Launching the Caribbean Crew Scholarship

We are excited to announce the launch of the Caribbean Crew Scholarship, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support young people from the Caribbean who wish to pursue careers in the superyacht industry.

Officially launching at Antigua Charter Show 2024, this scholarship was developed in collaboration with the ABSA (Antigua & Barbuda Sailing Association) and Ondeck Training Maritime. The aim is to provide a chance for talented sailors in the Caribbean wanting to pursue a maritime career but may be lacking the resources, contacts and opportunities to make that happen.

The Caribbean Crew Scholarship is focused on providing talented Caribbean nationals, aged 18-25, with the qualifications, training, and career development opportunities needed to succeed in the superyacht sector. The scholarship covers the cost of essential training, from STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) courses to PDSD (Proficiency in Designated Security Duties) certification. Plus, scholarship recipients will receive mentorship, networking opportunities, and industry connections to help recipients secure full time roles and navigate their way through a professional, successful and fun career at sea, with the support of the full Burgess 360 services.

This year’s scholarship recipients, Junella King and Jahmarly Edwards, were both selected for their passion, potential and professionalism. They are currently completing their course with Ondeck before embarking on their careers with placement support from Burgess and its network of industry partners.

Burgess is calling on captains, yacht owners, and other businesses within the yachting sector to get involved in the scholarship programme by offering additional training, career opportunities, and mentorship to future recipients. We are hopeful that more industry partners will help build on the success of the scholarship and contribute to the long-term development of diverse talent in the industry. 

Georgina Menheneott, Partner & Head of ESG at Burgess says, ‘We also really hope that once established in Antigua, this is a model we can replicate and take further afield to other areas where yachting can increase its positive impact.’

One of the key partners of the Caribbean Crew Scholarship is Ondeck Training Maritime, who are sharing the costs with Burgess as well as providing the necessary maritime training and certification for recipients.

‘We’re delighted to be part of the Caribbean Crew Scholarship and to help shape the careers of future superyacht crew members,’ said Peter Anthony, Owner/Director, Ondeck Maritime Training. ‘The Caribbean has an abundance of untapped talent, and this scholarship not only provides them with the qualifications they need but also opens doors to a global network of industry leaders. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this initiative will have on both the recipients and the superyacht industry as a whole.’

The scholarship programme is now accepting applications for its next round, with a focus on helping young people from across the Caribbean enter the superyacht industry.

As a part of the partnership, Ondeck is offering a discount to all Burgess crew who need to complete training while out there in Antigua, just mention 'BURGESS' when booking the courses. Get in touch with your Burgess contact to find out more.