HIWFRS Fire cadets Lauren and Annabelle have been selected to attend the Fire Angel Leadership Foundation Programme in Sweden to represent Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) Fire Cadets.
The Fire Angel programme aims to empower young people by offering them a chance to take part in unique training, mentorship and role modelling. The programme was created by firefighters Rebecca Openshaw-Rowe from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Georgina Gilbert from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service after they completed a pioneering expedition, skiing to the South Pole, unsupported and unguided.
Lauren from the Eastleigh fire cadet unit and Annabelle from the Basingstoke unit will be joining 6 other fire cadets from around the Country to participate in the week-long programme, which is being run in conjunction with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) Fire Cadets. The cadets will visit the Fire Angel base in Sweden where they will practice and refine their leadership skills, whilst navigating a polar environment.
The first round of UK training for the programme starts this month. The cadets will learn how to pitch tents expedition style and prepare meals while camping and learning top tips to keep warm. They will also get the chance to experience the sensation of pulling a sled as well as hearing from inspirational guest speakers. The cadets will then take part in two further training weekends before heading off for their Sweden adventure in February.
As the founders of the programme, the Antarctic Fire Angels are a charity, those selected to take part in the expedition have committed to raising funds to help cover the costs. Lauren and Annabelle are currently raising money for the charity, whose mission is ‘to nurture talent in young people to become creative, ambitious, inspiring and innovative leaders of tomorrow.’ As they continue to build on the Fire Angel Foundation, the Antarctic Fire Angels also remain committed to raising vital funds for The Fire Fighter’s Charity.
In October Fire Cadet Crew Manager Lauren is taking on the challenge of a 100 metre abseil down the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth as part of her fundraising efforts.
Lauren said:
“I am grateful to have this opportunity as I know I will really benefit from the trip. I will learn leadership, resilience and selflessness in putting the needs of my team above my own.
These experiences and skills will help me throughout my whole life. I am extremely grateful for every donation!”
HIWFRS Fire Cadet Manager Clair Hayward said:
“We can’t wait to follow their journey and we are very excited for them both. This is an amazing opportunity and one that I know they will both embrace”
