Four matrics are preparing for a two-week trip to Spain to learn about the international superyacht industry.
Simamkele Ntingiso, Nhlakanipho Lebengu, and Liqhawe Mdoda, from the Lawhill Maritime Centre at Simon’s Town School and Tygerberg High School pupil Liyabona Njingolo, who attends sailing classes at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, will travel to the Spanish island of Mallorca where they will meet experts in yacht construction, design, and technology.
The trip is organised by Marine Inspirations, a charitable mentoring programme based in Palma, the capital of Mallorca.
Following their final preliminary examination on Thursday September 21, the four young men will head straight to the airport. They are scheduled to return on Monday October 2.
While in Palma, they will meet industry professionals, hone their sailing skills on the Mediterranean and apply their knowledge in a new, unfamiliar environment.
“I believe in ‘paying it forward. It is crucial to the continued success of the industry,“ said Marine Inspirations co-founder Phil Wade.
Lawhill Maritime Centre’s programme administrator Faye Kula said the trip was a chance for the pupils to put what they had learnt to the test while being mentored by professionals such as Mr Wade.
“The value of this cannot be understated and holds incredible significance in the students’ lives,” she said.
Simamkele Ntingiso,18, the head boy at Simon’s Town High School, said he was interested in marine engineering and his exposure to the maritime industry had increased a lot since attending Lawhill.
“Engineering has been a passion of mine since I was young. I remember a project I did at Lawhill that would stop a ship without an anchor – so I’m looking forward to meeting engineers.“
Nhlakanipho Lebengu, 18, is interested in marine conservation efforts and said he hoped to make connections on the trip that would lead to mentorship or job opportunities.
Liqhawe Mdoda, 18, said: “I would love to be part of racing and Spain is one of the places where yachting and racing is often hosted.
“I certainly never thought that one day I would be selected to go Spain – it is one of the most special moments a person can ask for. Where I come from, not many people get such opportunities.”
