We are delighted to announce that we are once again proud to sponsor a local Manx youth to participate in the prestigious annual Isle of Man Tall Ship Experience.
This sponsorship forms part of our #Making40Matter initiative – a year-long campaign to mark 40 years in business by giving back to the local communities in which we work as well as supporting causes close to our heart.
This year's Isle of Man Tall Ship Experience will be the largest yet, with a record 24 young people from the Island embarking on the adventure of a lifetime. Organised by local maritime cluster organisation, Isle of Man Maritime, the programme offers Manx youth the opportunity to develop valuable life skills, build confidence, and gain hands-on sailing experience.
Commenting on their sponsorship, Director of Sentient International, Sharon Mellor, said:
"As a proud member of Isle of Man Maritime, we are delighted to support the Isle of Man Tall Ship initiative.
"It fits perfectly with our #Making40Matter campaign, which is all about giving back to the communities that have supported us over the last four decades.
"To be able to provide a young person with an experience that gives them insight into the world of maritime and the career opportunities available within the industry, whilst teaching them transferable skills, is invaluable."
The journey for this year's youths will begin in the UK where they will join the Pelican of London – a unique square-rigged sailing ship and sail training vessel. With her distinctive raked masts, the Pelican of London is specifically designed to provide a challenging yet supportive environment for learning the art of traditional seamanship. During the week-long voyage back to the Isle of Man, participants will work as part of the crew, taking on everything from hoisting sails and steering at the helm to navigating and keeping watch, all while experiencing the camaraderie and adventure of life at sea.
Lee Clarke, Managing Director of Isle of Man Maritime, added:
"We are extremely grateful to Sentient International for their continued sponsorship and support of our Tall Ship initiative. Their commitment not only helps young people access this unique opportunity but also reinforces the strength of our Island's maritime community.
"The Tall Ship initiative continues to be a flagship example of how collaboration between local businesses and organisations can make a tangible difference in young people's lives, inspiring them to embrace adventure, teamwork, and personal growth."
About Isle of Man Maritime
Isle of Man Maritime is a not-for-profit organisation, which was formed to develop, support and promote the Isle of Man's growing maritime sector. One of its core objectives is to protect and promote globally the interests of the Isle of Man maritime sector whilst working closely with the Isle of Man Ship Registry to highlight why the Isle of Man is a centre of maritime excellence.
It also aims to promote careers in maritime through education and providing opportunities and pathways for those interested in the sector.
It provides an open forum to discuss ideas, opportunities and issues related to the Isle of Man Maritime sector and a unified industry perspective and feedback to the Isle of Man Government on proposed legislative changes and government initiatives affecting the Isle of Man maritime sector. For more information visit https://maritime.im.