Our team

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m a Scottish Kiwi, having grown up in Glasgow then spent 20 years in the Royal Marines and Royal Air Force. My son (19) and my daughter (17) are essentially Kiwis as we spent 12 years living there when I left the military in 2005. I’ve worked in the commercial and charity sectors in Australasia and the UK.

I love the outdoors and spend my time trying to stay upright on my paddleboard and fat biking on the beach on the Sussex coast.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I’m the Chief Executive Officer, which means I have day-to-day responsibility for delivering the right experience for our young people, to enable them to reach their full life potential through our sailing voyages. I’m also responsible for engaging our donors, partners and supporters, to ensure that we have the right support to deliver our mission.

My role is varied and exciting. One day I’ll be on one of our vessels listening to the crew and young people. Then the next I’ll be in London engaging donors to showcase our work and the impact of their donations.

We’re all part of one crew here at Tall Ships Youth Trust and we all contribute to keep the ship moving forward to — change lives at sea for young people.

What has been your most memorable moment?

Day one, I was on our vessels, meeting our crew and young people about to head out on their first voyage. The excitement and nervous energy were palpable. It’s such a unique environment to challenge and develop teamwork, communications, resilience and self-confidence.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

We rely 100% on donations and support from individuals and organisations, so we work very hard to engage and showcase the impact of every level of support.

Please describe your job in three words

Exciting. Varied. Fulfilling.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

I’ve always considered myself a parenting guru, but my son and daughter would tell you otherwise!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

Hailing from the seafaring city of Bristol, on completing my education I joined the RAF for an aircraft engineering career. After 23 enjoyable years I started a second career outside of HM Forces in training and development and travelled to many parts of the world with my work; still over the sea but not on it!

I then had a few years working with young people in a forest school environment and coupled with many years with the scouting and guiding organisations found that I was looking for further youth related excitement. I discovered TSYT which had a very impressive Tall Ship (the Stavros). In 2014 I was accepted as a youth mentor but before joining Stavros discovered the Challengers – those very same vessels that had sailed twice around the world ‘the wrong way’ in the BT Global Challenge in the 2000’s.’ I was hooked! Challengers for me!! After a couple of voyages I was offered the position of Watch Leader. Over many voyages I gained more experience and confidence and I’ve now been a volunteer mate since 2019 – after a very eventful assessment voyage which I can tell you about if you sail with me. Oh, and I didn’t know it was to be an assessment voyage!

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

As mate, my role is to keep everyone safe and happy, in that order.  Working with the skipper – trying to second guess their next requirement (a sail change or a cup of tea); the watch leaders (their workload and skills development for the less experienced) who work most closely with the young people on board and with the crew themselves whose safety on deck is one of my top priorities. A challenging but really rewarding role and I can get involved in everything!

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships youth Trust?

So many, but a recent one was coming back from the Channel Islands at night in August when we encountered a Force 8 gale which promptly shredded a foresail and wrapped it around the rigging giving us a spontaneous problem-solving exercise. In the skipper’s words, “everyone just got on and did what was needed”

What is the one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Such a powerful development tool – which can be so much fun and you’ll have happy memories of for life

Please describe your job in three words

Rewarding, Enriching, Awesome

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

My morning wake up song but you’ll have to sail with me to hear it…​

Sailing for the first time with TSYT at age 14 was a life changing experience for me. The seven-day Challenger yacht voyage provided me with a brand-new confidence in myself, that I had never experienced before.

For the first time, I was pushed to my personal limit and discovered I could achieve much more than I ever imagined. I was never a sporty child, but by sailing with TSYT, I found a whole new activity, which stimulated me mentally, and made me want to challenge myself physically.

I began volunteering with TSYT at the age of 16 and was hooked, I would spend 13+ weeks a year volunteering. I received a high level of training and support from the staff at TSYT and always felt welcomed in Portsmouth, whenever I arrived for a voyage.

I travelled abroad on my own for the first time with TSYT, discovered ports all over the UK and Europe and completed my first Trans-Atlantic crossing at the age of 18.

When I was 17, TSYT helped me to map out a career plan in sailing, the organisation sponsored me to apply for financial funding from Trinity House and with this, I was able to complete all of my sailing qualifications including the RYA Ocean Yachtmaster!

My first job in sailing was in a refit period with TSYT and it kickstarted my passion for yacht building and engineering. I knew the day I went on my first TSYT voyage that one day I wanted to be a Skipper and that TSYT were instrumental in helping that dream come true.

Today, I have the privilege of working at Outward Bound Hong Kong, as Head of Sailing, managing sailing, refits, expeditions and working with disadvantaged young people from all over Hong Kong. Everytime I get onboard to start a voyage I do it with the confidence I gained when I first sailed with the TSYT, proud to share my journey and inspire other young people and women in sailing. ​​

I grew up around different types of boats and have been sailing ever since I was 10! I got involved with Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT) when I was a teenager and after my first voyage, I was asked to return as a volunteer Watch Leader.

I then took a year out before I went to university and in that year, I took part in the Clipper Round the World Race. Having experienced this, I knew that a career in sailing was for me.

I continued to volunteer with Tall Ships Youth Trust and in 2019, I was awarded bursary funding from the Association of Sail Training Organisations (ASTO) and Trinity House, which enabled me to gain RYA Qualifications and work my way through the ranks to become a freelance Mate, and now a Skipper!

My work is now split between being a Mate and a Skipper on TSYT’s four Challenger yachts and I love it so much! Once you’ve got the sailing bug, you really can’t get rid of it. Each voyage I take part in is unique, from the people onboard to the places we go and every single one is a different adventure to look forward to!

I’m very grateful to TSYT for supporting me over the years and allowing me to turn my passion for sailing into a career at sea!

As a child I sailed small dinghies and was an active member of the Sea Cadets. I’d heard of the Royal Navy, but not the Merchant Navy. However, this all changed when my employer sponsored my first voyage from Oban to Hartlepool onboard the Sir Winston Churchill in 1995. From the first moment of stepping onboard, I was hooked! I was invited back to sail as a Watch Leader and as I did more trips, I met more people with Merchant Navy backgrounds and started to investigate a career at sea.

I commenced my deck officer cadetship in 2000, sponsored by Maritime London and was fortunate enough to get a placement with the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) during this cadetship. This was a real turning point for my career and following qualification as an officer of the watch, I secured a role with BAS as a Third Officer. I had an amazing 10 years working for BAS, conducting science operations and resupplying Antarctic research bases. BAS also funded me through my Chief Officer and Master Mariners certification.

Having seen and experienced the life of the staff working on the bases, I was keen to try and find an opportunity to live and work ashore in the Antarctic for a few years. My maritime skills and qualifications were the perfect fit for the role of Government Officer on the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia. The role included the duties of Harbour Master, Fisheries Officer, customs, postmaster, and everything else involved in helping run a small, remote island.

After three years I returned to sea, having secured the role of Captain onboard the royal research ship, Discovery. At the time, the vessel was only 18 months old, and was the most technologically advanced research ship in the UK. In my four years of command, I took the ship as far north as Greenland and as far south as South Georgia. We carried out a full spectrum of science and I had the pleasure of sailing with some fascinating people from a range of scientific backgrounds.

Then, 20 years after starting my seagoing career, I decided to move away from deep sea and focus on gaining more of a work-life balance. After two years working for Red Funnel and Wight Link on their ferries, the opportunity to work as Harbour Master in the Falklands arose. I know the Falklands well from my time with BAS, so the job was the perfect fit.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’ve always lived in Portsmouth and have been at Tall Ships Youth Trust since 2009. I’ve been married for more than 30 years and have two grown-up sons and two lovely granddaughters.

I’m very family orientated and I’m fanatical about playing golf and watching football. I’m also in the Freemasons with Chas (but don’t tell anyone!).

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships

My role is the Finance Director and I report to the CEO.

It’s a very busy department covering finance, IT and HR with constant deadlines to meet.

I am responsible for financial accounting and annual reports, regulatory compliance and reporting, management/financial information, including budgeting and forecasting, cash and cashflow management.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships?

There have been so many! But probably going out on a day sail with the staff and getting to know them better.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships?

All the staff are totally dedicated to providing the best experience possible for young people. That’s really true.

Please describe your job in three words

Challenging. Frenetic. Rewarding.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Maybe could have been a footballer but they said I wasn’t tall enough though! Can you believe that?

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I love life on, in and under the water, and I’m always out and about walking, camping and travelling!

I’ve worked in schools for 17 years, primarily as a Geography teacher but also outdoor learning, house staff and most recently senior leadership, responsible for curriculum and progress.

I’m very family focused, not forgetting our four-legged family member Charlie, who you’re likely to see from time to time in the Portsmouth Hub!

I like to take on a daft challenge every so often, which now means I jump in the sea (by choice) throughout the year and complete running challenges like hellrunner and half-marathons for fun (apparently).

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

In this new position as Director of Youth Development and Outdoor Learning and TSYT, my role is to develop opportunities for our young people and members to build their skills and enhance their experience.

I’ll be looking to really drive that social change and personal development for our young people, and to create life-changing opportunities in a sailing environment.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I first sailed with TSYT when Sir Winston Churchill (Schooner vessel, previously owned by TSYT) still graced our horizons and my uncle introduced me to the world of sailing! He sailed with me as our Watch Officer, an amazing memory we shared!

I’ve had so many amazing memories of sailing onboard different vessels over the years, from Sir Winston Churchill to Stavros S Niarchos and now the Challengers… I’m not sure I can pick just one!

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Sailing is the tool, youth development is the goal!

Please describe your job in three words

Exciting, open, dream

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Best square sail stow on my own – Quoting Barry Martin!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

Outside of work I enjoy raising a family, sailing and a variety of crafts.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

My role is to manage the vessels and their operation.

Areas of responsibility include: sea staff, maintenance, certification, budgets and operational planning.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Every day!

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

The amazing opportunity we are able to offer to young people to expand their horizons while onboard one of our vessels.

Please describe your job in three words

Varied

Challenging

Rewarding

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Detailed spreadsheets using many colours and formulas.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I joined TSYT in 2012 as a fundraiser, having previously worked in marketing.

I have two sons and a springer spaniel and when not at work, I love spending time with my family. We particularly like going to Devon and Cornwall as much as we can.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I am the Fundraising Manager at TSYT. I have a focus on Trusts and Foundations but oversee all areas of fundraising at the Trust.

The role is very full-on! However, it is all worthwhile when you see the impact our voyages have on the young people we support.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

There have been a few… hearing the success stories of young people keeps me motivated though.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Everyone at Tall Ships Youth Trust – the team at the hub, the TSYT sailing crew, our wonderful volunteers and supporters – is striving to achieve the same goal – to provide young people with genuinely life-changing opportunities at sea.

Please describe your job in three words

Challenging. Engrossing. Rewarding.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Are you saying you don’t know who I am?!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I have been working for Tall Ships Youth Trust since 2007. I first joined as Reservations Clerk, moving onto the role of Fleet Administration Officer in 2018, and now I am the Voyage Resourcing and Reservations Manager.

Before TSYT, I worked at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and I have a HND in Travel and Tourism Management.

I live in Portsmouth with my husband and two children. When I am not working, I spend time with my family and do my ‘mum’ jobs.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

My current role involves making sure that we have sufficient, suitable and appropriately trained crew on our voyages with the support of our Fleet Readiness and Maintenance Manager.

I also manage the Reservations Team, and am responsible for the budget management of crew costs.

Lastly, I work closely with the Head of Operations to ensure that our voyages operate to the required standards.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

My funniest moment was seeing a colleague talk with a doughnut half in her mouth. In all seriousness the best moment was speaking to Santo’s mum once he won the David Godwin award, to hear how proud she was and how much Tall Ships Youth Trust has changed his life brings a tear to your eye.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

These voyages really do improve young people’s lives and their perception of their life to come.

Please describe your role in three words

Varied

Enjoyable

Eventful

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

I am famous; I had my photo in the Daily Mail wearing a West Brom Shirt!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I was born in Ipswich and lived in Reading in my younger years, before moving abroad to live in Brussels and Paris.

I then moved back to Cardiff to complete a degree in Product Design and to learn how to fend for myself. Once completing my degree, I yearned to go travelling and see the world, though I had always sailed as a boy on the east coast it was from Gosport my adventure began.

I joined a fleet of large yachts as a nipper (2^nd mate), from there my first voyage was down to the Canaries and across the Atlantic to the Caribbean. Alongside my adventure, I worked through all the RYA qualifications to become a freelance skipper. Having spent years involved in many races and corporate events, I was ready for something different.

I’ve now been a Skipper with Tall ships Youth Trust since July 2011 and can happily say it’s been the most rewarding and fulfilling role I’ve done.

When I am not working I spend as much time as I can with my family, normally on a boat! I also like to keep fit or ride my motorbike.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

As a Skipper I’m brought in to offer an amazing experience onboard our fleet, be it along the coast or across the Atlantic. My role is to inspire and encourage everyone to work together as a crew to create something that is unforgettable.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

There have been so many moments that it’s hard to pick one. With so many young people coming through and literally changing their lives as the voyage goes on, from conquering fears of heights, fears of water, seeing things for the first time like the sea, beach and dolphins or leaning domestic life skills.

One of those moments was when I sailed with a group of young offenders of which one had been arrested the day before the voyage, by the end of day one, I saw this young person open his eyes to the world to what he could achieve and by the end of the week it was my privilege to offer him an award for his outstanding work and effort during the voyage. Better than this, was the feedback we received from the young person and his family and how he had chosen to go back to school to improve his life and that of his mum’s.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Tall ships Youth Trust is a big family of which everyone is warmly welcomed into and supported through their individual journey. From voyage crew and volunteers to Mates, Skippers and shoreside support, up to the CEO — all clearly have a passion and drive to make a difference to as many young people as possible.

Please describe your job in three words

Fulfilling

Journey

Investment

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

I am famous, the amazing acrobatic MONKEY!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I was born in Romania, and moved to the UK in 2017. Since I was a kid I wanted to work in the tourism industry so, I did my BSc in Economy of Domestic and International Tourism and my MA in Tourism and Business Administration.

My first job was during my work experience in US when I worked as an Assistant Manager for a travel agent for a small Romanian tour-operator followed by three crazy years as a B2B Account Manager for BlueAir and finally here.

In my free time I love to cook and travel around and discover new places (my favourites so far are the New Forest and The Three Cups in Stockbridge).

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I have recently stepped into the new adventurous role of Growth and Retention Executive, after four years of enjoyment in the Reservations Team.

My aim is to increase our reach and engage with different groups around the country to make sure that as many young people as possible can benefit from our life-changing voyages.

I have the privilege of meeting and interacting with exciting people everyday and I feel lucky to be part of such a great community.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Every ‘Thank you’ letter we receive is memorable.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

That the voyages are not just about relaxing moments and a little bit of work (as I thought) but are also about developing young people and adults – communication, friendship, leadership and teamwork skills, and helping them regain their self-confidence and self-esteem.

They are actually changing people’s lives.

Please describe your job in three words

Exciting

Motivational

Challenging

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

For my Crêpe 🙂 ​

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m an escaped primary school teacher and started sailing in my early thirties. Having realised that I had been at school for 30 years (since I was four), I took a belated gap year and ran away to sea, ending up working as a cook and hostess on a Swan 51 charter yacht in the Caribbean. When I came back I heard that TSYT had bought four Challenge 72 yachts and were looking for volunteer cooks. I did my first voyage in February 2008 and was hooked. I passed my TSYT Skipper assessment after the Fastnet Race in 2011 (cook to Skipper in three and a half years!) and, in 2014, I gave up teaching to become a freelance skipper with TSYT. In March 2023 I was taken on in a dual onshore/offshore role as Skipper and Youth Development and Outdoor Learning Lead (Offshore) to develop TSYT’s three-voyage programme on the water. I don’t have very much spare time, but yoga, walking, reading and sleeping feature quite highly when I do. I still love cooking, but sadly I don’t get to do it so much on boats anymore.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

The role of a Youth Development Skipper is a very diverse one. You might find me making hot chocolate for 12 year olds and tucking them into their sleeping bags on the foredeck to look at the stars, or teaching a race crew how to get maximum speed out of their sail trim. No two trips are alike, no two groups are alike and it’s never, ever boring. At the Portsmouth Hub, I’m to be found working on voyage plans, youth development activities, staff training, producing resources and generally doing my best to make what we do on the water with young people as fantastic (dare I say empowering?!) as it can be.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

All voyages have memorable moments – judging a bake off between three 13 year old boys from a Pupil Referral Unit and trying to eat cake with no hands, crossing the ARC  finish line in Rodney Bay, St Lucia, after skippering my first transatlantic, watching dolphins play in the phosphorescence in the bow wave in the final stages of the Fastnet Race when everybody was knackered and a bit down, seeing someone who first sailed with us as a 14 year old trainee now succeeding in a very prestigious job in the sailing industry…shall I go on?

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

It’s a family. Once you voyage with us, you’re part of a community that works together, supports each other and laughs together.

Please describe your job in three words

Awesome

Inspirational

Exhilarating

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Being the benign dictator of the non-democratic Geary republic and getting the world properly organised! My Indonesian-style beef curry is pretty famous, too.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I fell in love with sailing, and the ocean in 2017, when I first stepped on board an ocean-going yacht.

While I loved teaching English in Switzerland, I realised that being on a boat is a much more effective for the kind of learning I am passionate about.

When volunteering at sea in the holidays became not enough, I made a professional move both into TSYT and into the UK early 2023 – a dream come true!

I love having deep meaningful conversations with people and making life easier for those around me, be that by providing food, a simplified process, smoother communication or a hug.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I work in the Youth Development and Outdoor Learning (YDOL) Team, both in the Portsmouth Hub and on the water.

In the Hub, I coordinate with group leaders to find a voyage appropriate to their intended outcomes. In the YDOL team, we structure and guide TSYT’s youth development and outdoor learning programme, including regularly connecting with sailing staff.

As a Mate (and now Skipper) on board, I get to interact directly with everybody, the young people, their group leaders, sailing staff, and I’m privileged to be in a position where I’m directly involved in shaping the experience that they have on board. 

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Please don’t make me choose!

Night navigation in the Forth of Clyde, with the realisation that while others would say they’re “cold, wet and miserable”, I would say I’m “cold, wet and ridiculously happy”.

Every time a young person says at the end of the voyage something along the lines of “I didn’t think I could do it, but I did.

“From now on, I will try even the hard things, as I might be able to do them!”

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

It has the potential to change your life, if you engage fully with it!

Please describe your job in three words

Varied

Surprising

Gratifying

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Listening and understanding.​

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I started working at Tall Ships Youth Trust in April 2023, after a short career break to spend more time with my young children. Before that, I worked in various fundraising and event roles for more than 10 years, and I have a degree in Fashion Journalism.

When I’m not at work I love spending time with my family and our crazy cocker spaniel pup Nala. I love travelling and if I ever have the time, I like to do a spot of yoga.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I’m the Individual Giving and Membership Lead at TSYT, my role is to help inspire people to support our important cause, sharing stories and updates with donors, running appeals and supporting donors on their journey. Whether they are planning on running a marathon, organising their own fundraising event, or becoming a TSYT member – I help them every step of the way.

What has been your most memorable moment?

I’m very new, so I haven’t had the chance to meet our young people yet – but so far, my most memorable moment is having a tour of one of our Challengers, it really helped bring to life the incredible experience the young people have out at sea and how life changing it must be for them.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Everyone who works here is truly passionate about what they do and the cause, there is a lovely inclusive culture, and the voyages really do change the lives of young people in such a positive way.

Please describe your job in three words

Busy, challenging, fun!

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

In another life a West End star!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’ve been sailing since I can remember and have been involved in the sail training sector for 16 years. If I’m not on the water or in the water, I will be found on a beach or up a hill. I love going hiking and camping and finding new remote beaches for sunrise breakfasts. When indoors, I like to do yoga, crochet which is mostly hats, and I’m getting better at sewing – last year I made a pair of trousers!

I have worked in the charity sector for seven years, predominately in fundraising and charity development. Before that I worked as an engineering geologist, so if you’re out a walk or on a boat with me, be prepared to learn about the landscape around you!

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

My role as Philanthropy and Fundraising/Corporate Lead involves working with individuals and companies who are significantly supporting TSYT. I enjoy the variety of this role and building relationships with people who believe in our work.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I’ve not been in the team very long but I’ve most enjoyed reading the feedback from young people and learning about the impacts their voyage has had on them. I also enjoyed meeting two TSYT young ambassadors during my first week.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

It’s not just about the sailing, it’s about learning to cook, or meeting new people, or seeing something new for the first time, like a sea bird or quirky cove only reached by the sea. Sailing is the way to expand your horizon, figuratively and literally.

Please describe your job in three words

Rewarding, inspiring, diverse.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

My ability to declutter and organise a room or house. Moving house, give me tea and cake and it’ll be done in a day!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I grew up in the South Devon countryside and moved to Portsmouth 15 years ago to study Biochemistry and Genetics at the university and then never left! I have had a variety of jobs over the years including 10 years working for HM Prison Service in the Finance Department.

I have two young children and really enjoy being out in the fresh air with them. I also enjoy reading, painting and occasionally running.  I’ve recently started learning Tai Chi.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

My role is Trusts and Grants Fundraiser and this is actually the second time I have worked for Tall Ships Youth Trust. I had a similar role 10 years ago, but left to have my children. It’s very nice to be back.

I search for and apply to hundreds of trusts, foundations and other organisations to raise bursary funding for young people and provide equipment for the vessels.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Climbing aloft onboard the Stavros S Niarchos and meeting some of the young people my fundraising helps.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

It’s NOT a holiday!!!!

Please describe your job in three words

Engaging. Busy. Worthwhile.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

I can’t imagine anything worse than being famous!!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I come for an administration and events background. I’ve had lots of different and exciting roles and even spent six months skiing in the Alps with one job!

I’m always on the go; you will often find me walking, running, cycling or travelling and I am even partial to a bit of arts and crafts. I am very self-motivated and I’m always working on a different project – right now I’m (slowly) teaching myself piano! My creative side is influenced by my grandparents who got me in to music and theatre, which I then went on to do a degree in. I’m often trying new things in my spare time or travelling the lengths of the UK to see friends and family.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I work in our finance team and support the work involved in paying suppliers, recording voyage receipts, recording donations and reconciliations. I also look after our HR polices and procedures.

Please describe your job in three words

Rewarding, creative and fun!

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Singing

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m a mum to two young children and have three step children, so I’m always on the go these days! My work background is in administration and customer service, working in such places as IBM, Lockheed Martin and Queen Alexandra Hospital. This has given me the opportunity to use these skills in my role at Tall Ships Youth Trust.

In my spare time I like to spend it with my family, go to the cinema, and socialise with my friends. For me it’s about getting the work/life balance right.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I work as part of the Business Support Team, primarily in Finance. This involves processing financial transactions of the Trust, account reconciliations, statistical analysis and ad-hoc reporting.

What has been your most memorable moment?

Being taken on as a part-time permanent member of the Business Support Team as I was only supposed to be temporary maternity cover back in 2021! I must have made a good impression and be doing something right!!

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

The voyages are not just about learning to sail. They are about learning new skills and helping the young people and adults develop as a person, whether that be confidence building, communication or growing their knowledge of the boats and working as part of a team. There is hard work involved, but there can be fun too! Life skills are learnt which will help everyone who goes on a voyage for the rest of their lives.

Please describe your job in three words

Challenging

Rewarding

Motivating

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Dancing – I started dancing from the age of three and I was lucky enough to dance for Princess Diana when I was seven years old, as well as on TV shows abroad and performing at the London Palladium and Sadler’s Wells Theatre.

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

Being fortunate enough to have seen first-hand how the effect of time on the water, working closely with other people, develops and brings out the best in people, the fit for me with Tall Ships Youth Trust was obvious. When I was asked to help expand the reach of the Trust, the thought of what I might be able to do for kids far less fortunate than me, it rang a clear bell. It is a natural fit in so many ways and I was more than happy to accept the challenge. Teach the kids basic life skills on how to work with each other and the opportunities will follow.

BACKGROUND

I was lucky enough to have grown up with a sailing boat somewhere nearby and to have had easy access to the water. Dinghy sailing when I was young followed by keelboats from my teenage years onwards. Life aboard a yacht working closely with other people is second nature to me. I spent a very short time in the Merchant Navy before immersing myself into the building trade in manufacturing and selling. I have for the last 35 years run a plumbers merchants in the southeast of England. My love of sailing has taken me to many different venues and allowed me to meet many different people from all walks of life and my former role as the Commodore of the Royal Ocean Racing Club has extensively widened my network of passionate sailors, both professional and Corinthian.

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

When I met my wife 30 years ago three things brought us together: a passion for conservation, the sea and a desire to ‘give something back’ to society. As keen divers we took an early interest in marine conservation programmes working alongside marine biologists and fisheries in South East Asia and the Caribbean.  It was a natural progression to setting up our own foundation, working with artisans from small fishing communities, helping them learn new skills using waste material such as seashell to access an alternative, sustainable source of income.

Twenty years on this foundation is well established and running well with a dedicated management team in place. The journey has been rewarding as we feel we make a direct, long-lasting contribution to people’s lives. With a daughter in her early teens, I was keen to find a way to contribute also to our/her community in the UK, helping young adults like her get ready to embrace the world with energy, ambition, confidence, self-respect, respect for others – and with the unshakable belief that if you work hard and have sound values life will be a wonderful experience.

My love of the sea, my passion for sailing, stewardship and the charity’s ethos naturally steered me towards Tall Ships Youth Trust.

BACKGROUND

I was born into a French family with deep roots around the Mediterranean and a long military tradition. I grew up spending as much time as possible by, in or on the sea, including sailing offshore from a young age. After finishing business school, I decided to follow the family tradition, graduated as an officer and spent time serving in the French military. To this day, I cherish the life lessons learnt and true camaraderie built during those years in the services.

I joined the civilian world through a career in professional services, originally in Paris then in London, where I moved permanently in 1991. From early on, I specialised helping global financial institutions, in particular investment banks, manage their financial and operational risks. This kicked off an international career across the main financial centres in Europe, the US and Asia. As a partner with EY (formerly known as Ernst & Young) my role today primarily focuses on managing our global relationship with some of the firm’s largest clients.

I’m married with one daughter. Our family enjoys London and its access to a buzzing cultural scene. We also enjoy spending time outdoors sailing, diving, skiing or rock-climbing. We competed together in the 2021 Rolex Fastnet Race sailing onboard Tall Ships Youth Trust’s 72ft, Challenger 2, which was a great experience as a family.

Time spent outdoors over the years naturally drove me to become a member of the Royal Ocean Racing Club, the SMTC (Cresta Run), a qualified RYA Yachtmaster, a scuba-diving instructor and a skiing instructor.

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

I have sailed with Tall Ships Youth Trust over the last five years, with young people from the school I lead in Sutton, London. I was approached to bring a different insight to the Trust’s management board having worked with young people who are excluded and marginalised over the last 35 years. I represent those who have been excluded from school and with special educational needs, especially those with social, emotional, and mental health needs, providing a link to the real work of the Trust with the sailing teams and crew. Our school actively brings children to be transformed by Tall Ships Youth Trust and the people and boats that change their lives.

BACKGROUND

I am Executive Principal of Alternative Learning Trust, set up in 2019, as a new multi-academy trust for Pupil Referral Units (PRUs), Alternative Provision (AP), and specialist settings. Previously, I was headteacher at The Limes College PRU in Sutton since 2006. The college was the first to be set up under the Trust. I graduated as a teacher from the University of Bangor with a specialism in outdoor education, PE and special educational needs (SEN).

I have a post-graduate Diploma in SEN/Behaviour, a national professional qualification for headship and I’m currently studying for an MBA. I led The Limes College in developing quality teaching and raising attainment, which involved improving expectations and developing a range of attainment and qualifications with clear pathways to reintegrate pupils into mainstream school.

I represent secondary schools, special schools and PRUs on Sutton’s Funding Forum, LSCP, CAMHS Partnership Board and the Early Help Board.  I’m Vice Chair of the Secondary Heads’ Group and currently, represent PRUs and AP on a national stakeholder group with the Department for Education.

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

I grew up by the sea, started sailing some 40 years ago, and have loved being out on the water ever since. A sailing boat is a unique environment, often challenging, always changing, and demanding care and great teamwork from its crew. Sail training provides young people with so much more than the skills required to sail. Together, they learn about themselves, what they’re capable of and how to communicate better with one another.

I’ve been a trustee with Tall Ships Youth Trust since 2018. I enjoy being part of a charity that helps young people to experience life at sea and using my expertise to help ensure our values of inclusion, adventure and excellence run through everything we do. I recently supported the staff team in delivering a major CRM project upgrade to improve how the charity manages its information.

BACKGROUND

I’ve spent more than 20 years defining business operations, information systems and technology strategies in public sector, commercial and third-sector organisations, working at a senior level for the likes of Toshiba, Alliance Boots and Grant Thornton, and also as an independent consultant.

My experience spans successful delivery of major projects, including business change, IT infrastructure, software development and implementation, and managing ongoing IT Services. Over half my work in recent years has been supporting charities with projects to improve their Finance and CRM systems and make the best use of IT, especially relevant in a post-Covid world.

I’m also a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Instructor and teach sailing in the UK and abroad.

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

When I retired from investment banking, I became a governor at a special needs school close to where I live in West Sussex. The school had sent young people on numerous Tall Ships Youth Trust trips and the feedback was always very positive. When I stepped down as a governor, I was interested in continuing to do charitable work, which benefitted disadvantaged young people, and was introduced to Tall Ships Youth Trust by a former trustee. I have been a keen sailor all my life and recall, as a youngster, seeing the schooners, Sir Winston Churchill and Malcolm Miller in the Solent. I soon realised that these wonderful boats were once owned by the Trust. I have seen first-hand how Tall Ships Youth Trust changes lives and was delighted to become a Trustee.

BACKGROUND

I have sailed since I was a child growing up in Chichester, where I sailed dinghies and windsurfed before moving on to larger boats. I graduated from Imperial College, London, in Chemical Engineering and joined Price Waterhouse in London where I trained as a Chartered Accountant. After qualifying, I moved into investment banking and spent the next 25 years with Credit Suisse, JP Morgan and Renaissance. My banking career was divided roughly equally between London and Asia. Sailing remained a big part of mine and my family’s lives, whether racing or cruising, both in the UK and overseas. I have moved back to the Chichester area, and I’m married with two grown up children who both sail.

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

Having first sailed with Tall Ships at age 14, and regularly since as an onboard volunteer, I have a long standing loyalty to this charity. I have seen first hand the tremendous impact that the work of Tall Ships and its supporters has on young lives. Coming from a sailing-supportive family has made it relatively easy for me to enjoy the sport and all its benefits throughout the years, however I am well aware that there are other young people, not so different to me in some respects, that are not so blessed. I want to dedicate my time and efforts to ensure that more of my peers and those to come can access the opportunities that I have.

BACKGROUND

I have sailed since childhood, instructed dinghies since school, taught on yachts since adolescence and been a live-aboard during a gap year. Now in my twenties I collect skippering certificates and race in a competitive fleet. Academically I have a degree in Biomedical Sciences from King’s College London and a keen interest in genetics and cancer research. I have worked for several years in Event Management and Corporate Team Building, directing a small team to run large focused events. These analytical and management skills have led me to my current graduate job as a Business Improvement Coordinator for Greencore UK. I work to identify, analyse and fix areas of improvement for the world’s leading manufacturer of pre-packaged sandwiches.​

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

In my own youth I benefitted immensely from group collaboration learning activities. In particular, in the form of music through which we developed our playing together, gained confidence through performing, learned to welcome newcomers from all backgrounds and made lifelong friends.

The opportunity to join Tall Ships Youth Trust as a trustee, came at a time when I was looking to ‘rebalance’ the mix of family time, professional life, increased charitable activity and music. I could immediately see the importance and social value of the charity’s work with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and the resonance with my own collaborative experiences with young people. I strongly believe that successful collaborative skills-building goes a long way to building confidence in young people that can help them with direction, social skills and values in their adult lives.

BACKGROUND

I was born in North London although, my family originate from the west of Ireland. In my 20s, I joined the then Inland Revenue, which later became HMRC. I spent 20 years with the tax authority and gained first-hand experience in analysing financial statements, business financing and international tax. In 2009, I moved into professional services and have been a ‘Big Four’ partner since 2012.

I’m married with two teenage sons and we live in Buckinghamshire. My wife, Bettina, is from Jutland, Denmark and we spend a lot of our spare time enjoying the Baltic coast and life at a different pace. Both our sons are fluent Danish speakers.

My experience on the water is limited to motor boats and I have a Level 2 RYA Powerboat handling qualification. My pastimes, include rugby (supporting, not playing), developing my Danish language ability, recreational cycling and getting outdoors as much as possible. My favourite pastime, is Irish traditional music, which I’ve been playing since an early age and perform to support related community-interest causes.  ​

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

From an early age I have always had a keen interest in sailing and getting out on the water. Having sailed dinghies and bigger boats, I appreciate the many different dynamics that a sailing experience can offer.

The charity’s ethos of offering children from disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to go to sea for a few days, really resonates with me. It can be and has been, a life-changing experience for some people. The opportunity to become a trustee was not one to miss.

BACKGROUND

I have spent 30-plus years in investment banking and stock markets and left that world a few years ago to diversify and learn some other skills. I’m an investor, a non- executive director and a mentor. I also find time for personal hobbies and other interests, including learning Spanish.

I’m married with two grown up daughters and live in Sussex. My wife and I are keen sailors and also enjoy skiing, cycling and travelling. I have a RYA Yachtmaster qualification and I’m a member of RORC.

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

I believe that it is important to provide development opportunities to disadvantaged young people to enable them to become confident, resilient and realise their full potential. Tall Ships Youth Trust has a fantastic legacy of supporting young people through transformational residential voyages. I was particularly impressed with the STEM and the Sea voyages providing life skills to all-girl crews of Year 10+ girls. I am familiar with the benefits of the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme provided by Tall Ships Youth Trust, as my daughters have all completed this at school.

As a school governor, I can see that support is needed for our young people now more than ever given the challenging economic environment and anxiety caused by learning difficulties, pressures of home life, covid and other social factors. I have supported the development of young people and promoted diversity and inclusion through personal, corporate, and voluntary work.

I have grown up daughters who enjoy swimming and diving in the sea, and we have spent some great family holidays at Trinity House lighthouses! I am passionate about young people and providing them with opportunities that may not otherwise be available to all.

BACKGROUND

I have broad commercial and legal expertise, as well as experience of the charity sector. My career as a senior lawyer spans more than 25 years in the global banking and fund management sector, working for US, Japanese, French and UK institutions, as well as the multi-lateral development investment bank EBRD (European Bank for Reconstruction and Development).

I then moved to The Fairtrade Foundation where I provided legal advice on charities, programmes, commercial and development work. I am now an advisor at Nest Insight, a public-benefit research and innovation centre.

I am very excited to be joining Tall Ships Youth Trust in 2023 and participating in the next phase of its strategic development.

WHY TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST?

For my 18th birthday, my parents brought me a voyage on the Stavros S Niarchos (Stavy!) that kick started a TSYT journey that cumulated in my becoming a Challenger Skipper at the tender age of 21. Now, at the age of 35, working for Lloyd’s Register (LR) as a senior leader, I recognise the essential part that my years with TSYT have played not only in my personal development, but also within my career within the marine industry.

My journey and background I believe is aligned with TSYT’s mission of enabling young people to change their lives at sea, and contribute to the maritime sector and the blue economy. I feel that I embody this mission in my career and life story and can coach, mentor and guide our young people into pursuing their fullest potential in whatever industry they choose to progress in.

With a wide network and contacts in the maritime and yachting industry I also recognise that I can provide TSYT and its young people access to this network, enabling progression into the industry after completion of a TSYT voyage. The LR Foundation (the owning entity of LR) also provides support, technical expertise and funding to many charities including TSYT, and so I believe that I can also provide a useful link between TSYT and the Foundation.

Finally, my deep maritime technical background will enable me to support TSYT with decisions around future asset investments, long-term maintenance aspects and the strategic technical direction of the Challengers.

BACKGROUND

A graduate of Newcastle university, I hold a Naval Architecture degree and now manage the Materials, Equipment and Component certification business within LR. I began within the company as a Graduate Engineer, before progressing to be a Ship Surveyor and Operational Manager prior to starting this current role in 2021. However, in many ways this has been a second career that followed my work with TSYT.

Following my brig match-race voyages, I was asked back as a Volunteer Deck Hand and Watch Leader. Then following the purchase of the Challengers, I was fortunate to be heavily involved with their commissioning and delivery voyages. After many enjoyable voyages, supporting and developing our young people as Volunteer Mate, I subsequently became Skipper, completing several Fastnet campaigns on the Challengers, and taking hundreds of young people to sea on their own voyages of adventure.

I accredit my journey and success in the maritime industry to the experiences TSYT has given me. To this day, I still have my skippering experience on my professional CV as I know it demonstrates many great qualities employers would value. Team leadership, determination and the ability to deal with adversity are all skills learnt from my time as Skipper, and all in my early 20’s. I believe that such life experiences are vitally important to a person’s development and I would never have received any of these, had it not been for TSYT.

​

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m a professional sailor of 15 years’ experience. I’m particularly interested in training to make seafaring safe and accessible, I believe it can be a positive life changing experience. Most of my best days have been at sea and I like be involved in helping others experience this.

I have run a sea school, been a coast guard officer, a round the world yacht racer and a delivery skipper.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I skipper the voyages. I sail the Cat, the ketch but especially the challenger yachts.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Too many to mention, Dartmouth approach at dawn straight from Portsmouth was memorable. The wind was from the North West and we had a through the night powerful, flat, fun sail. The guys had been amazing and I knew we were going to have the best week ever.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Its for everyone, on a boat everyone can be amazing in some way.

Please describe your job in three words

Safety / Teacher / amazement deliverer (ok that’s four)

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

I would have a tv cooking show. The studio would be at 45 degrees tilt. Every recipe would involve running on deck to sort out a problem like what’s the 3 greatest biscuits ever.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I am a qualified RYA/MCA Ocean Yachtmaster with commercial endorsement.  I have been sailing for over 10 years on a range of sailing vessels from production cruising boats to Challenger yachts.  With over 22,000NM logged, I have sailed much of the UK, France, Portugal, Spain, Mediterranean and the Caribbean and sailed the Atlantic Ocean five times since 2012.

I was born in Gosport and after a couple of years in the Merchant Navy I joined the Fire and Rescue Service in Hampshire.  As a firefighter I moved around the country on promotion and finished my career 31 years later as Chief Fire Officer and Director of Community Safety in Gloucestershire.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

As Skipper with Tall Ships I look after and manage boats going to sea, this involves keeping everyone on board and the boat safe, looking and developing crews and make sure everyone learns life skills through sailing.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

My most memorable moment with the Trust was my first voyage sailing across the Atlantic and the excitement when getting to St Lucia and seeing what it meant to all of us.  That same excitement is still there whether it be a long voyage or a simple voyage in the Solent, reaching a destination by harnessing nature through sailing is an amazing experience.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

You can learn so much about yourself and life by sailing with Tall Ships Youth Trust

Please describe your job in three words

Safety, Development, Fun

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

If I was famous I would be famous for my pancakes!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m one of the Skippers at the Tall Ships Youth Trust and I have been here for 10 years. I started out as Mate (1^st paid Mate) and then progressed to Skipper. Before my sailing career started, I worked in the City of London for a Merchant Bank and did that for 21 years. I enjoy watching my local football team Gillingham, travel and spending time with friends.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I am responsible for running the voyages and making sure that the crew and boat are safe and they have a good time.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Over the 10 years I have had many memorable moments and because the trips are so varied, you never know when the next one will happen. If pushed, I would say my first trip as Skipper.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

It is a life-changing experience.

Please describe your job in three words

LIVING THE DREAM

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Helping make the world a better place

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m a full-time Sailing Instructor, having decided about six years ago that it was going to be more fun than working in an office.

So far, that’s worked out to be true! I love working for TSYT and when I’m not doing that, I teach the Royal Yachting Association’s syllabus as a Yachtmaster Instructor. I still think the old line is true “A bad day on the water is better than a great day anywhere else.”

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

As a Skipper with TSYT, I lead the onboard team that helps young people have great experiences. This means planning the trip and adjusting plans to suit each voyage crew, a little bit of admin, and a lot of teaching and mentoring. And making sure it’s all fun.

People think that a Skipper steers the boat all the time … on the best trips I barely touch the wheel, only taking control for the all-important parking!

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Memorable moments happen all the time. The best bits normally happen about two thirds of the way into a trip when everyone relaxes and maybe you find out that the person who started out nervous and quiet is suddenly ready to take charge of some exercises on deck… those moments are always great.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Boats are a great leveller. If you come to the sea overconfident, you’ll find out that you can only achieve with help from others. But, if you come to it uncertain of yourself, you’ll find you can do far more than you thought.

Please describe your job in three words

Challenging

Safe

Enjoyable

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

My fabled ability to resist biscuits, however tempting. It’s quite safe to offer to share your triple chocolate cookies with me, I can definitely resist those, oh yes :).

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m 29 and from the Isle of Wight. I’m a freelance cruising instructor, teaching young people from the age of 12 on leisure trips, right up to teaching adults on racing yachts around the world.

My first job was as a climbing instructor at the age of 14. I then spent 10 years working for the NHS, and still do sometimes, alongside completing a degree in medical science

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I started working freelance for the Trust in 2018 as a Mate and have since progressed to Skipper, after being signed off in 2023.

I throrougly enjoy the challenge of the role, as well as contributing to maintenance and engineering on the fleet.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I will always remember one young person who came from a very difficult background. He came to join us for a week at sea and on the last evening he was helping me prep dinner.

He turned to me and said. “before this voyage, my life was pretty rubbish, but this week has made me realise there are lots of options out there and it doesn’t have to be this way”.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

We work hard to help young people to develop and strive to achieve their goals.

Please describe your job in three words

Challenging

Rewarding

Life-changing

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?​

Who knows?!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

After a 30-year career in aviation I hung up my shepherd’s crook for the skies and turned my gaze back towards the water.

I have always been drawn to water, be it swimming, white water kayaking or sailing. Over the years, I have turned my passions into a profession becoming a RYA Yacht Master, Cruising Instructor, and a White Water Coach. I have sailed for various sailing projects as a Skipper over the past 10 years, and in 2021 I was recruited by TSYT before being promoted to Skipper in 2023. 

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

As Skipper, I feel grateful to develop all that sail with TSYT. At the same time, I enjoy the challenge of delivering the sailing  programme and empowering all crew in their sail training experience. 

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust? 

Every voyage for me is memorable as the young people who sail with TSYT arrive from various backgrounds and I always remember the looks on their Day 1 faces!

“omg am I going to do this, pull on that and climb up the mast?”, some stating “I can’t  do that.”

By the end of the week, the transformation I see is priceless. Happy, smiling faces and a newfound confidence. For some of these young people, it’s truly life changing. This brings a smile to my face, and I say to myself ‘job done”.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Sailing opens the minds and hearts to all who sail on board with TSYT. Every day is a school for all, even for the sea staff. Being at sea is a great leveller, it helps to breakdown everyday barriers. This allows all to come together as a team and develop the individual at the same time. Be it a simple deck task, cooking , helming or the complexity of night navigation.

Please describe your job in three words

Challenging. Rewarding. Fun.

 If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

As I enjoy dancing, I would take Dad dancing to a new infamous level! ​

Please tell us a bit about yourself

My background is engineering and data communications, specifically Satellite and Mobile services (I worked in this area for nearly 20 years, running my own business for much of this time). I was able to retire early in 2018, and since then I have been able to focus my energies on another of my passions  – sailing!

I came to sailing late and have only been sailing for around 12 years, however in that time I have managed to cram in around 45,000 sea miles, including multiple crossings of the Atlantic and also the Pacific Ocean. Along the way I became a Commercially Endorsed Yacht Master Ocean and also Cruising Instructor.

I started sailing with TSYT at the beginning of 2018 when I joined Challenger 4 as voyage crew on a passage from Antigua to the UK, which ended up with me sailing the passage as the second mate. On my return, I started working regularly with TSYT and started skippering the Challengers in 2021.

If I am not sailing (which is quite rare these days), you will probably find me outdoors somewhere either getting dirty in a Land Rover or running up a hill somewhere. I particularly enjoy trail running and have completed a number of trail marathons and ultras.

If you have sailed with me, you will also know that I have a bit of thing about the importance of serving tea on a very regular basis whilst on board, yes please if the kettle’s on, are you making?

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

At a high level, my role as a Skipper is manage the boat and keep to everyone safe, and secure on board. The Skipper plans each voyage, including where the boat goes and the activities on board, to ensure that each crew member can maximise their development of new skills throughout their time with us.

It also includes keeping everyone on board well fed and watered, and of course ensuring an ample supply of tea!

With my engineering and technology background, I perhaps unsurprisingly have great love of all things STEM. To that end, I have been fortunate to be able lead a number of TSYT’s STEM focused voyages as I believe sailing provides the perfect framework for STEM focused development – from wind energy to aerodynamics, weather systems to the environment and cleaner seas, satellite navigation to tidal streams.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I don’t think there is one single moment on one voyage, rather there is a point in every voyage when the crew come together, they suddenly work as team, crew members are helping and supporting each other, new skills are being put into action, and they conduct themselves with new found belief and confidence in themselves.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

We are not a sailing charity, rather are youth development organisation that uses sailing as the tool to break down barriers, expand horizons and teach young people new life skills!

Please describe your job in three words

Inspiring, Changing, Rewarding (for me!)

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Well it would probably involve some sort of legislation regarding the compulsory serving of tea and biscuits on board sailing boats…

Is the kettle on?​

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’ve been working on the water commercially since 2013. I started of working in the Sporade islands in Greece as a flotilla skipper with the worlds leading flotilla company.

After 12 months I then moved to one of our biggest competitors in the Ionian – well in the Ionian I delivered day skipper/competent crew/ICC courses to people that wanted to learn how to sail. After this I spent  12 months working closely with other instructors to deliver the RYA syllabus to a high standard to people in the Ionian islands.

I’ve done many deliveries of new yachts back to the UK and also volunteered on the famous Earl of Pembroke which was in the new Alice in Wonderland film.

When I’m not sailing my time is mainly spent with my daughter but when I get the opportunity I kite surf in north Wales – I’m never to far away from water! When I fancy turning things up a notch I spend weekend racing superbikes around infamous race tracks around the UK.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I started Tall Ships youth trust as a first mate – I mainly work with youth groups from all walks of life. In this role I was quickly able to further develop my skills to progress to skipper in 14 months. I now deliver the TSYT experience to all as skipper or mate.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

When I first started with Tall Ships Youth Trust – it was the immediate sense of family and what we delivered as a team was truly amazing. I remember thinking – this is my time to give something back.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Simple. Tall Ships Youth Trust changes lives.

Please describe your job in three words

Epic Awesome Fun

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Being famous is overrated. I rather be life rich than have lots of money.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m a Mate here at TSYT and one of three Fleet Bosuns.

I’ve been sailing since 2018, originally as a young person on a voyage, and have been involved in sail training ever since.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

As a Mate I’m responsible for teaching young people how to do everything on board. From how to put sails up and down, to carrying out regular engine checks!

As Bosun, I help maintain our fleet. Every day is different but most days I can be found servicing one of the engines or crawling around in the bilge! 

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

One of my favourite memories at TSYT is soaring up the Irish Sea with a group of Trainee Watch Leaders.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

What we do at TSYT is like nothing else, the impact our voyages have on young people’s lives is truly limitless.

Please describe your job in three words

Varied

Exciting

Rewarding

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

I think being famous for sailing round the world would be amazing!! Our Challengers already are! ​

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I have been sailing since before I could tie my shoelaces. Unfortunately, my knots have not massively improved since then.

After discovering that boats were for me, I embarked on a quest to find a boat I could stand up inside! This, along with a love of teaching and sail training of course is what led me to Tall Ships Youth Trust, where I couldn’t be happier.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

As Mate and Fleet Bosun, I am always busy with something.

You may find me teaching navigation at the chart table or overseeing a sail hoist. I could be fixing a sink or playing a very intense game of UNO!

I love every second, no matter what I’m up to. 

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I will always remember crashing through the waves in the Irish Sea and getting completely soaked when changing a sail. The crew all loved it and were laughing and singing throughout.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Do you think you’re too old or too young to sail with TSYT?

Well, think again!

If you’re still unsure after thinking again, I’m pleased to let you know that TSYT offers trips for those from age 12 all the way up to age 80!

Sailing is for everyone!

Please describe your job in three words

YAAR!

Seadog!

Varied

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

A collection of stories for children primarily featuring a pirate who is there by mistake. ​

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I was born in Poland and moved to UK in 2016 and I will tell you a secret: I never though or considered England as a place to live, but here I am. Live in the Port City near the sea. I always felt strong connection to the water. Maybe it’s the mystery of the deep sea. Whatever it is, I will be always in love with the harbours, ships, and oceans. Here and anywhere else. There is something fascinating, magical, and wild. And we all need the wildness to explore and learn all things that are mysterious.

I love photography and photo editing; it gives me a lot of joy. It’s a process, its detail, it’s the moment when I stop the time for a bit longer.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I’m a Reservation Administrator. I’m the first point of contact with young people, their parents, and guardians. I’m processing all voyage bookings, from checking diet requirements, medical information to preparing voyage documentation for our Skipper and Mates.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Meeting young people on their first day of the voyage, seeing their excitement for the adventure, as well meeting them on their return and listen to all highlights of the voyage.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Everyone is passionate about what they do, every voyage we are working on helps young people to develop their skills, build their confidence and self-esteem. We give young people opportunity to discover themselves and grow.

Please describe your job in three words

Various, Motivating, Enjoyable.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Photography of something unique, not easy repeatable, something created from imagination.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m Bolade (pronounced Ball-la-day), a Nigerian living my best life in the UK. I started out as a social media manager, which I really enjoyed. That experience inspired me to open my own boutique social media marketing agency back home in Nigeria. After nearly 5 years of running my business, I decided to pursue a Master’s degree in marketing and user experience, which led me to move to the UK.

I owe a lot to my Dad for supporting my education. His sacrifices mean the world to me. I’m a family girl at heart – I absolutley love and cherish every member of my family (aside my dad; that would be my mum, three sisters, two brothers, and my sweet husband).

When I’m not working, you’ll find me jamming out to music, catching up with the world on social media or enjoying a meal at a nice restaurant.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

In my role as Digital, Engagement and Marketing Manager at Tall Ships Youth Trust, I focus on expanding our reach and engagement through digital channels. I’m responsible for reaching out to our audiences in creative ways, whether it’s through social media, email campaigns, or website management. I’m genuinely excited to dive in and contribute to our mission.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

With TSYT, you have the best people onshore and offshore, working passionately to make sure that the charity really does impact lives with its voyages!

Please describe your job in three words

New. Challenging. Creative.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

In this world can’t think of anything lol, but in another world definetly for music. I envy people who’ve got some pipe on them and can sing their lungs out.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

Having grown up in the seaside town of Lee-on-the-Solent, many of my happiest memories are at the beach, including many sunny birthdays with friends and making the most of our family beach hut.

I started a confectionery business during lockdown while in my final year studying Digital Marketing at the University of Portsmouth. So, I spend a lot of my time out of work baking and attending local markets. During the warmer months, I enjoy getting outdoors, exploring and trying new activities like paddleboarding.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

I joined TSYT to increase the awareness of the charity. Mostly, this is through creating engaging content which could be anything from writing blogs to filming TikToks. This work will get more people across the UK talking about Tall Ships Youth Trust so we can help more young people nationally. 

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

I almost studied musical theatre at college after loving Drama at school. So, possibly acting if I ever take a career turn! 

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’ve been jumping on and off boats all my life and started sailing at the age of 10, and fell in love with it. Starting with smaller boats and working up to bigger boats, I discovered TSYT as a teenager and became a Watch Leader.

I took a gap year before university to take part in the Clipper Round the World Race. Experiencing that is when I knew a career in sailing was for me, and that I wanted to incorporate youth work. I’ve worked up through the ranks to become a Skipper. Aside from sailing, I’m very passionate about music, being creative and video games.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

The role I play at the minute is two fold, I am both a Skipper and a Mate, but not on the same trips. It varies from week to week, whether that’s running around putting sails up, or having a sing song with the young people after all the jobs are completed.

I can be found up the mast fixing something, in the engine or the galley, or even unblocking a the heads (toilets). No two weeks are the same, but all are just as fun. For me my role is creating a good experience for the young people we work with, pushing them out of their comfort zones to prove they can achieve anything, and having a giggle while doing it.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

There are so many memorable moments from working with TSYT, from a young person being obsessed with catching a fish and then not knowing what to do with it once they had, to the boat being hit by a wave and finding the young people laughing on the floor of the galley covered in a mix of soapy water and hot chocolate powder. Every trip brings differed memories, some of which will make me laugh forever.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Once you’ve got the sailing bug, you can’t get rid of it.

Please describe your job in three words

Fun. Exciting. Indescribable.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Coming up with some crazy invention that no one knew they needed, but changes peoples lives, like a suncream spraying machine!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I started sailing dinghies when I was six year old, by 18, I’d moved onto windsurfing, which I have done ever since.

Throughout that time I’ve also sailed on yachts, but much more so recently, and I’m still learning lots!

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

My role at TSYT is to help keep everyone safe on board and make sure everyone has a great time.

Learning and personal development take care of themselves once people feel safe and are having fun.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Sailing past the Needles on a Challenger, accompanied by a pod of dolphins and watching the looks of awe and glee on the young crew. Amazing life-changing experiences can happen in our own backyard!

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Every week young people do something that they never believed they could, and they discover that they are good at it.

Please describe your job in three words

Fun, fun and fun!

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Having absolutely no interest in being rich and famous!

Please tell us a bit about yourself  

I am a commercially endorsed RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore and have been sailing for more than 20 years. I first sailed with TSYT in January 2008 on one of the first voyages after the Trust obtained the Challenger yachts and have been volunteering ever since.

I worked as a pharmacist for thirty years, including five years as a counsellor and prescriber for a drug and alcohol team. I have just received my bus pass and am officially ‘retired’, but life somehow is as busy as ever with DIY for my two daughters, and being a Secondary Academy Governor.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

I usually sail as Mate on the Challengers, but sometimes Skipper the ketch. My primary role is to ensure that what needs to happen, happens safely and that everyone has a good time.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust? 

There have been too many memorable moments. Some are related to the sailing, some will be related to the wonderful natural environment that surrounds us such as sunsets, (and sunrises!) or seeing dolphins, but also the difference we see in so many young people after just five days of being on board.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust? 

Sailing can be truly life-enhancing, because young people learn so much about themselves on a voyage. They may never sail again, but will have grown through the experience. The team, both onshore and offshore are all passionate about developing the young people who come sailing with us. 

Please describe your job in three words  

Encouraging, Empowering, Enjoyable. 

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?  

Mending things, sometimes it appears to be particularly anything to do with the plumbing!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I have worked in the sailing industry for almost 20 years having started out as a dinghy instructor before becoming a RYA Yachtmaster and instructor. I started working in sail training in 2015, I also work for some Solent based sailing schools, and Clipper Ventures

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

As a Mate, my job is to support the Skipper in the safe running of the voyage and yacht, by ensuring that the voyage crew learn, have fun, and stay safe.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

 Doing the Biscay trip back in August and giving the group a really memorable adventure.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust

Now more then ever youth work is so important!

Please describe your job in three words

Manic. Wet. Fun.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I was born and raised in the Channel Islands, which turned out to be the perfect boating playground from my toddler years onwards. It is an easy hop from there to the North and West coasts of France, where I have spent quite a bit of time racing and cruising over the years!

My first Tall Ships Youth Trust adventure was the Fastnet campaign of 2017, and after that I was hooked, returning to do weekends across the Channel, island-hopping around the Caribbean, another Fastnet in 2021, and of course volunteering for youth voyages along the UK’s South Coast, and as far afield as Spain. I became a Volunteer Mate in 2022.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

Essentially my job is to work with the Skipper and the team on board to make sure everyone who sails with us is having fun, learning a lot and ultimately doing both safely. There are occasions when I will be fixing heads, doing safety checks, navigating, or repairing sails, and other occasions when I’ll be teaching young people to tie bowlines, cook and clean, run engine checks or lead a team. It is a varied role and no two days look the same, which is what makes it exciting!

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

There are too many memorable moments to pick just one. Both Rolex Fastnet campaigns were memorable, and came with a huge sense of achievement. There was a great sense of freedom and relief at being “off grid” and without internet connections or phone signal, we had the chance to really get to know each other and form some great lasting friendships as a crew.

Likewise in 2022, we sailed with a group of young people, to Spain and back from Portsmouth. The group started out as strangers to one another, but quickly formed strong friendships, and despite their differences, and in some cases disabilities, they worked tirelessly as a team to achieve an incredible feat, sailing over 1000 nautical miles in two weeks.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

We are all passionate about sailing, but personal development and skill-building is really at the heart of what we do. Sailing with TSYT is great for improving confidence, leadership and communication, and if you can learn to gel as a team on a boat at sea, you can do it anywhere.

Please describe your job in three words

Exciting, Unpredictable. Rewarding.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

My quirky and ever-growing collection of sunglasses and beanie hats!​

Please tell us a bit about yourself

As a young adult, I left my birth country of Brazil with a one-way ticket to travel the world. Three years later, while going through the Greek Islands, I had a chance encounter with sailing yachts. This one opportunity led to an unpaid job as a deckhand on board a classic sailing yacht and it changed the course of my life. It expanded my horizon and gave me a new interest and focus. No, I didn’t become a professional sailor, but I did sailed more than 25,000 miles across oceans in the years that followed. Afterwards, I became a professional Sound Engineer working for the BBC and then Pinewood Studios. Now I work freelance and volunteer as a Mate for TSYT, helping to empower young people to see beyond their horizon.

Please tell us a bit about your role  at Tall Ships Youth Trust

The Mate is the nominated deputy of the Skipper. They are the senior watchkeeper and share responsibility with the Skipper in maintaining proper standards of watch keeping, safety, ship handling, navigation and log keeping. They are responsible to the Skipper for the good order, cleanliness and proper running of the vessel, and for encouraging efficiency and good conduct of the crew afloat and ashore.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Night sailing in the Irish Sea with a well motivated young crew under a starry sky in a fresh breeze? Magical!

Lundy Island – returning from a shore trip back to Challenger 1 sitting at anchor two cables offshore, with a young crew rowing the dinghy and vocalising at the top of their voices the melody tune to Pirates of the Caribbean being played on deck? Priceless!

Playing card games with the voyage crew after a hard day’s sail? Great fun!

Going down below after putting the boat to bed for the night to the wonderful smells coming from the galley, where the watch are hard at work to feed the whole crew! Yes!

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Everyone working with TSYT are here for one reason, to offer young people an opportunity to experience daily life on board a sailing ship, so that by working together as a team, pulling together “two, six, heave!”, following leads, leading tasks, understanding the importance of discipline, all together may increase self esteem, self confidence, trust in their shipmates, and perhaps expand their horizons as it did for me all those years ago.

Please describe your job in three words

Support, safeguard, empower.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

My incredible sourdough bread!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

Now retired, I have pretty much spent my entire career working to support young people. I had the privilege of setting up from scratch, a new youth offending team (YOT) in 1999. A YOT no less, where the idea was to work to prevent youth crime by recruiting a multi-agency team to find and deliver interventions that would develop the young people and help them turn their lives around and make a positive contribution to their communities. The team was very diverse and made up of police officers, psychologists, teachers, probation, and health workers, all working together with the one clear aim.

Whenever possible, we used the latest evidence-based interventions and achieved some remarkable results, proof that the right kind of investment into young people can reap rich rewards. A story, of course, that lies at the heart of the work of Tall Ships Youth Trust.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

On retiring, I found a natural home with TSYT and over the past 13 years, I have sailed on many trips helping to young people and adults to realise their dreams, as well as realising a few of my own, including sailing across the Atlantic twice. Sailing round Great Britain and to Norway.

Currently I work as a Volunteer Mate on the Trust’s 55ft ketch, completing up to three trips a year, mainly involving teaching young people to sail.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

En route to the Azores beating into a storm with winds of 54 knots and 10 metre waves, with two young people on my watch with safety lines attached, we crawled towards the bow to recover the stay sail, huge waves breaking over us, automatic life jacket  going off and absolutely completely soaked but we achieved our aim and lived to tell the tale.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

At Tall Ships Youth Trust, we use sailing as a tool for young people to achieve so much more than new practical skills. Our voyages engage and motivate young people to make the best of their lives.

Please describe your job in three words

Challenging. Inspiring. Satisfying

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

As Prime Minister, I would make a law to ensure that all young people were fully included as per their individual needs into their communities with access to excellent education, sports, leisure, social, work opportunities and family support. Young people’s wellbeing would be society’s number one priority on my watch.

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I’m a currently a Volunteer Mate, and working towards getting a commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Coastal. I’ve been sailing since I was 8. I started with dingy sailing, then upgraded to yachting when I came on a voyage as a young person in 2018.

I’m going to study Economics at University in September 2023 and in the meantime I’m making the most of the opportunities to sail and work with young people here at Tall Ships Youth Trust.

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

As a Mate, I am in charge of directing onboard activities and get closely involved with everything our youth crews do on voyage, from teaching essential cooking skills to sail hoists.

I act on direction from the Skipper and you could find me supervising an engine check, while discussing the latest TikTok trends. ?

I am the first point of contact for any questions that the crew have and I love seeing how quickly we bond as a team on board.

I also do maintenance work on, which is a lot of fun, fixing and improving our fleet!

What has been your most memorable moment?

Every voyage has memorable moments, but a few special ones include seeing shooting stars while sailing across the Bay of Biscay, every time we see dolphins (cue me going “look dolphins wow!” for about 10 minutes straight), the ‘bucket of friendship’ that a group named as they passed the sick bucket around, and watching young people form a love for sailing over the course of a voyage.

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

We are a big family, living and working together for weeks at a time gives us an especially close bond that you don’t find elsewhere. We support each other unconditionally, and I deeply appreciate all the encouragement I have received, both as a young person on voyage and now as a Watch Leader.

Please describe your job in three words

Exhilarating. Fulfilling. Entertaining.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

I’d quite like to be famous for living entirely off grid, and self sustaining. That would be cool!

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I first encountered TSYT when my mother did the 2015 Fastnet race as part of Challenger 2’s all-female crew, and I came aboard on an individual’s voyage as soon as I was old enough! I fell in love with the boats and the sense of belonging I felt as a part of the team and got invited back to train up as a Watch Leader.

Since then, I’ve been on countless voyages, the highlights of which include crossing Biscay and competing in the 2023 Fastnet race as part of the youth team! I’m currently at university, but when I’m not studying, I’m sailing!

Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust

At sea I’m a Watch Leader, I lead a team of young people under the watchful eyes of the Skipper and Mate. I work with my watch to complete tasks on the boat, from hoisting sails, to cooking dinner and washing up!

In 2023, I was invited to become a Young Ambassador for TSYT. In this role, I attend open days and fundraising events to tell donors and potential voyagers my story, and how TSYT has helped to form the person I am today.

What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?

Every voyage is special, but one moment sticks out. We were heading past the Needles in particularly bumpy seas, heavy rain and with waves crashing over the bow. We were all huddled together in the cockpit, soaking wet but having the time of our lives singing songs at the tops of our voices!

What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?

That you never stop learning! Whether its information about the boats, or a cool fact from a member of the crew, I always walk away from voyages knowing a little bit more than when I arrived!

Please describe your job in three words

Adventure / Opportunity / Excitement!!

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Probably for being able to sing many, many sea shanties.