Youth Festival 2021 New programme to attract future professionals in maritime industry |18 August 2021
Ms Belmont addressing the gathering during the launch of the new association (Photo: Joena Meme)
Young people with an ambition to develop a career in the maritime industry, with great passion for marine activities, can start to get accustomed to various areas of the field through a newly set-up youth organisation which is targeting to promote the industry.
An initiative of young consultant Rodney Bonne with the support of the Seychelles National Youth Council (SNYC) and other partners, the Seychelles Youth Ocean Explorers will give training in various areas, including first aid, lifeguard, snorkelling and basic boat handling.
The new organisation which is in the process of becoming a non-governmental organisation (NGO) was officially made public on Saturday by the chief executive of the SNYC, Penny Belmont during a short ceremony at the Port Launay beach.
The launch, which was witnessed by different partners and sponsors, also marked the official closing of the 2021 Youth Festival.
Through theory, along with practical sessions, young people with interests in the maritime fields will acquire the basics and will be officially recognised through certified attestation from associated partners.
Mr Bonne said the aim of the programme is to bring together youths with a common interest which is the maritime sector, thus preparing them for their future career.
He added that they want to promote a sense of responsibility among the youth, in terms of marine environment protection, while it will be also an opportunity to interact and develop lifelong friendships.
Mr Bonne also invited anyone, or organisation who wish to come onboard and bring their support towards the cause.
The group is accepting young people between the ages of 15 and 18 years, and according to Mr Bonne, it is now in a pilot phase, involving three public schools.
He explained that later on, the programme will be open to all individuals who wish to join.
The accompanying photographs show some highlights of the launch ceremony on Saturday.
Roland Duval
