. His ability to network and market the organization as well as inspire the next generation ensures its continued growth and positive impact by Kauaʻi, for Kauaʻi.

Communications

Allegra Kanna Scribner

With a background in Cinema and Media Arts, Allegra brings a creative and strategic approach to storytelling and outreach. She ensures Hoʻomalu Ke Kai’s mission is effectively shared across platforms, engaging the community in meaningful ways. Her organization, ʻŌpala Art, helps to highlight the ocean plastic waste issue in an intricate way.

Media & Outreach

Kenui Topp

A dedicated father and Kauaʻi Ocean Safety Officer, Kenui combines his BA degree in Environmental Science with over 15 years of ocean photography experience to document and promote conservation efforts. His deep ocean knowledge and creative expertise amplify Hoʻomalu Ke Kai’s outreach and awareness initiatives.

Environmental Conservation & Connection

Clifton Oliver

Clifton, another dedicated Ocean Safety Officer as well as Ambulance EMT, oversees environmental conservation programs. With a strong connection to Kauaʻi and a degree in Business Administration, he helps guide grant proposals/projects and inspires stewardship and community engagement to protect the island’s future.

Mālama Nōmilu

Kalalena Lum-Won

Lena is a long-time protector in our Kauaʻi community and leads efforts to restore and care for the historic Nōmilu fishpond. His work ensures this vital cultural and ecological resource is preserved for generations to come.

Networking

Natalie Nishioka

Natalie uses her Bachelor of Science in Business with a focus on marketing and environmental studies to build partnerships for Hoʻomalu Ke Kai. Her sustainability-focused mindset and efforts strengthen the organization’s connections locally and globally.

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Restorative Aquaculture

Dave Anderson

Dave, Production Manager at Kauaʻi Sea Farm, holds a Master’s degree in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation and leads restorative aquaculture initiatives to support marine ecosystems at Nōmilu fishpond and throughout the State. His expertise drives innovative and sustainable solutions for Kauaʻi’s coral reef ecosystems.

Hawaiian Culture

Pohaku Kekaualua

Pohaku is a cultural leader, professional bodyboarder, and Hawaiian Studies major at UH Mānoa. He is dedicated to preserving Hawaiian traditions and mentoring the next generation through cultural and community programs.

Community Relations

Mikey Salamone

Mikey strengthens community ties and fosters relationships that support conservation and education initiatives. His dedication to building trust and collaboration is vital to the success of Hoʻomalu Ke Kai’s programs.

Awareness and Engagement

Makana Keaweamahi-Maniborg

An underground community leader, Kana (@koofkana) engages the community in conservation efforts by raising awareness and fostering fun and meaningful participation. Through creative initiatives, Makana helps inspire collective action to protect Kauaʻi’s natural resources.

Marketing and PR

Sofia Saunders

Sofia has been volunteering with Hoʻomalu Ke Kai since 10th grade when the organization first started, and she continues to support its mission while studying Sustainability at UH Mānoa. Now helping remotely, she uses her skills in marketing and public relations to strengthen community engagement and amplify conservation efforts.

Cinematography

Kaimana Poulton

Inspired by nature and driven by stories, Kai specializes in photo and video production at Kaimana Creative. With deep appreciation for creativity and the natural world, Kai always looks for ways to be a change-maker in our community.

Jr. Board of Director

Mattea Topp

Mattea brings a fresh perspective and passion for conservation to her role as Junior Board of Director. As a dedicated youth leader, she inspires her peers to mālama ʻāina and take action to protect Kauaʻi’s natural resources.