Recently The RYS Foundation held a reception to bring together key influencers in the maritime industry. It was held at the RYS in Cowes and was attended by the High Sherrif, both our Island MPs and key people from UKSA, IOW College, island schools, boatbuilders, harbour authorities and many other maritime related businesses. Ten enthusiastic young people who the Foundation has recently supported helped to host the evening.
This event generated some exciting new connections and ideas to follow up over the coming months.
In 2025 The Foundation is celebrating its 10th anniversary. It has supported over 300 young Islanders into training, education and employment in the Island’s marine and maritime industries. It has awarded over half a million pounds in grants so far, supporting jobs ranging from marine engineering to superyacht crew positions, entirely funded by RYS members.
Founded in 2015 to honour the bicentenary of the Royal Yacht Squadron, the Foundation was set up with a single aim – to give back to the Isle of Wight Community by empowering local youth with the skills and confidence to succeed.
“The Foundation was created to serve the community that has supported the Squadron for generations,” said Carron Snagge OBE DL, Chairman of the Foundation. “We knew there were many talented young people on the Island who simply needed a helping hand to realise their potential, and ten years on, we’ve seen what that support can achieve.”
Working with schools, colleges, local authorities, training providers, and employers, the Foundation offers funding, usually between £250 and £3,000, and occasionally more, to support young people aged 15 to 29. This funding helps cover training costs, apprenticeships, equipment, travel, and essential qualifications, breaking down the financial barriers that often prevent island young people from progressing.