FOR many young people growing up in Guyana’s hinterland and riverine communities, opportunities can often seem limited by geography, but for Firewoman Kelise Williams of Jacklow Village in the Upper Pomeroon River, however, distance was never a barrier to ambition.
Today, the determined young woman proudly wears the uniform of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), becoming the first female firefighter from her village and fulfilling a childhood dream rooted in service and helping others.
Williams’ journey began in the small Amerindian community where she attended Jacklow Primary School, paddling by boat each day to reach classes. Despite the challenges associated with life in a remote riverine settlement, she remained focused on her education and future aspirations.
Her hard work paid off when she earned a place at Anna Regina Secondary School, where she successfully obtained seven subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination.
After leaving secondary school, Williams pursued studies in cosmetology and office administration, equipping herself with skills for the workforce. Yet, according to the Guyana Fire Service, her passion for firefighting remained strong.
From a young age, she envisioned a career dedicated to helping others during emergencies and times of crisis.
Now, having successfully completed Recruit Course 1-2026, Williams hopes her achievement will inspire other young women, particularly those from rural and Indigenous communities, to pursue careers that are traditionally viewed as male-dominated.
“I want young girls to know that they can achieve anything they set their minds to and should never fear stepping into places where they can grow, succeed and make a difference,” Williams said.
Her path to becoming a firefighter was far from easy.
Williams described the training programme as both mentally and physically demanding, involving early mornings, late nights, strenuous drills and moments of exhaustion. Despite the challenges, she remained committed to achieving her goal.
She credited her instructors and fellow recruits for providing encouragement and support throughout the training process.
Her story stands as a testament to resilience, determination and the power of perseverance, demonstrating that dreams can be realised regardless of where one comes from.
Williams is among the 107 new firefighters who graduated from Recruit Course 1-2026 during a ceremony held at the Fire Service Training School on the West Coast of Demerara last Friday.
The graduation marked the successful completion of months of intensive training and was attended by family members, friends and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the recruits’ achievements as they officially entered the service on probation.
Graduates showcased their skills through a series of practical demonstrations, including foot drills, firefighting techniques and first aid exercises, highlighting the comprehensive training received during the programme.
Among the 107 graduates were 33 women who successfully completed the demanding course alongside their male counterparts.
Addressing the ceremony, Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham described the graduation as another significant milestone in the continued development of the Guyana Fire Service.
He thanked the Government of Guyana for its continued investment in the agency, noting that support has not only improved firefighting equipment and infrastructure but has also strengthened the Service’s human resources.
Wickham also expressed appreciation to the parents, spouses and relatives of the recruits for their unwavering support throughout the training period.
Meanwhile, Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, congratulated the graduates on successfully completing the programme and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernising and expanding the Fire Service.
She encouraged the new firefighters to remain dedicated to serving the nation and protecting lives and property while continuing to develop professionally.
Several recruits were recognised for outstanding performance during the ceremony.
Trevon Williams was named Best Graduating Student and also captured awards for Best Drill and Best Theory.
Tomicka Crawford was awarded Runner-up Best Graduating Student and Best Female Firefighter, while Devindra Persaud received the Most Improved Student Award.
The awardees received trophies and plaques in recognition of their achievements, with Trevon Williams also receiving a special award from Minister Walrond.
The addition of the 107 new firefighters comes as the Guyana Fire Service continues to strengthen its emergency response capabilities through ongoing recruitment, specialised training and investments in modern firefighting infrastructure and equipment across the country.
