THE village of Mainstay/Whyaka Village on the Essequibo Coast is celebrating the achievement of two of its sons, Anderson Williams and Ovid Baird, who recently graduated as firefighters and joined the Guyana Fire Service. Their success reflects determination, hard work, and a deep commitment to serving their country and communities.

Ovid Baird grew up in Lake Mainstay, where he was raised by his grandparents. He attended Lake Mainstay Primary School before moving on to Anna Regina Secondary School, where he earned the qualifications that opened the door to a career in the Guyana Fire Service. His interest in firefighting developed after completing a one-week Auxiliary Firefighting Training Programme. He later spent a year assisting in controlling small fires within his community. This experience inspired him to pursue firefighting as a profession.

Ovid chose this career because he wanted to serve his country, save lives, and make a positive impact in his community. He describes the training as challenging but rewarding, teaching him discipline, teamwork, resilience, and perseverance.

Similarly, Anderson Williams’ journey reflects dedication and determination. A former student of Cotton Field Secondary School, he always dreamed of becoming a firefighter and serving as an Auxiliary Firefighter. With the unwavering support of his loving parents, Anderson credits them, who worked on the farm to help support him throughout training.

When asked what advice he would give to his peers he posited that they should believe in themselves. “I would like to encourage the youths out there to take up every opportunity they get and believe in themselves; once you believe in yourself, anything else is possible,” he said.

As newly minted firefighters, both young men hope to grow professionally, serve with integrity, and inspire other youths from Mainstay/Whyaka Village to pursue careers dedicated to national service and community development. (GFS)