The Sint Maarten Yacht Club, in collaboration with the Kids at Sea Foundation, is thrilled to announce the launch of a comprehensive three-month training program designed to equip young St. Maarteners with essential skills for a career in the marine industry. The program, which began on May 21st, has welcomed three enthusiastic participants between the ages of 19 and 30.
Funded by Resources for Community Resilience (R4CR), this initiative aims to provide a solid foundation in maritime skills and certifications that are crucial for success in the industry. The curriculum includes extensive training in sailing and instruction on small boat handling, ensuring participants gain hands-on experience and develop their seamanship abilities.
Participants will also have the opportunity to obtain the International Yacht Training Sailing (IYT) diploma, STCW certification, and a Powerboat license. These credentials are recognized globally and will significantly enhance the employability of graduates within the international yachting community.
“The collaboration between the Sint Maarten Yacht Club and Kids at Sea Foundation marks an exciting milestone in our commitment to fostering local talent and supporting the youth of St. Maarten,” said Saskia Revelman, Manager at the Sint Maarten Yacht Club. “This program not only provides critical skills and certifications but also opens up numerous career opportunities in the vibrant marine sector.”
Lorraine Talmi, President of the Kids at Sea Foundation, added, “We are passionate about empowering young individuals through education and hands-on training. This program is a testament to our dedication to nurturing the next generation of maritime professionals.”
The training program has been designed to be intensive and immersive, offering participants a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Over the course of three months, the students will receive mentorship from seasoned professionals and gain insights into various aspects of marine operations, safety procedures, and boat maintenance.
The Sint Maarten Yacht Club and Kids at Sea Foundation express their gratitude to R4CR for their support, which has made this program possible. They are confident that this initiative will have a lasting positive impact on the participants and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the local marine industry.
For more information about the training program or to inquire about future opportunities, please contact saskia@smyc.com