EIGHTEEN new volunteers have joined the St John Ambulance (SJA) Service under Batch Nine of SJA’s volunteer training program.
The training included three days of Advanced First Aid training before they were presented certificates of participation. At least three women were amongst the 18 volunteers.
St John Ambulance Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Kai Tane said volunteering with an ambulance service requires compassion, discipline, courage and a willingness to learn.
“It means being prepared to step forward when help is needed and serving others with professionalism and respect,” said Commissioner Tane.
The National St John Ambulance volunteer program provides Papua New Guineans with an opportunity to develop practical skills, support ambulance service activities and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
The 18 volunteers were formally presented with their Advanced First Aid certificates during a small ceremony at the national St John Ambulance headquarters in PortMoresby.
“By choosing to volunteer, you have made a commitment to give your time, energy and skills to help others,” Commissioner Tane said upon the handing out of the certificates.
The volunteer program has allowed participants to provide support to the administrative teams, assist at the National Ambulance Operations Centre and serve at community and public events.
“Every person within our organization whether a full-time staff member or a volunteer contributes to our mission to deliver trusted pre-hospital care and community health through partnership, training, and culturally appropriate, evidence-based practice,” said Commissioner Tane.
Following the completion of the training, some volunteers have gone on to doing further training as drivers, while others have expressed an interest to further their careers as ambulance officers.
Commissioner Tane encouraged the volunteers to uphold the organization’s values of People,Learning, Unity and Service as they continued their journey with St John.
“Your contribution matters, and we are grateful that you have chosen to servealongside us. To our new volunteers, welcome to the Green Angel family. Serve with compassion, remain humble, support your team and take pride in the positive difference you can make in the lives of others,” he said.
Commissioner Tane also acknowledged the Event Health Services team, instructors, mentors and staff who supported the volunteers throughout their training and onboarding.
