JONATHAN Kave, a newly graduated trainee ambulance officer with the Bravo Crew, was diligently washing down the ambulance and decontaminating equipment on Christmas afternoon when the next shift crew walked over. Jonathan is one of 19 new ambulance officers who graduated on November 27 after successfully completing the rigorous 10-week Ambulance Officer Level One Course at the National Ambulance Education College.
As he wrapped up his final day shift (6 AM–6 PM) before transitioning to night shifts
later in the week, Jonathan reflected on his experiences so far.
“Today, I’ve responded to six different emergencies,” he shared, his voice a mix of
exhaustion and fulfilment. “These ranged from a motor vehicle collision to a drowning
incident and other medical conditions.
The ambulance I’m assigned to is one of the clinician units, which responds to cases requiring critical medical assistance.”
This shift marked Jonathan’s third ride-along as a trainee ambulance officer. “I find this
job incredibly satisfying,” he said. “Helping someone in need and seeing the gratitude
from them or their families is truly heart-warming.”
Jonathan’s journey into emergency medical services is deeply personal. In August
2023, his first encounter with the National St John Ambulance (NStJA) left a lasting
impression.
“My dad, an oral cancer patient, became unresponsive and stopped breathing. We
called the ambulance, and when the officers arrived, they stabilised him, gave him
oxygen, and transported him to Port Moresby General Hospital,” Jonathan recounted.
“At the time, I didn’t understand much about what was happening, I just thought we
were losing him.”
His father was later discharged and traveled to the Philippines for further treatment,
but he passed away that same year.
Despite the loss, Jonathan never forgot the compassion and professionalism of the “Green Angels” who came to his family’s aid.
After completing his studies in Information Technology at Don Bosco Technical
Institute, Jonathan saw an advertisement for first responder training and decided to apply.
In December, he completed the one-week training and began volunteering with
NStJA under the Event Health Services. His dedication led him to a role as a medical
call-taker at the National Ambulance Operations Command Centre.
When the recruitment call for ambulance officers was announced, Jonathan applied and was accepted.
At the National Ambulance Education College, during a casual conversation, he
discovered that one of his educators had been part of the ambulance crew that had
responded to his father’s emergency. For Jonathan, this revelation deepened his
sense of purpose.
“Working as a trainee ambulance officer is more than just a dream come true for me,”
he said.
“It’s a way to give back to the organisation that helped my family and to serve
my community and country.”
Jonathan looks forward to completing his trainee program and is excited about the
opportunities that lie ahead. His journey is a testament to resilience, gratitude, and a
heartfelt commitment to helping others.
