Seventeen-year-old Jiya Jadhav has earned one of the highest honours for young volunteers in the United States after being named the 2025 “National Junior Firefighter of the Year” by the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC). The Indian-origin high school senior from New York has built a strong record of community service through the New Hyde Park Junior Fire Department, demonstrating leadership, discipline and a clear commitment to public safety. Her recognition highlights the expanding role of young volunteers in supporting emergency services across the United States.
Jiya Jadhav’s outstanding credentials
Jadhav received the NVFC’s top junior award following exceptional performance in training and volunteer duties. Her involvement includes a consistent attendance record, leadership roles within her team and participation in programmes that enhance both operational skills and public engagement. She stands out among her peers for a level of professionalism and dedication rarely seen at such a young age.The National Junior Firefighter of the Year honour, sponsored by California Casualty, celebrates young volunteers who display remarkable initiative and community focus. It recognises junior members who take responsibility, develop leadership qualities and contribute meaningfully to local safety efforts. Recipients often set standards that influence volunteer culture within their fire departments. Many young girls in particular may see her journey as motivation to explore roles in public safety and crisis response.Junior firefighter programmes have become important pipelines for future recruitment. They support skill development, community awareness and civic responsibility from an early age. Recognition at a national level strengthens the value of these initiatives and may prompt more departments to invest in advanced training, mentorship and youth leadership opportunities.
What lies ahead
Jadhav is expected to attend a national recognition event in New York City later in October. Her department may continue to spotlight her success as an example for new volunteers. Meanwhile, organisations supporting the fire service could use this moment to push for further youth involvement and updated outreach strategies.