A $40,000 fundraising campaign was launched today to help prepare young people for a career in the maritime industry.

Sailing charity Endeavour has partnered with the international boating race SailGP for the second annual Endeavour x SailGP Inspire Fundraiser.

The money will go towards supporting young Bermudians who have completed Endeavour’s Maritime Career Springboard Programme, which puts teenagers and young adults through a seven week training course to prepare them for a career in the maritime industry and to gain work experience through the SailGP Inspire Careers Programme at international events during SailGP Season 3.

The Minister of Youth, Culture and Sport, Ernest Peets said: “I’ve learnt over the years that our kids need more opportunities, and the connection between sports and these types of opportunities are certainly things that our kids need today.”

The cash raised through the Inspire fundraiser will go towards sending students overseas for further training. Last year the money raised went towards enrolling young Bermudians in internships around the world.

Tom Miller, the chairman of Endeavour, said: “We think it’s a fabulous opportunity for our students to really see what’s out there and see how much there is in the world of sailing.”

Schereene Outerbridge, the head of events for SailGP Bermuda, added: “We take them on a career path – there are opportunities that we can open up to them in the maritime industry.

“It doesn’t just have to limit people to being on boat, building boats or being on the water – this expands across a number of different facets.”

She added: “We really want to highlight the fact that this doesn’t just benefit people on the ground, it’s taking them worldwide.”

Ms Outerbridge said that about 300 young people will also work with all ten sailing teams involved in SailGP throughout next month to help them prepare for the race on May 14 and 15.

Charles Jeffers II, the CEO of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, said sailing was “an indelible part of Bermuda’s maritime heritage”.

He added: “Sailing belongs to Bermuda – Black, White, young, old, and people of all abilities.

“The work that is being done with Endeavour and Inspire will level the playing field and expand access to all of Bermuda’s potential sailing fans.”

Those who wish to donate to the Endeavour x SailGP Inspire Fundraiser can do so here.