Six young women from the Greater Trail area of the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB) recently took part in this year’s Kootenay Ignite Firefighting Camp, hosted by the Creston Valley Fire Department, marking the largest delegation yet from the region in the camp’s three-year history.
The camp, designed for female youth aged 15–18, is an intensive 2.5-day program focused on leadership, mentorship, and hands-on firefighting skills. Participants rotated through practical skill-building stations including live fire training, auto extrication, high-angle rescue, forcible entry, hose operations, and emergency medical response.
Among the highlight moments was Calli Martin from Trail, B.C., who received the $500 Associated Fire Bursary in recognition of her courage, perseverance, and teamwork. She intends to put the award towards her ambitious future goals—pursuing her paramedicine degree at JIBC, training to become a First Responder, and obtaining her NFPA 1001 certification to become a firefighter.
Leading the RDKB team was Carlene Pires, Kootenay Boundary Regional Fire Rescue (KBRFR) firefighter, who served as both an Instructor and one of Kootenay Ignite’s Board Directors.
“This camp is about so much more than firefighting,” said Carlene Pires.
“It’s about showing young women that they belong in this field—and in leadership. We’re building confidence, community, and opportunity. Watching them rise to every challenge this weekend was inspiring.”
There was a jump in participation this year, with six girls attending from the Greater Trail area—triple the number from 2024. All were outfitted in full turnout gear provided by Kootenay Boundary Regional Fire Rescue, helping them train with confidence and authenticity.
“Kootenay Ignite was an unforgettable experience from the skill stations to just talking to all the girls. The weekend taught me so much and pushed me out of my comfort zone, it’s insane how much a learnt in just 3 days. I would highly recommend this camp for anybody who has thought about going into firefighting. It’s a great experience and you learn quite a lot. I met lots of amazing girls that I will continue to talk to over the years. Thank you KBRFR for sponsoring me!” said Trail participant Ava Prough, reflecting on her experience.
Trail participant Calli Martin agreed.
“Being a part of camp Kootenay Ignite was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had. It gave me a place where I could be myself, open up, and grow alongside other who were doing the same. The connections I made and the lessons I learned helped me step out of my comfort zone, and realize the kind of leader I want to be. I was also incredibly grateful to receive a bursary, which reminded me that people believe in me and my potential.” said Martin.
2025 RDKB FireStarters:
- Ava Prough
- Ainsley Zeiler
- Kaleigh Purchase
- Calli Martin
- Payton Robbins
- Lucy Leroux
The success of Kootenay Ignite continues to grow thanks to dedicated partners and sponsors from the Greater Trail area, including KBRFR, IAFF Local 941 Trail Firefighters Charitable Society, Thea Hanson Real Estate, and JL Crowe Secondary School.
To learn more about Kootenay Ignite and how to get involved in 2026, visit: www.kootenayignite.ca or follow them on Facebook and Instagram @KootenayIgnite
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