Students from Ashcroft High School and South Sydney High School were given the opportunity through their participation in The Beacon Foundation to attend a Q&A session with Sir Ben Ainslie, Olympic gold medallist and his BAR extreme racing team.
The team, sponsored by J.P. Morgan, were in Sydney for the final stage of the Extreme Sailing Series held on the iconic Sydney Harbour.
The students made their way from their schools to take part in the intimate session aboard the magnificent extreme boat moored outside the Opera House.
The J.P. Morgan BAR team shared their personal stories with the students including how the sailors first became involved with the sport and the passion, hard work and determination that got them where they are today. The young people were also given signed booklets and caps from the team.
It was an empowering session for all the students, some of whom had not visited the CBD or Sydney Harbour before.
Ashcroft High School student Tara commented:
“It was exciting to talk to the sailing team and listen to their experiences. I enjoyed learning how they got to where they are today. It was also interesting to hear how they balanced their daily training with their studies. From this experience I feel motivated.”
Connie Sowter from the Beacon Foundation commented:
“It is amazing to be able to offer these once in a lifetime opportunities to our Beacon schools and we are incredibly grateful to J.P. Morgan for providing the experience.”
The Beacon Foundation works with schools and communities across Australia to help young people to increase their aspirations and skills to choose positive pathways from education to meaningful employment. It works collaboratively with schools, local businesses and corporate partners to deliver programs and opportunities to students that prepare them for work and inform them of the different career choices available.
J.P. Morgan is a partner of The Beacon Foundation through its relationship with Social Ventures Australia.