Eleven young Bermudians who took to the sea as Endeavour sailing’s seventh cohort of its Springboard Programme were celebrated at a commencement ceremony on World Maritime Day.

The special event on September 26 was hosted by the National Museum of Bermuda at the Queen’s Exhibition Hall in Dockyard.

The participants, aged 16 to 19, said they benefited from their time and felt prepared to work in the maritime industry.

Students reported improved teamwork and communication skills, hands-on experience, and enhanced awareness of maritime career opportunities.

Jennifer Pitcher, Endeavour’s executive director, said: “We are extremely proud to celebrate the achievements of the 11 exceptional young Bermudians who put in a remarkable amount of commitment and efforts to develop their skills and knowledge during the seven-week programme.”

She said each had grown “tremendously” through dedication and hard work.

“Their keen enthusiasm to explore career development opportunities, build career connections and embrace new experiences is truly inspiring.”

Among graduates was Jibril Taylor, 18, who is working with Endeavour as a programme instructor intern.

He said: “The training and qualifications I obtained are very beneficial but it was also rewarding to meet new people including my fellow Springboard cohort, the coaches and all of the maritime industry professionals.”

He highlighted maritime career days for showing the roles and job pathways within the maritime sector.

Osiris Buffonge-Hunt, 18, another participant, said he was grateful for the opportunity to achieve multiple qualifications and hands-on experience.

He said: “It was challenging to balance my school commitments while completing the programme. However, I am proud that I was able to persevere and accomplish my goals.”

He said he was proud to have moved into the industry as a deckhand with Kirk’s Coral Reef Adventures.

Sivaja Perinchief, 17, said he joined out of “passion and love for sailing and encouragement from my coaches at Endeavour”.

“I really enjoyed the sailing aspects of the programme allowing me to improve my sailing skills further, as well as additional training opportunities that led me to obtain my Royal Yachting Association Dinghy Instructor qualification.

“Since completing the programme in February, I have continued to gain experience with Endeavour, putting my skills to good use — and over the summer I was able to work as a sailing instructor.”

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, told the ceremony that the students’ collective dedication was commendable.

He added: “I recognise the importance of nurturing home-grown talent in our industries.

“The skills you’ve acquired, from sailing fundamentals to safety and basic navigation, prepare you for both local and global opportunities in the maritime sector. Your success not only benefits you personally but also strengthens our economy and workforce, positioning Bermuda as a leader in the global maritime industry.

“Keep seizing the opportunities ahead, and rest assured that your government is committed to supporting you every step of the way.”

Endeavour, which partners with the Bermuda College Athora Division of Professional and Career Education, gave special thanks to all of the sponsors of the programme.

The next marine career springboard runs from January 6 through February 21.

Candidates must be Bermudian, aged 16 and above.

Those interested can e-mail education@endeavour.bm by October 22 for Zoom details to join a virtual information session on October 24 at 6pm.

Candidates must e-mail a cover letter outlining their interest in the programme, along with their résumé, by 5pm on November 1.