“Can you fill these boots?”, JoinFDNY Podcast Episode 26
February 21, 2025FDNY Youth Members Complete the 2025 Mid-Winter Leadership Academy
February 27, 2025
22 FDNY Youth members who graduated from the EMS Academy today. This latest group includes alumni of the FDNY Captain Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety, FDNY Exploring Program and FDNY Youth EMS Academy. Join us below today in learning about four of these young achievers.
Probationary EMT Jalen Brathwaite
“Being part of FDNY Youth has taught me about discipline in a way I had not experienced before. Working under a chain of command has shown me the importance of hierarchy and the respect that is both given and earned—on the job and throughout life,” said Probationary EMT Jalen Brathwaite.
The last time we spoke to EMT Brathwaite, he was the Academic Achiever of his 2023 Winter Youth EMS Academy (WEMSA) class. “Prior to joining FDNY Youth, I had no desire to be an EMT, but theWEMSA Program showed me my own potential, and without it, I would not be where I am today,” Brathwaite recalled.
“The EMS Academy as a whole was truly a one-of-a-kind experience for me,” he explained. “The instructors at the Bureau of Training produce nothing but the best EMTs and paramedics, so to learn from them alongside my squad throughout our lectures and various skills training—I am truly grateful for it all.”
“My advice to future FDNY candidates is to remember why you’re here. There will be difficult times, and it can be easy to lose your way in moments of uncertainty. Never forget your purpose and your potential to be great.”
Probationary EMT Avaiya Perez
“Some of my favorite moments throughout the EMS Academy provided me with some of the biggest challenges. The camaraderie I share with my fellow squad members through some of these tough times has now become a collection of memories that we look back on to see how far we’ve come,” said Probationary EMT Avaiya Perez.
A #Williamsburg native, EMT Perez graduated from Captain Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety and the Fall Youth EMS Academy (FEMSA) in 2023. She credits these programs with giving her a jumpstart into a career with the Department. “The Youth Program provided an introduction to the structure and discipline needed to succeed in the EMS Academy,” she explained. “It is because of my experiences with FDNY Youth that I hope to become an instructor in the future and give back to the place that started it all for me.”
“My advice to anyone who is thinking about joining FDNY is to come with an open mind. In this Department, the possibilities are endless,” she added. “Joining this Department has shaped me into the woman I am today, and I am so grateful to explore what this journey has in store for me.”
Probationary EMT Trevon Vickerie George
“The FDNY Youth Program prepared me mentally, physically, and academically for the standard expected during the EMS Academy. I am no star athlete, but the rigorous workouts and motivation I received made me feel like I could accomplish anything,” said Probationary EMT Trevon Vickerie George.
EMT George graduated from Captain Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety, completed the Summer Youth EMS Academy (SEMSA) in 2022, and will be the first member of his family to join the FDNY. “I learned over the course of the academy that there are many opportunities for growth available to me within EMS, and I plan to take advantage of every single one of them,” he explained. “I hope to become a notable name within the FDNY so that the kids in my community can see what they can accomplish, regardless of where they come from.”
“My advice to anyone who wants to follow in our footsteps is to just keep at it,” George added. “The path ahead won’t always be clear or reveal itself—sometimes, you have to grab a shovel and pave it yourself. It won’t be easy, but a little bit of effort goes a long way for you and for the people who will follow after you in the future.”
Probationary EMT Deon Lancaster
“The FDNY Youth Program was an exceptional and rewarding experience that provided me with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle any emergency or traumatic situation in a professional and effective manner,” said Probationary EMT Deon Lancaster, a 21-year-old East Flatbush native who graduates today from the EMS Academy.
A graduate of Captain Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety and the Summer Youth EMS Academy (SEMSA) in 2021, EMT Lancaster credits these programs with giving him an early start in the medical field and preparing him for success as an EMT in the Fire Department. “The knowledge I gained through this program has helped me become a better EMT. The instructors were knowledgeable, patient, and motivated not only me but everyone to succeed. They were great mentors, and I formed lifelong friendships along the way.”
“For anyone looking to pursue this journey, nothing can be achieved without hard work, patience, and staying focused,” he added. “This is not just a job but a career with opportunities for advancement if you choose to pursue them. One of my goals within the Department is to keep moving forward and take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way to better my career.”
To date, over 100 FDNY Youth Alumni have been hired by the Department and currently serve as EMTs, Paramedics, and Firefighters.
Congratulations to all of our graduates! Learn more about our FDNY Youth programs here.
