Three matriculants from the Lawhill Maritime Centre in Simon’s Town have the opportunity of a lifetime to learn the skills needed to navigate an international superyacht on a trip to Mallorca, Spain later this month.
The trip, arranged by Marine Inspirations, an organisation that successfully empowered over 50 learners from South Africa through its partnership with Lawhill and other organisations, is set to take place over two weeks.
“I want to be an inspiration, not only to the children of the Lawhill Maritime Centre in Simon’s Town but to all the kids in the townships,” said Simamkele Ntingiso (18), head boy of Simon’s Town School.
With a keen interest in marine engineering he, together with Nhlakanipho Lebengu and Liqhawe Mdoda of the Lawhill Maritime Centre at Simon’s Town School and Liyabona Njingolo of the Royal Cape Yacht Club, is set to meet various industry professionals in yacht construction, design and technological development.
“I come all the way from Gugulethu, a place known for gang violence and many things, but here I am going to Spain,” he said.
The matric learner said he was inspired by past learners who successfully returned from their trip to Spain with experience and knowledge.
“My upbringing was not a normal one with two parents. I have a single mother who is very strong and she helped me become the person I am.
“What piqued my interest in the superyacht industry was when I came to the Lawhill Maritime Centre in 2021 and saw all the past (learners) who went to Spain and actually worked there.
“I saw how successful they were and we saw them as role models and I thought that is what I want to be.”
With a dream to become a marine engineer, the young man believes exposure to the industry will be life-changing.
“This trip will benefit me a lot because I will be able to meet industry professionals, especially in the marine engineering industry, which I have a huge passion for.
“Someday I would like to be an engineer on a superyacht and what I hope to gain is knowledge because knowledge is power.”
Lebengu (18), from Welkom in the Free State, says he was keen to learn about engines in the various disciplines of superyachts and ships.
“When I watched the movie Titanic I became interested in the superyacht and maritime industry.
“I believe that without the ocean 90% of the world would starve, and the maritime industry is broad and there are many opportunities.
“Going to Spain will be an eye-opening experience for me and give me direction in what I want to be, which is a marine engineer.”
Mdoda (18), from Cape Town, said working in the superyacht industry is something he always wanted to do.
“Being part of this trip is special to me because of my interest in superyachting since I was young. This trip will enhance my sailing skills and knowledge of sailing, and encourage me to be more comfortable in sailing.”
His advice to other young people is never to give up.
“It’s always good to fight for what you want and never to give up. Don’t let where you come from deter you.
“I certainly never thought that one day I would be selected to go to Spain, one of the most special moments a person can ask for.”
