Protecting the Next Generation: Vaping Education for Native Hawaiian Youth

This summer, one of the main goals of the Maui, Molokai, and Lana‘i Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawai‘i (Maui, Molokai, and Lana‘i CTFH) was to provide vaping prevention presentations to youth during summer activities and enrichment programs. Even while keiki were out of school, the coalition continued offering education on tobacco, nicotine, e-cigarettes, and vaping. 

The Hawaiian Canoe Club’s Kamali‘i summer cultural enrichment program, which serves youth ages 10–17 at Hoaloha Park in Kahului Harbor, was one of these opportunities. The club’s mission is to “perpetuate and preserve the art of Hawaiian canoe paddling by providing an environment rooted in traditional Hawaiian values that promotes personal growth, character development, and achievement in physical fitness.” Each summer afternoon begins with an ‘oli, followed by a hale gathering and lessons upstairs. We were honored to join this program and share education on the dangers of vaping. In alignment with the Maui, Molokai, and Lana‘i CTFH’s mission to create a healthier Hawai‘i, the canoe club also promotes teamwork and strength in both physical and mental health.  

A total of 36 youth attended the presentation, most between the ages of 10–14. Coalition member and partner grantee, Kepa Naeole, Program Services Coordinator for The Boys & Girls Club of Maui, presented the Hawai‘i version of the You & Me Together curriculum created by Stanford University. The discussion focused on the health and environmental impacts of tobacco use and discarded vape products, which can often be found on club grounds and beaches. 

For these young paddlers, the message carried special meaning. Canoe paddling, a traditional and physically demanding practice, requires strong lungs, endurance, and overall wellness—qualities that are undermined by tobacco and nicotine use. As they strive for medals in state-level competitions, Native Hawaiian youth are also choosing a lifestyle rooted in cultural strength and health.

At the close of the presentation, each participant received educational resources and an 808NOVAPE sticker. By choosing not to vape or smoke, these youth honor their kūpuna (ancestors), protect their health, and ensure they are prepared to thrive both in the canoe and in life. Their commitment reflects pride in their identity and a deep respect for the ocean, their community, and themselves.

To schedule a vaping and tobacco presentation, please contact leslie@hiphi.org. For more information on the Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawaii Youth Council please visit https://www.hiphi.org/youth.