Young Ambassadors

This month, young people from Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT) took centre stage at two prestigious events, demonstrating the powerful impact of providing young people with trust, opportunity, and a voice.

From the iconic steps of St Paul’s Cathedral in London to the historic nave of Winchester Cathedral, TSYT beneficiaries stood alongside national leaders, veterans, and civic dignitaries to represent the trust and the extraordinary potential of today’s youth.

Carrying the Flag at St Paul’s Cathedral

On Wednesday, 14 October, TSYT was honoured to participate in the Annual National Service for Seafarers at St Paul’s Cathedral. Representing the trust was Kai, a young person from Havering attending through partner organisation Youth Unity CIC and the Harold Hill MyEnds program (supported by Havering Community Safety Partnership and Koru-Ed).

Kai was given the honour of carrying the STA flag – representing the Sail Training Association, the original name under which TSYT was founded in 1956. Performing his duties with incredible poise, maturity, and respect, Kai left a lasting impression on attendees, taking time to speak with veterans following the service.

“This one is gold dust… Please foster him, we need people like him.”

– Veteran, National Service for Seafarers, St Paul’s Cathedral

“Kai represented young people who are so often misunderstood. When young people are given real opportunities and trust, they rise to them.”

– Youth Unity CIC

A Voice for the Future at Winchester Cathedral

Just days earlier, TSYT young person and founding Youth Voice member Thea Logan took to the lectern at Winchester Cathedral for the High Sheriff’s Law Sunday Service.

In front of a 700-strong congregation — including senior judges, barristers, mayors, and the High Sheriff of Hampshire, William Maltby — Thea proudly represented TSYT by reading the intercessory prayer ‘for the future’.

“Thea was such a star. The longest nave in Europe was completely full, so it was intimidating to say the least, yet it didn’t seem to bother her in the slightest. I am so impressed and very grateful. I bet she is the first to volunteer to help when the wind gets up!”

– William Maltby, High Sheriff of Hampshire

Thea’s journey with TSYT began as a young sailor on a voyage, leading her to become a volunteer Watch Leader and a founding member of TSYT’s newly launched Youth Voice steering group. Alongside four other youth charities, Thea represented the vital role youth development plays across our communities.

During the service, Mr Maltby spoke movingly about his own encounters with young people at the conclusion of TSYT voyages, reaffirming his growing advocacy for the trust’s mission.

Bridging Tradition and the Future

Reflecting on both events, the team at TSYT expressed immense pride in how Kai and Thea represented the charity across these high-profile regional and national moments.

These occasions served as a reminder of how maritime tradition and civic ceremony naturally connect with the future. Standing inside centuries-old cathedrals, Kai and Thea showed that the bridge between rich heritage and a brighter future is built on opportunity.

Whether bearing the flag in London or delivering a message of hope in Winchester, both Kai and Thea showcased the values of TSYT – building confidence, discovering potential, and empowering the next generation to make their mark on the world.