Endeavour hosted a women’s sailing event focused on empowerment, connection and inspiration in celebration of International Women’s Day.

The annual Women on the Water event brought together 19 women aged between 12 and 19 representing eight public and private schools.

Sari Smith, a 19-year-old Bermuda College student and 2021 Endeavour Springboard graduate, said: “It was fantastic to see young female sailors from different backgrounds come together, support each other and make new friends.

“It was inspiring to hear from the guest speakers, who are excellent role models encouraging young women to celebrate their talents, follow their dreams and accomplish their goals.

“Young women need to be supported and have their achievements recognised and celebrated.”

Nijanae Pemberton, an 18-year-old CedarBridge Academy student and 2022 Endeavour Springboard graduate, added: “It was incredible to see young women supportive of each other, full of enthusiasm and curiosity as they learnt more about themselves and each other.

“It is important to encourage our female youth to get involved with sailing, towards an increased female participation in sailing and maritime opportunities.

“I look forward to seeing greater female representation in sailing and the maritime industry in the future.”

The female-only event, held in March, aims to promote opportunities for a diverse group of young women to learn from one another and be mentored.

Attendees listened to words of encouragement from female role models including professional sailor and triathlete Emily Nagel.

Ms Nagel, who is a performance data analyst for the British Olympic sailing team, said: “Say yes to new experiences to gain on-water time. Just put yourself out there and have a good attitude. It will result in amazing opportunities while growing your skills and confidence.

“Believe in yourself, especially in the sport of sailing,. If someone says you can’t do something, use that as encouragement to prove them wrong. You are capable. Don’t be afraid to fail.

“Embrace the opportunities to learn and grow.”

There were also talks by Mia and Jennifer Page, cofounders of natural beauty business Cassine, on entrepreneurship and sustainability, and by Kallie Marcus, owner of Kinetix, a yoga, gymnastics and aerial arts business, on positive self-esteem and healthy minds and bodies.