Flight Lieutenant Saffron Ferreira joined the Air Cadets when she was just 14 years old. Eleven years later, she is still at her home unit, 888 (Oldbury) Squadron, now serving as Squadron Commander.
At first, I was really against joining the Cadets, mainly because I had to wear a skirt. But because I was prone to quitting things before giving things a proper chance, my mum suggested I stick it out for six months. If I still didn’t like it after that, I could leave.
Saffron says there were many events and opportunities that changed her mind about the Cadets, but one experience stands out above all others: camp at Swynnerton.
The camp gave her the chance to build friendships across the Wing and take part in activities she would never have experienced elsewhere.
I reached the highest rank available to a cadet, Cadet Warrant Officer, and had some fantastic opportunities. Staying on as staff was a no-brainer. Once I had the opportunity, I knew I didn’t want to move to another squadron straight away. I wanted to stay in Oldbury, and that’s exactly what I did.
Last year, the previous Squadron Commander stepped down. Having already completed the commissioning process and become an officer within the organisation, Saffron felt it was the natural next step.
I’d always seen myself becoming a Squadron Commander one day, not necessarily at this squadron, but I always thought it would happen. I’m so happy it’s happened here because I’m able to give back to something that gave me so much.
Learning from Past Squadron Commanders
During her time as a cadet, Saffron served under four different Squadron Commanders. Each brought their own leadership style and left a lasting impression.
I’ve seen a lot of change and a lot of growth in the squadron, which has been really nice. All of my Squadron Commanders were very different, and I’ve taken something from each of them.
My last Squadron Commander is a personal friend and was an incredible mentor. He’s still involved in the organisation, which is great, and I think that shows how difficult it is to leave once you’ve experienced what the Cadets can offer.
For Saffron, the most rewarding part of volunteering is seeing young people succeed.
There’s something special about seeing cadets come together and achieve great things. It’s wonderful to know you’ve played a positive part in that. If it wasn’t for the cadets, their determination and positivity, I don’t think I’d feel the same way about it.
Become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer
If Saffron’s story has inspired you and you’d like to become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, you typically need to be 18 or older, pass a DBS (or equivalent) safeguarding check, and have an interest in mentoring youth.
You do not need a military background to join. The quickest way to get started is to complete an online expression of interest on the official website of your chosen youth organisation.
