Applications are open for the San Francisco Fire Youth Academy

Antoine Davis, a Captain with the San Francisco Fire Department, leads the Fire Youth Academy, a free 15-week program for youth aged 14-18. The program, started by the San Francisco Black Firefighters Association, teaches essential life-saving skills and promotes community engagement. Participants learn valuable skills such as time management, stress management, and accountability, which are essential in both firefighting and personal development. In addition to practical skills, the academy includes courses on financial literacy and resume building to prepare students for future careers. Applications for the academy are open until August 11, attracting a diverse group of students from across San Francisco.

Davis emphasizes the importance of instilling a sense of community pride and responsibility in participants. The program also aims to increase diversity within the San Francisco Fire Department, which has seen a rise in Black firefighters from just four in 1970 to 181 today. The academy's focus on soft skills and community involvement reflects a broader commitment to supporting local youth and fostering leadership.