Cape Town - A group of Mitchells Plain children were exposed to the joy that sailing and the sea can offer, when they took part in a sailing therapy day at the V&A Waterfront.
The event was part of the 9 Miles Project, which works with youth from impoverished coastal communities, and was hosted by facilitator Greg Bertish – a well-known charity campaigner who runs the Little Optimist Trust, which focuses on inspiring vulnerable children.
The children, most of whom had never sailed before, were taught the basic principles of sailing and boating, such as wind direction and knot tying. They spent time on the water with instructors and, by the end of the day, they were given the opportunity to skipper their own sailing boats.
“To see these nervous and scared children transform into happy, confident, positive and skilled little sailors and ocean ambassadors, was truly amazing. We know they will take this back to their families and communities, and will spread the messages of optimism, ocean health and water safety,” Bertish said.
Water safety was a key element of the day’s programme, and included instruction about knowing where to swim, ocean currents, and how to remain calm in an emergency. Ocean health, plastic pollution and sustainability were also covered, and the day included a tour of the Two Oceans Aquarium.
“The children started out really nervous, but ended up not wanting to leave or get out the boats. It was really inspiring and lots of fun,” said 9 Miles Project coach Pearle Jenneker.
The sailing therapy day was the first in a series of similar events, to be held between May and July, as part of a partnership between the Little Optimist Trust and the V&A Waterfront. The Trust is looking for sponsors to assist in making this a permanent programme, with the aim of inspiring more than 400 at-risk children annually.