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.
GDM Lindex Charity Go-Karting Race
Each year, tensions run high at Kestrel HQ as the management team begin the grueling selection process to nominate the fastest, most furious Kestrel employees to zoom to glory in the annual Charity Go-Karting event. This particular race organised by our fantastic customer GDM Lindex, has become somewhat of an annual tradition, and after 22 years of high-octane action, has raised significant funds for a number of chosen charities.
This year, there was a set target of £2,500 to be raised and donated to a fantastic cause; Beaumond House Community Hospice, a charity that provides palliative care to patients and support to their families at no cost.
Two Kestrel teams geared-up to take on the opposition, and despite fierce competition from the opposing 22 teams, flew through the finishing flags in a respectable 8th and 18th position. Taking prime podium position were the ‘Blasters’ from JB Blasters, ‘RB Organic’ from Produce World pinched the silver, closely followed by the ‘Nitro Bunnies’ from the hosts GDM Lindex who finished for third place.
Thanks to gallant efforts of all the teams and supporters, a final total of £2,745.00 was successfully raised. There’s no doubt that Kestrel will be back, accelerating with a vengeance next year!
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.