Nine People Complete Endeavour Programme
Nine Bermudians — Roger Dill, Hannah Dill, Devon Soto, Noah Astwood, Derek Ingram Jr, Adonté Martin, JaVaughn Ible, Damani Assing, Lennox Pantry — successfully completed the seven-week Endeavour programme.
A spokesperson said, “Endeavour, a Bermuda-based charity that engages diverse youth in hands-on learning through sailing, has partnered with The Bermuda College Athora Division of Professional and Career Education to provide young Bermudians with maritime training, employability skills and career development opportunities.
“The Endeavour Maritime Career Springboard Programme offers Bermudian youth aged 16 and older with hands-on experience, skills development and industry exposure, preparing them for future careers in the maritime industry. Since 2018, 92 young Bermudians have completed the programme, with more than 70% now employed or continuing their education – many in the maritime sector.
“From January 12 to February 27, nine Bermudians aged 16 to 25 – three females and six males – successfully completed the seven-week programme. The group represented a diverse range of academic and career stages, including three high school students, one from CedarBridge Academy who is dual-enrolled at The Bermuda College; one from The Berkeley Institute; and a G.E.D. student from the Adult Education School. The cohort also included high school and college graduates, as well as current college students.
“Notably, five participants were first introduced to sailing through Endeavour’s STEAM Education through Sailing Programme, a five-day immersive learning experience offered to all students in Bermuda ages 11-12 years old. Of those, three advanced to complete Endeavour’s Graduate Programme, and two furthered their skills development through Endeavour’s Assistant Instructor Programme, then volunteered their time to support younger students.
“The programme continues to be accessible to participants of all experience levels, welcoming both advanced sailors and those with little to no prior sailing background. Notably, one participant advanced from Endeavour’s No Limits Sailing Programme, underscoring the organisation’s commitment to expanding opportunities for young people of all backgrounds and abilities.
“Eighteen-year-old Derek Ingram Jr. has made history as the first graduate of the No Limits Sailing Programme to progress into the Springboard Programme. Derek began sailing with Endeavour in 2017 and, over the course of nine years, developed his confidence and skills through the initiative.
“Through hands-on training, certifications, and mentorship, participants gained practical skills and valuable insight into maritime careers. All members of the 2026 cohort reported increased awareness of industry opportunities and greater confidence in pursuing careers in the sector.”
Mr Ingram Jr. shared about his experience, “I enjoyed exploring various businesses within the marine industry, and l have learned how different parts of the marine sector work together—from sailing and boat handling to safety procedures and the importance of maintaining equipment. I especially enjoyed learning about The Department of Marine & Ports Services and its ferry operations, which gave me a real appreciation for how the industry works together.”
Noah Astwood, 18, said, “Through this programme, I’ve strengthened my confidence, sailing and teaching skills, while opening my eyes to the many careers in Bermuda’s maritime industry. The mentorship and networking opportunities have inspired me to pursue my goals with purpose and determination.”
Roger Dill, 25, said, “The programme helped me understand how to begin a career in the maritime industry and what to expect. I especially valued the career days and certifications, which will support my future path.”
The spokesperson said, “A key milestone this year was that the programme was delivered entirely by alumni, demonstrating the strength of Endeavour’s development pathways and inspiring participants to envision their own success.”
“Each Springboard graduate has shown extraordinary dedication, and we are inspired by all they have achieved,” said Jah-Shon Smith, Endeavour East Chief Instructor. “Their growth, driven by commitment and hard work, is remarkable. We are particularly encouraged by their enthusiasm for exploring career paths, building connections, and embracing new experiences. Their success is a testament not only to their efforts but also to the guidance and support of their coaches, mentors, teachers, and families who supported them along the way. We can’t wait to see the incredible futures they will create and what they will accomplish next.”
Jennifer Pitcher, Endeavour’s Executive Director, said, “The maritime sector offers a world of exciting career opportunities—from marine engineering and vessel navigation to marine conservation, diving operations, boat handling and so much more. Through strong partnerships with Bermuda’s marine organisations, we are proud to provide Bermudian youth with hands-on training, mentorship, and career guidance to help shape the next generation of maritime professionals. We are immensely proud of each Endeavour Maritime Springboard Graduate and inspired by their achievements. We wish all our graduates the very best in their future endeavors.”
The spokesperson said, “Endeavour extends its appreciation to its marine partners and industry professionals, whose mentorship, expertise, and support provided invaluable hands-on learning and career exposure opportunities.
- Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo & Bermuda Zoological Society – Dr. Alex Amat & team
- Bermuda Coast Guard – Captain Jeff Patterson & Sergeant Richardson
- Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre – Scott Simmons & Peter Stickland
- Bermuda Shipping & Maritime Authority – Taran Card
- Bermuda Yacht Services – Mark Soares
- BIOS – Kaitlin Noyes, Claire Fox & team
- Department of Marine & Ports Services – J. Maquel Bailey, J. Maynard, J. Dyer & the rest of the crew
- K.S. Watersports – Kevin Sousa
- Ocean Sails – Stevie & Suzanne Hollis
- Spar Yard Marine Solutions Ltd. – Mark Goodwin
- Spirit of Bermuda & Bermuda Maritime Academy – David Goulbourne
- Waterstart – JP Skinner, Anne Kermode & Phoebe Barboza
- Teekay Tankers Ltd. – Angelique Burgess
“In the programme’s final week, five participants earned their RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification, while another five gained hands-on experience through job shadowing with our marine partners. Special thanks to Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo, Waterstart, Spirit of Bermuda, the Department of Marine & Ports Services, and Endeavour’s Maintenance Technician, Ian Morrell, for making these rewarding opportunities possible.”
“Endeavour’s marine partners play a vital role in inspiring Bermudian youth,” said Brittany Siddle, Community Engagement Coordinator. “Through their guidance, industry insight, and encouragement, they empower Bermuda’s next generation of maritime professionals to pursue their goals with confidence, ambition, and determination.”
“As an accredited Royal Yachting Association [RYA] training centre, Endeavour offers internationally recognised certifications, equipping participants with transferable skills for careers across the marine industry and beyond,” said Olivia Reilly, Endeavour’s Operations Manager. “These include RYA Sailing Levels 1–3, RYA Powerboat Levels 1-2, Seamanship, Safety Boat, First Aid, VHF Marine Radio Short Range Certificate [SRC], Safe & Fun Safeguarding, and for those interested in teaching sailing to youth, the RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification is also available. It opens doors to diverse pathways and exposes participants to exciting opportunities across the maritime industry.”
Karen Smith, Programme Coordinator of Bermuda College APACE, said, “Bermuda College is proud to partner with Endeavour in bridging the gap between education and industry. This programme exemplifies what becomes possible when academic institutions and community organisations align their strengths; we are able to meet the real and evolving needs of Bermuda’s maritime sector while creating flexible, accessible pathways for young people at every stage of their journey. By combining Bermuda College’s resources with Endeavour’s hands-on, experiential approach, we ensure that participants are not only workforce-ready but genuinely inspired to build careers right here in Bermuda.”
Mrs. Pitcher added, “Endeavour’s work is made possible through the generous support of our donors and partners. Special thanks to programme partners including The Bermuda College, The Berkeley Institute, and CedarBridge Academy, and all of the marine partners whose collaboration makes this programme possible. We’re deeply thankful to Endeavour’s donors including lead founding partner, Orbis Investments, as well as PwC Bermuda, Arch Capital Group Ltd., and the Centennial Bermuda Foundation. Thank you to Teekay Tankers Ltd. for supporting scholarships for the Endeavour Maritime Career Springboard Programme, and to Nicole Butterworth for dedicating her time and expertise to facilitate the Royal Yachting Association First Aid Course.”
The spokesperson said, “Endeavour will host the tenth cohort of the Maritime Career Springboard Programme from Monday, January 11 to Friday, February 26, 2027. Eligible candidates must be Bermudian, aged 16 or older, able to commit to the full programme, and demonstrate a positive attitude with a strong willingness to learn.
“Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, November 4, 2026, via email at education@endeavour.bm. To learn more about Endeavour’s programmes, visit Endeavour.bm.”
