Participants in a charity’s maritime programme have lauded the opportunities it created for them, including pathways to jobs in the sector.

Endeavour’s Maritime Career Springboard Programme offers young Bermudians hands-on experience, skills development and exposure to the maritime industry.

Cristian Roque, a Springboard graduate who works as a sailing instructor and captain, said: “The programme genuinely took me from zero to hero.”

He explained: “Going into the programme, I had very minimal sailing experience and absolutely no experience teaching.

“By the time I completed it, I had developed the skills and confidence to do both.”

Mr Roque, 25, said the programme helped him to discover a passion “that I never imagined would become such a big part of my life”.

He has since continued to develop his skills and qualifications, becoming a Royal Yachting Association senior instructor, RYA powerboat instructor and RYA VHF (radio) instructor, as well as obtaining his Bermuda captain’s licence.

“I’ve also been fortunate enough to complete multiple ocean crossings and gain valuable experience in different aspects of the maritime industry,” he said.

One of the most rewarding parts of his career has been having the opportunity to teach and inspire young people through sailing, Mr Roque added.

Damani Assing, a 2026 Springboard graduate, said the scheme — including the practical aspects — had benefited her immensely.

She said: “The programme introduces participants to new opportunities, teaches practical maritime skills, including sailing, and helps build the confidence needed to navigate real-life situations.”

The Bermuda College student said she was impressed by the “the sense of community” the programme offered.

Ms Assing is pursuing studies in marine conservation at the college but outside school, she works at Waterstart, where she continues to build her experience and develop maritime skills.

Elijah Samuels challenged the island’s youth to enter the programme.

The 22-year-old said: “It can help them discover interests they never knew they had and show them that there are opportunities both in Bermuda and overseas.

“My own experience is an example of how participating in a programme like this can open doors to a much bigger world.”

Mr Samuels has completed his yachtmaster offshore power and sail qualifications.

During the summer he worked as a local charter captain with Traveler Charters on a 50-foot vessel, gaining solid experience while working towards his long-term goals.

Jibril Taylor, another graduate of the programme, said it provided him with “pivotal experience”, which has allowed him to grow in the field.

The 20-year-old advised young Bermudians to participate in the scheme, since it “opens up a whole industry of opportunities like jobs, sports, travel and much more”.

The 2024 Springboard graduate said he wished he had stared it sooner.

He challenged young people with an interest in the sector to “join us in the world of the water”.