A charity offering young Bermudians hands-on experience, skills development and exposure to the maritime sector marked World Maritime Day with the graduation of a cohort from its flagship programme.

The graduates, aged 16 to 25, completed the seven-week programme offered by Endeavour from January 12 to February 27.

It was delivered in partnership with the Bermuda College’s Athora Division of Professional and Career Education.

The group included students from CedarBridge Academy, The Berkeley Institute, the Adult Education School, the Bermuda College and high school and college graduates.

They were hailed in a ceremony at the Queen’s Exhibition Hall of the National Museum of Bermuda in Dockyard on September 24, designated World Maritime Day.

Attendees included Andrew Murdoch, the Governor, with Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors and Ali Arouzi, vice president of the Bermuda College.

A spokeswoman for the charity said the cohort joins a community of 92 Springboard alumni grown since the programme’s inception in 2018, more than 70 per cent of whom are now employed or continuing their education, many in Bermuda’s maritime sector.

Hannah Dill, a 2026 Springboard Graduate and a student at The Berkeley Institute, said: “I enjoyed the experience of learning and seeing new things during the programme.

“My knowledge of maritime career pathways has increased immensely due to not only hearing about it but going first-hand and seeing the different industries.

“I would recommend this programme to other people because I think it would put them on the right path to achieve their goals.”

JaVaughn Ible, another graduate who was part of Endeavour’s instructor intern programme, said: “I really enjoyed learning about so many opportunities and discovering more things to learn about in the maritime industry.

“I would recommend this programme to others because it expands your skills while increasing your knowledge about maritime job opportunities.”

The spokeswoman said this year marked a milestone for the charity, as it was the first time Endeavour’s entire instructional team was Bermudian, comprising Springboard graduates.

Ms Furbert said: “Cohorts like this one, shaped by Endeavour’s Maritime Career Springboard Programme, prove that our young people deserve our continued investment and a voice as partners, not just beneficiaries.

“Now, graduates, you carry the responsibility to share this opportunity with your friends and peers across our island, and I charge you to keep reaching, keep leading and continue to be great.”

Karen Smith, programme co-ordinator of the Apace programme, congratulated the group.

Ms Smith said: “These graduates remind us that career pathways become more meaningful when young people have the chance to explore them first-hand.

“Through our partnership with Endeavour, participants gain practical skills, meet industry professionals and begin to see where their interests can take them.

“Seeing former Springboard graduates now leading Endeavour’s instructional team is especially encouraging.

“It shows how investing in young Bermudians can come full circle, with graduates building careers and helping the next generation find their way.”

Jennifer Pitcher, Endeavour’s executive director, said every youth should have an opportunity to experience their true potential.

She said: “Through our No Limits Sailing Programme, we are proud to create a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where students with autism and other neurodivergent learners can learn, explore and thrive, both on and off the water.”

She highlighted the journey of graduate Derek Ingram Jr, who viewed the programme as a springboard to his maritime career.

Ms Pitcher added: “Each Springboard graduate has shown tremendous dedication, and we are proud of all they have accomplished.

“Their enthusiasm for exploring career opportunities, building connections and embracing new experiences is truly inspiring.

“Their success reflects not only their efforts and determination but also the encouragement and support of their coaches, mentors, teachers and families.

“We look forward to seeing what the future holds for each of them.”

In the final week of the programme, five participants in the programme attained Royal Yachting Association Dinghy Instructor qualifications.

The group shadowed Endeavour’s marine partners.

All reported greater awareness of maritime careers and said they felt better prepared for employment in the industry.

For more information, visit Endeavour.bm.