The Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation is an award-winning not-for-profit organisation based in Fremantle, Western Australia. They provide experiential learning and leadership development programs, primarily for people aged 14-25. We had the opportunity to chat to Esther Vos-Poiesz about the benefits of the experience for university students.
Challenges…
The STS Leeuwin II is a working ship and our youth development programs provide a supportive environment where participants are encouraged to be involved in all aspects of ship operations, from sailing, steering, navigating and cleaning the ship to climbing the mast. The Leeuwin operates under the principle of ‘challenge by choice’ and the level of challenge is up to each participant. Our many years of operation clearly demonstrate that the more each participant is willing to challenge themselves, the more they take away from the experience.
Skills development…
We are dedicated to the delivery of youth development programs that are both physically and emotionally challenging. Our programs help young people reach their personal potential through the development of social confidence and relationship skills in four broad areas: leadership, communication skills, teamwork and sense of community.
The outcomes of the program and personal development achieved are transferable into all facets of the trainees’ lives as they phase into adulthood as future employees and responsible citizens in our communities.
Benefits from an employer’s point of view…
- Trainees value and implement practices that promote personal growth and wellbeing.
- Trainees are self-motivated and confident in their approach to learning and able to work individually and collaboratively.
- Trainees recognise that everyone has the right to feel valued and be safe and in this regard, understand their rights and obligations and behave responsibly.
- Trainees have developed a range of interpersonal skills specifically related to working as a team member and living in a small, confined space with others.
