My name is Zoe Taylor, and I am a Firefighter with West Midlands Fire Service.
Being selected for my second Operation Florian deployment in March 2025 came as a huge honour. I knew that travelling and working in Zimbabwe was going to be a totally different escapade from my previous trip to Macedonia (also with Operation Florian). And, I wasn’t wrong…
Connecting in Addis Ababa airport in Ethiopia and meeting part of the team to continue our journey, I knew it was going to be just as rewarding. Finally, when reaching Bulawayo and meeting the rest of the 23-strong team, I wholeheartedly knew I’d made the right decision. We were all from different backgrounds and stages in our careers, including students from the University of Lancashire who were studying fire and leadership.
I was tasked with instructing core skills as part of a four-person team, all from varying brigades. This sometimes made teaching tricky, due to the differing techniques and standards throughout the UK.
Despite the challenges, we persevered and ensured the delivery of information was consistent and relatable to the types of incidents the students normally face in Bulawayo. The intense heat, long hours, and large student group made it tough, but I think it was one of the most lively and fulfilling roles to have had.
The respect and willingness to learn from the firefighters of Bulawayo was inspiring and heartwarming. Their attitude towards me and the other instructors was fantastic. The welcome from the mayor, councillors, and other delegates was overwhelming and a true reflection of their gratitude.
I’m confident that the continued commitment to training is paying off out there, with a noticeable improvement in emergency response, techniques, training, and, most importantly, lifesaving PPE and equipment donated by Operation Florian. I truly feel that being part of this mission made a real difference.
Even though our primary visit was to train, on the weekend, I was privileged to go on a day’s safari and experience the magnificent Victoria Falls, which was epic.
It’s hard to put into words how awesome the trip to Bulawayo was and the life-changing effect it had on me. I will always be grateful for the opportunity given to assist Operation Florian and the people of Zimbabwe.
I look forward to offering support in any future projects that the charity devises, and would like to recognise the time and dedication put into the planning and organisation of these trips by the charity and all its volunteers.
