Corporate Social Responsibility
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Sharing our passion, and giving back to the world
One of the key things that helps to drive our teams forward is our passion to help and serve the communities local to us. We pride ourselves on open communication, breaking down barriers in both community and industry, treating everyone with the same values of quality of service and respect.
We feel it is vital to put back into the communities where we operate, this takes many forms from larger formal organisations such as The Princes Trust, through to low key direct action such as shipping clothing to children in Grenada, a life boat to Tortola, play equipment to Bequia, and much needed aid in the aftermath of disasters.
Conquering the Pacific: Team Ohana's Triumph in the World's Toughest Row
The human spirit has an uncanny ability to persevere through even the most formidable challenges. Team Ohana's awe-inspiring journey in the World's Toughest Row stands as a testament to the courage and resilience of the mind and body. With the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean as their battleground, this team of four adventurers embarked on an epic quest to row from Monterey Bay, California, all the way to the enchanting shores of Kauai, Hawaii.
The World's Toughest Row
The World's Toughest Row is a renowned event that challenges participants to row across the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, pushing their physical and mental limits to the max. With unpredictable weather patterns, relentless waves, and sheer isolation, this gruelling 2,800-mile rowing challenge is not for the faint of heart. Teams from all corners of the world gather to showcase their determination and strength.
Kestrel’s Involvement
Kestrel was specifically chosen to handle the shipping of Team Ohana's boat from Southampton to Monterey and back. The planning for this logistics operation began in collaboration with Oliver James from Rannoch last November.
We were selected by the organizers based on our prior experience in shipping their boat to and from the USA and the Canary Islands during the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.
Let's dive into the incredible tale of Team Ohana's journey and the amazing charities they support.
The Cause
Team Ohana, a group of four intrepid individuals bonded by a shared spirit of family and adventure, took on the World's Toughest Row with an unwavering determination to make their mark and champion their cause. In their own words, their ‘why’ is:
“To raise awareness and make an impact on these veterans PTSD and suicide statistics. We have identified an amazing organization that is making a discernible impact.
To raise awareness about Neurofibromatosis (NF) and help in the research of this disease affecting 1 in 3000 births.”
Charity 1: K9s for Warriors
K9s for Warriors aims to combat veteran suicide by pairing veterans in need with service dogs. The organization rescues dogs from high-kill shelters, extending a lifeline to both the dogs and the veterans. These service dogs play a crucial role in helping veterans regain independence and dignity in their lives.
Charity 2: The Children's Tumor Foundation
Neurofibromatosis (NF), impacts 1 in every 3,000 births, can result in various challenges such as blindness, deafness, bone abnormalities, disfigurement, learning difficulties, disabling pain, or cancer. As of now, there is no cure. The Children's Tumor Foundation's mission is to support the NF community by driving research, expanding knowledge, and advancing care for those affected.
You can still donate here.
Overcoming Challenges
Rowing across the Pacific Ocean is no simple feat. Team Ohana encountered an array of challenges on their journey that tested their mental and physical endurance. From battling waves to navigating unpredictable weather, every moment was a testament to their resolve and commitment to their cause.
Arrival
After days and nights of rowing, Team Ohana's dedication paid off as they finally crossed the finish line, triumphantly arriving on the shores of Kauai, Hawaii. Their incredible feat of rowing from Monterey Bay to Kauai showcased the strength of the human spirit and the power of teamwork. The remarkable accomplishment was amplified by the knowledge that their efforts would go on to benefit charitable causes close to their hearts.
Team Ohana's courage, determination, and passion for making a positive impact is inspiring. As they step off the boats and back into their everyday lives, their remarkable achievement will be a shining example of what can be accomplished when we dare to dream big and unite as one resilient family.
The Prince's Trust
The Prince's Trust, founded in 1976, is one of the United Kingdom's most successful funding organisations. We at Kestrel never fail to be inspired by their ongoing efforts to uplift the younger generations.
In January 2017, we partnered with the Prince's Trust International, a new International arm launched in 2015, to deliver their 'Get into Logistics' programme. The 'Get into' is an employability scheme in Barbados with the aim of helping disadvantaged young people on the island gain vital sector-specific skills. Our first wave of students on the 'Get into Logistics' programme all graduated with flying colours.
Mark Davidian from Kestrel had the pleasure of giving the participants of 'Get into Logistics' their graduation certificates. He heard first-hand the benefits of the programme to the young people involved.
I was very honoured to attend the Prince's Trust International Event and to meet this first wave of students – an inspiring group of enthusiastic, energetic young people looking to find a start and hopefully building a career in logistics. As the future of their industry they need to be given a chance. The benefits from this programme are already being realised in Barbados and we look forward to seeing the programme expand across the Caribbean region.
Mark Davidian
One of the biggest success stories of the 'Get into Logistics' programme was our trainee Orian. We were so impressed with her commitment and enthusiasm, we offered her a job in our offices in Barbados. We're pleased to report that she accepted, saying:
Six weeks ago I knew nothing about shipping! In five weeks I have learnt so much. I am looking forward to finding out so much more about the shipping and logistics industry. I am particularly looking forward to seeing a product on the shelves in Barbados knowing that I played a part in importing it.
We have also had the pleasure of working with the Prince's Trust International to sponsor their very successful 'Get into Hospitality' programme. This is an intensive 12-week programme which supports 15 young people who are not yet ready to enter employment and works with them to develop not only their confidence but also other key skills they will require through a residential week, community project and work placements. This programme also boasts a high degree of success with helping young people to find opportunities within the hospitality industry.
Here at Kestrel, we owe our success to the many different communities around the globe, so we are proud to support those who support us. We remain aware of the many different issues that these communities face, and are eager to help them however we can as it is part of the Mission Statement that Kestrel is built upon.