The RYS Foundation held a reception to bring together the Isle of Wight maritime industry to accelerate careers for young Islanders.
The event was held on Thursday at the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes and was attended by Isle of Wight High Sheriff Jacque Gazzard, and both Island MPs Richard Quigley and Joe Robertson.
Also in attendance were key people from UKSA, the IW College, schools, boatbuilders, harbour authorities and many other maritime related businesses.
Ten enthusiastic young people recently supported by the foundation helped to host the evening. They were all keen to talk about how the charity had provided them with guidance, grants and career opportunities.
The event generated new connections and ideas to follow up over the coming months.
The foundation is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year.
It has supported more than 300 young Islanders into training, education and employment in the Island's marine and maritime industries.
It has awarded over half a million pounds in grants, supporting jobs ranging from marine engineering to superyacht crew positions.
Founded in 2015 to honour the bicentenary of the Royal Yacht Squadron, the foundation was set up with a single aim - to give back to the Isle of Wight community by empowering local youth with the skills and confidence to succeed.
Carron Snagge, chairman of the foundation, said: “The foundation was created to serve the community that has supported the Squadron for generations.
“We knew there were many talented young people on the Island who simply needed a helping hand to realise their potential, and ten years on, we’ve seen what that support can achieve.”
Working with schools, colleges, local authorities, training providers, and employers, the foundation offers funding, usually between £250 and £3,000, and occasionally more, to support young people aged 15 to 29.
This funding helps cover training costs, apprenticeships, equipment, travel, and essential qualifications, breaking down the financial barriers that often prevent island youth from progressing.
A careers fair will be held on October 1, 2026, with around 40 employers.
If you are aged 15 to 29 and live on the Island and are interested in a marine related career, the RYS Foundation would love to hear from you.
Applications are welcomed by the trustees. Email a short statement of your goals and how they can help to applications@rysfoundation.org.uk
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