Investing in our future

This weekend we hosted a camp for a group of students who have shown interest in a career in Maritime. The group included a 2nd year student at Durban University of Technology; four Sea Cadets from TS Woltemade and twelve learners from Lawhill Maritime Centre, seven of whom hold bursaries from the General Botha Old Boys Association. The camp was generously sponsored by SAIMI (South African International Maritime Institute) and we based ourselves at the Felix Unite venue on the banks of the Breede River.The programme started on the Wednesday and on Saturday mentors and sponsors were invited to observe the final session, a rescue scenario, and then join the students for the closing dinner.Each lecture was followed by an opportunity to practice what they had learnt. The material is part of the curriculum for our rescue crew and includes modules ranging from capsize training and swift water rescue to managing stress and dealing with conflict.Thank you to our course facilitators, Rico and Mark, for training these young men and women - they leave with new skills and great memories. Andy MacLennan, SAIMI, talks to the group about the opportunities in the maritime sector Buren van Wyk is awarded the plaque for determination and overall positive attitude during the camp, by Captain Tony Nicholas Captain Keith Burchell, Chairman of GBOBABF Mark Benecke, Rico Menezies and Captain Blackie Swart with : Buren van Wyk, Sabelo Mthumkhulu, Ludwe Ntshete, Shukri Kaffoor, Smangaliso Dlamini, Lutho Thomas, Tyrick Herwel, Moegammat Abrahams, Ngabelwa Nikwe, Dillon Davids, Mpilo Mthethwa, Nerissa Sucram, Nikita Adams, Owami Zulu, Rachma Hendricks and Anga Manakaza Practicing the huddle to preserve body heat. The students show determination during the huddle exercise Preparing for the capsize training drill Practical session with throw bags Mastering the crocs Safety first Swimming exercise Mentors and sponsors arrive to observe the scenario Encouragement and team work Students faced their fears and overcame personal challenges Briefing the team Lie on your back and float Attitude over altitude Dillon Davids with Mark and Rico Rachma Hendricks with Mark and Rico Tyrick Herwel, Moegammat Abrahams, Dillon Davids and Rachma HendricksThe South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) serves South Africa and the African continent by promoting skills development, education, training and research that supports growth of the blue economy.