Second Star Sailing, a sailing and powerboating school located in Jolly Harbour, is offering courses at special rates to the country’s fisherfolk and young people.
This is to provide the country’s next generation of sailors and fishers with Royal Yachting Academy (RYA) and local ADOMS-certified courses “to ensure safety and professionalism on the water”.
“It’s important to have certain certifications. We see that in Antigua this aspect can be improved amongst persons who operate vessels,” said spokesperson Attieke Desouza, who initially joined the school as an intern.
“What we decided to do this year was to create special packages for the fishermen and women in Antigua. To operate a vessel, you’re required to have the proper certification.
“Our package includes the RYA SRC/VHF course, RYA first aid course, RYA powerboat level two course, and ADOMS boatmaster grade three course.”
Desouza explained more about the internship initiative.
“This was the second year Second Star Sailing launched the ‘Woman at the Helm’ internship programme for local females from Antigua and Barbuda. The programme provides comprehensive knowledge of practical sailing and other aspects of the industry, to show different career opportunities for women,” she said.
“The two interns of the year participate in RYA practical and theory courses to get their certification, and are involved in the day to day operation of the sailing school, whether it be in maintenance of the boats, practical sailing or participating in charters.
“Second Star Sailing also participates in Antigua Sailing Week, and this year I and another intern also took part in that.”
The company is also implementing an outreach programme and is interested in partnering with local schools to provide students with a glimpse of possible career opportunities in the industry.
Desouza told Observer, “We participated in the Antigua and Barbuda Yachting and Marine Association industry showcase in November, and the Antigua Charter Yacht Show in December, where schools came and we were able to share what we teach at Second Star Sailing school.
“A lot of the kids were like, ‘oh you’re showing us this but can this be done in Antigua?’ So we’re really trying to highlight the different jobs that are available locally.
“For example we had St Mary’s Secondary School for their career day. A group of students and teachers came to our base in Jolly Harbour. They were able to go on the sailboat to see how it works, see the engine, hoist the sails, learn some knots and ask questions.
“With the outreach programme we’re aiming to raise awareness among the younger generation about the range of job opportunities available in Antigua and Barbuda,” Desouza added.