The YOTS Foundation (Yachting Opportunities Training & Skills) has been officially registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales.
Launched in 2024, the Foundation’s mission is to help young people develop yachting-related skills, engage them in training for careers in the sector and encourage the industry to create meaningful work placements and internships.
Research consistently shows that blue spaces boost psychological and physical well-being, with academic studies concluding that access to water-based training dramatically improves outcomes for young people.
“Achieving official charity status is a pivotal moment for the YOTS Foundation and validates the importance of what we're trying to achieve,” said Stewart Campbell, managing director of BOAT International and YOTS Foundation trustee.“The superyacht industry has given so many of us incredible careers and opportunities, and it’s our responsibility to open those same doors for the next generation, particularly young people who might never have considered a yachting career simply because they've never had access to the water.”
The YOTS Foundation invites businesses across the sector to host paid work placements and internships. Training organisations with established track records in youth development and water-based education can apply for funding to expand their programmes and reach more young people.
Putting this mission into action, the Foundation recently made its first donation to Oarsome Chance, a charity supporting disengaged and disadvantaged young people across Gosport, Havant and Portsmouth. The organisation provides practical learning pathways and alternative provision to re-engage students who are struggling with mainstream education.
Paul Napthine, CEO of Oarsome Chance, said, "We are absolutely delighted to receive the support of the YOTS Foundation, which is helping fund vital elements of our sailing programme - from powerboat qualifications for young people to the equipment needed to get them on the water. This funding will help them build independence, confidence, and a sense of achievement, while opening their eyes to the opportunities the maritime industry could offer for their future."
The YOTS Foundation is supported by a group of trustees including Toby Allies, managing director, Pendennis; Natasha Ambrose, yacht manager, Edmiston; Charlie Baker, yacht designer and director, RWD; Aino-Leena Grapin, CEO, Winch Design; Georgina Menheneott, partner for ESG, Burgess; William Maclachlan, partner, HFW and Toby Moore, CEO, Informa Prestige.
The YOTS Foundation is calling on the superyacht community to help create meaningful opportunities for the next generation. Businesses across the sector are invited to host paid work placements and internships, with the Foundation providing financial support to ensure young people can participate regardless of their circumstances. Training organisations with established track records in youth development and water-based education can apply for funding to expand their programmes and reach more young people.
For more information, please contact info@yots-foundation.com.
Visit The YOTS Foundation here