The Clipperaroundtheworld yacht race is one of nature’s greatest challenges and an endurance test like no other. With no previous sailing experience, the participants cover 40,000 nautical miles around the world in just over 11 months. 16 individual races over 8 legs, a fleet of 12 identical racing yachts, a team of enthusiastic people from all over the world – a very special kind of adventure. And for some, the challenge of a lifetime.
This was the case for Charlotte Boitumelo Maila and Lourance Sewisa Magane from the Ndlovu Care Group’s CHAMP children’s program. In collaboration with the Sapinda Rainbow Foundation, children and young people are encouraged, selected and supported to take part in this life-changing experience. The initiative was launched in 2013. Out of 200 applicants from across the country, 30 young people were invited to the selection process in Durban. All candidates were put through their paces in the aptitude assessment. They had to complete a series of tasks, were given an introduction to sailing and their communication and presentation skills were also tested. The experience the children gain during their time at sea is intended to influence their personal development so that they can confidently take their new skills into their community and inspire others.
Eight young South Africans were selected, two of whom come from the Ndlovu Care Group’s CHAMP program. They will each complete a team of people of all ages and nationalities, who will each complete one leg of the race. They will be at sea for a month without a stopover. Charlotte will complete the 6th leg from Qingelao (China) to San Francisco and Lourance will complete the 3rd leg from Cape Town to Australia. The 3-day selection training in Durban was the first time Lourance had ever seen the sea.
On April 15, they will fly to Great Britain for an intensive four-week training program. To ensure the children are not left unaccompanied after the race, a baseline study will be conducted to look at the background and skills of each participant and the impact assessment up to 3 years after the race. The participants are supported by a socially and psychologically trained counselor for at least 3 years after the race, who helps these young people to find employment that suits their particular abilities.
A great start to an exciting race and a whole new life!
Read more about the Ndlovu Care Group’s CHAMP children’s program under Projects.
