A South African sailing charity is calling on the public to help it secure an international award, with voting closing at 14:00 on Monday 2 November.

The Little Optimist Trust & Sailing Academy has been named one of four finalists for the World Sailing 11th Hour Racing Impact Award, competing against organisations from the United States, Germany and India.

The award recognises organisations making a meaningful difference through sailing and forms part of the annual World Sailing Awards, which celebrate achievements in international sailing and the sport’s positive impact on communities.

The Little Optimist Trust uses sailing and ocean-based therapy programmes to empower marginalised and under-resourced children by building their confidence, developing life skills and raising awareness of the marine environment. Its programmes also aim to create pathways to education and employment in the marine industry.

Global Recognition

The nomination offers the organisation an opportunity to showcase South Africa internationally and highlight how sailing can become more accessible to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Founder Greg Bertish said the nomination represented a defining moment for the Trust and its vision.

“This is an enormous honour, not just for The Little Optimist Trust, but for South Africa. We have an opportunity to put our country on the map and show the world how sailing can change lives. More importantly, we want to help change the face of sailing worldwide, making it a sport that welcomes, inspires and empowers young people from every background,” he said.

He said to be recognised alongside such “incredible international organisations” is already an achievement.

“But to win would send an even more powerful message: that a small South African organisation with a big dream can make a real difference on the world stage.”

Public Vote

Bertish urged South Africans to support the organisation by voting, regardless of their knowledge of sailing.

“We’re asking every South African to get behind us. You don’t have to know anything about sailing to make a difference. All you need to do is cast your vote and help us bring this award home.”

The winner will be determined through a combination of public voting and an expert judging panel, with each contributing 50% to the final result.

The winner will be announced at the World Sailing Awards ceremony in Qingdao, China, on Wednesday, 18 November.

To vote visit https://www.sailing.org/world-sailing-awards-2026/

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