Story perspectives

Documentary Chronicles Youth EMT Journey from Struggles to Success

9/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Mimi Chakarova's documentary "In The Red: Changing Lives to Save Lives" premiered on Sept. 22 at Grand Lake Theatre, Oakland.
It follows six youths of color in the Bay Area Youth EMT Program, detailing their challenges and growth.
Participant Joseph Stubbs shares his journey from incarceration to redemption through the program.
The film highlights struggles, including training difficulties and personal setbacks, while Wellington Jackson, the program founder, acts as a mentor.
Post-pandemic enrollment has dropped, with only 65% of students passing, down from 75%.

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Story summary

Mimi Chakarova's documentary "In The Red: Changing Lives to Save Lives" premiered on Sept. 22 at Grand Lake Theatre, Oakland.
It follows six youths of color in the Bay Area Youth EMT Program, detailing their challenges and growth.
Participant Joseph Stubbs shares his journey from incarceration to redemption through the program.
The film highlights struggles, including training difficulties and personal setbacks, while Wellington Jackson, the program founder, acts as a mentor.
Post-pandemic enrollment has dropped, with only 65% of students passing, down from 75%.