Endeavour Maritime Springboard Programme
Endeavour, a Bermuda-based charity that engages diverse youth in hands-on learning through sailing to build self-confidence and life skills, partnered with The Bermuda College Athora Division of Professional and Career Education to equip young Bermudians with maritime training, employability skills and career development opportunities.
A spokesperson said, “On September 25, Endeavour celebrated World Maritime Day by hosting the Maritime Springboard Career Commencement Ceremony, honouring the achievements of the young Bermudians who completed the 2025 programme. The event took place at the National Museum of Bermuda, inside the iconic Queen’s Exhibition Hall at the Royal Naval Dockyard.
“Eight Bermudians aged 16 to 23 including three females and five males successfully completed the seven-week programme from January 6th – February 21st, 2025. Six participants were high school students who balanced academic commitments while attending the programme: two from CedarBridge Academy, one from The Berkeley Institute, two G.E.D. students from the Adult Education School and one home school student. Two high school graduates already working in the maritime industry also took part.
“Five of the participants began their journey with Endeavour through the STEAM Education through Sailing Programme which is a five-day experience offered to all students in Bermuda ages 11-12 years old. Four continued on to complete Endeavour’s Graduate Programme, and three received leadership training through Endeavour’s Assistant Instructor Programme and volunteered their time to support youth in the Graduate Programme.
“A core objective of the Springboard Programme is to provide exposure to maritime careers by connecting Bermudian youth with industry professionals, enabling them to build their network while gaining real-world insight into the wide range of career opportunities, as well as the education and qualifications required to pursue them.
“All members of the 2025 cohort reported increased awareness of maritime career opportunities and expressed feeling better prepared for employment in the maritime industry upon completing the programme.”
19-year-old Siyon Paynter stated, “The Springboard experience was the start of a journey that shaped me in ways I never expected. Beyond the certifications, I gained leadership skills, a sense of responsibility, and a love for teaching. Now, as a Programme Instructor Intern with Endeavour, I’ve developed a deeper respect for the ocean and my role as a mentor. Each day on the water reinforces safety, teamwork, and confidence-skills that apply far beyond sailing. This experience has strengthened my passion for teaching and my commitment to Bermuda’s maritime community.”
19-year-old Aidan de Frias shared, “My understanding of the maritime industry has grown as I discovered many opportunities I wasn’t aware of before the programme. Work shadowing with the Bermuda Coast Guard and Waterstart were unforgettable experiences that shaped my future career plans.” Aidan encourages other young Bermudians to “break out of your shell, join the Endeavour Maritime Springboard Programme, and replace self-doubt with the confidence to learn and work as a team. You’ll learn to sail, operate powerboats, master the radio, and unlock incredible maritime career paths that can take you further than you ever imagined.”
Jennifer Pitcher, Endeavour’s Executive Director, shared: “Each Springboard Graduate has shown tremendous dedication, and we are proud and inspired by all they have accomplished. Each of them has shown remarkable growth, driven by their commitment and hard work. 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 and wish them continued success as they pursue their goals.”
Jason Hayward, Minister of Economy and Labour, shared during his remarks at the event: “Endeavour continues to demonstrate how innovative programmes can inspire and empower our young people. Through this initiative, participants have not only gained critical skills and certifications but also discovered a sense of purpose and possibility within the maritime industry. Their success is a testament to the power of collaboration between education, industry, and community partners in building brighter futures for Bermudians.”
Karen Smith, Programme Coordinator of Bermuda College APACE, said: “Bermuda College remains steadfast in its commitment to responding to Bermuda’s evolving workforce needs. By leveraging strong community partnerships and shared resources, we continue to prepare individuals to meaningfully contribute to the island’s economic and social development. Our collaboration with Endeavour exemplifies how innovation and teamwork can create pathways for Bermudians to thrive in high-demand industries.”
The spokesperson said, “The Hon. Minister Hayward was joined by Bermuda College President Dr. David Sam and Robyn Carroll of Orbis Investments to present each Springboard Graduate with their certificates, along with a copy of The Bermuda Boater generously donated by author Ralph Richardson. Special thanks to the National Museum for kindly hosting the event, along with Fourways Catering and Great Sound Lighting and Audio Visual for their support in making the event a success.
“2025 Endeavour Maritime Springboard Highlights Video: https://youtu.be/-WYaHvKboIk.
“Heartfelt thanks to the organisations and professionals who were pivotal to the success of the 2025 Endeavour Maritime Career Springboard Programme:
- Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo & Bermuda Zoological Society – Dr. Alex Amat & team
- Bermuda Coast Guard – Captain Jeff Patterson & Sergeant Richardson
- Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre – Steve Pegg
- Bermuda Shipping & Maritime Authority – Taran Card
- Bermuda Yacht Services – Mark Soares
- BIOS – Kaitlin Noyes, Claire Fox & team
- Department of Marine & Ports Services – Mario Thompson, J. Maquel Bailey, J. Maynard, Cal Burgess, Shaun Dill, & the rest of the crew!
- K.S. Watersports – Kevin Sousa & Aaron Lindsay
- Ocean Sails – Stevie & Suzanne Hollis
- PW Marine – Stephen Cox
- Spar Yard Marine Solutions Ltd. – Mark Goodwin and team
- Spirit of Bermuda – Jamila Hanley, David Goulbourne and Crew
- Waterstart – JP Skinner, Anne Kermode and Phoebe Barboza
- Teekay Tankers Ltd. – Angelique Burgess
- Fiona Beck – Advisor to Google and Former CEO of Southern Cross Cable Ltd.”
Jah-Shon Smith, Endeavour East Chief Instructor, and a [2021] Endeavour Springboard Graduate shared, “We are deeply grateful to all of Endeavour’s partners whose support makes this programme possible. Their commitment is helping to inspire the next generation of Bermudian mariners and maritime professionals, providing invaluable insight into the industry and practical guidance for achieving success while encouraging them to pursue their dreams with purpose and determination.”
Olivia Reilly, Endeavour’s Operations Manager explained, “The hands-on training provides Bermudian youth with the opportunity to earn internationally recognised qualifications, building a strong foundation of maritime knowledge and skills that are transferable across a wide range of career paths. It also introduces participants to new opportunities and areas of interest within the maritime industry.
“Endeavour is accredited by the Royal Yachting Association [RYA], allowing us to offer training that leads to internationally recognised certifications, including RYA Sailing Levels 1, 2, and 3, RYA Powerboat Level 2, Seamanship, Safety Boat, First Aid, Safe & Fun Safeguarding, and the VHF Marine Radio Short Range Certificate [SRC]. For those interested in teaching youth sailing, the RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification is also available.”
The spokesperson said, “All members of the 2025 cohort reported that they benefited from hands-on training, peer mentoring, and a variety of learning experiences that strengthened their teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Through interactive career development workshops, participants also learned resume best practices and created personalised action plans to support their job search and long-term career goals.
“In the final week of the programme, three participants successfully earned their RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification, while four others gained valuable real-world experience through job shadowing with Endeavour’s marine partners. Special thanks to the Bermuda Coast Guard, PW Marine, K.S. Watersports, Waterstart, and Endeavour’s Maintenance Technician, Ian Morrell, for providing meaningful and rewarding job shadowing opportunities.”
Mrs. Pitcher added, “Endeavour’s work is made possible through the generous support of our donors and partners. We are proud to partner with The Bermuda College and marine partners across the island to provide training and career development opportunities that shape brighter futures for Bermuda’s youth. We are especially grateful to Endeavour’s lead founding partner, Orbis Investments, for their generous support, as well as to key donors including Arch Capital Group Ltd., PwC Bermuda, and the Centennial Bermuda Foundation. Special thanks to Teekay Tankers Ltd. for supporting the 2025 Springboard cohort, and to Nicole Butterworth for donating her time and expertise to facilitate the RYA First Aid Course.”
The spokesperson said, “The next dates for the Endeavour Maritime Career Springboard Programme are Monday, January 12th through Friday, February 27th, 2026. Candidates must be Bermudian, 16 and older, be able to commit for the duration of the programme, and have a positive attitude and strong willingness to learn.
“Candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter outlining their interest in the programme along with their resume via email to education@endeavour.bm by 5pm on November 1st.
“Learn more about the programme at the Information Session at The Bermuda College on Tuesday, October 21st at 6pm. RSVP to education@endeavour.bm by October 20th.
“Visit Endeavour.bm to learn more about Endeavour’s work that is positively impacting Bermuda’s youth.”
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