Africa Fire Mission reaches thousands of people all around the world. From face-to-face instruction in Africa to our weekly online trainings, our impact is possible thanks to the generous support of our volunteers, instructors, and partners.

Our volunteers and instructors assist with our programs, help unload and pack gear, and provide valuable training to firefighters in Africa. We are so grateful for all the support we receive and would like to recognize two of our supporters through our annual Volunteer and Instructor of the Year Awards! These awards were made to recognize individuals who make significant contributions to AFM and, in turn, make a substantial impact on the people that AFM serves.

On October 12th, 2024, Africa Fire Mission will honor Hank Clemmensen and Scott Holland at our annual fundraising event, the Chama.

volunteer of the year

Africa Fire Mission thrives on volunteers. Our volunteers are at the heart of our organization and are a vital part of AFM being able to achieve its goals and objectives. These people from across North America, Africa, and Europe allow us to serve communities on a daily basis.

Scott Holland - Volunteer of the Year

Scott Holland is a Lieutenant for the Sharonville Fire Department in Ohio. In 2015, Scott traveled to Africa with AFM looking for some adventure and a place to put his skills to use. During this trip, he led a search and rescue class, utilizing few resources to make a substantial impact. After that trip, Scott decided to get more involved with AFM and began helping with our logistics (picking up equipment from various departments and making sure it is ready for shipment). Scott is always available to help and makes sure that equipment we receive is set and ready to go for donation to our partners across the globe. Scott has helped us thank our fire department partners with Coffee for Fire Houses and helps to share our mission with fire departments local to Cincinnati.

Scott fully embodies our mission to train, empower, support, and encourage firefighters in Africa and his leadership has allowed us to continue to grow!

An AFM team member who has worked with Scott shared some words about Scott’s dedication to serving and his attitude while volunteering:

“I met Scott for the first time earlier this year, and I was immediately impressed by his dedication to serving AFM. No matter the circumstances, Scott was always happy to help out. He would work outside in the heat, come early in the morning, and lift a lot of gear but would always be gracious and remain positive.

Scott makes such a difference in our gear organization and logistics and we are truly lucky to have him as one of our volunteers!”

A volunteer with AFM shares that, “Scott has great insight and an eye for detail which is critical for ensuring efficient use of resources to support our mission partners. He is cheerful and always willing to serve where needed.”

Thank you, Scott, for helping AFM expand its mission by equipping countries with needed gear and PPE! We look forward to serving with you for years to come!

Instructor of the year

When Africa Fire Mission travels with a team to provide training in Africa or other parts of the world, our team members volunteer their time, talents, and treasures to provide world class training to our partners. Our instructors undergo training in advance of the trip to prepare for the mission and plan the lessons that they will teach in our week long fire training events. We are fortunate to have many instructors return year after year who continue to build on the training that they have been providing as well as to build strong relationships with firefighters and our overseas partners.

Hank Clemmensen - Instructor of the Year

Hank Clemmensen is a veteran fire chief that first joined an AFM team trip to Kenya after an invitation from Dave Moore, Founder of AFM. Hank was greatly impacted by his first trip, but found the realities of the Mathare Valley settlement community to be overwhelming and traumatizing and vowed to never return to Africa. However, Hank saw the needs of the fire service and their hunger for learning. As the former President of the International Fire Chief’s Association and Chief of the Palatine Rural Fire Department, Hank’s extensive international experience lead him back to Africa in 2017. Hank has been an essential instructor for AFM and has participated in missions to Kenya, Zambia and Nigeria. He expanded his involvement by becoming AFM’s board chair and has helped to lead us over the past fourteen years.

Hank is able to see the needs of the fire service. He works with fire chiefs and officers in Africa to grow departments in advocacy, addressing financial and political challenges and has helped the fire service navigate opportunities for growth.

Hank encourages our team members and advocates for the firefighters. His heart for Africa is abundantly clear!

An AFM volunteer who has served with Hank on a mission trip submitted some words about Hank’s contributions and impact on the people AFM serves:

“I am writing to express my deep appreciation and admiration for the exceptional contributions Hank has made throughout his career, and especially for the positive impact he has had within AFM.

Our first encounter was in 2001 when Hank took on the role of Fire Chief at the department where I was working. From the beginning, it was evident that he possessed remarkable leadership abilities and a genuine passion for the fire service. Working closely with him as the Public Information/Education Officer, I witnessed firsthand Hank’s dedication, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to service. These qualities have been a cornerstone of Hank’s career and have seamlessly carried over into his work with AFM.

During my time in Kenya, I had the privilege of observing a few of Hank’s classes and saw his passion for teaching and serving in action. Hank’s ability to engage his audience, his patience with his students, and clear, effective communication are truly commendable. It is this same dedication and passion that has inspired me to continue with AFM, and I am now preparing for my fourth trip with the organization.

Hank’s influence has extended far beyond his immediate work, and his commitment to making a difference is evident in the lives he has touched. It is with great respect and gratitude that I recognize Hank for his exceptional contributions and ongoing impact.

Thank you, Hank, for inspiring me and others through your work. I look forward to continuing towork alongside you and witnessing the continued success of your efforts.”

Thank you, Hank, for helping AFM expand its mission through training and leadership. We look forward to serving with you for years to come!