A small South African charity with a big heart and an even bigger mission is making waves on the international stage once again, and now it is calling on the nation to rally behind its vision.
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The Little Optimist Trust & Sailing Academy, based in Cape Town, has officially been named one of four finalists for the prestigious 2026 World Sailing 11th Hour Racing Impact Award, a global honour that recognises organisations making a meaningful difference through the power of sailing.
Flying the South African flag alongside fellow nominees from the United States, Germany, and India, The Little Optimist Trust has a rare opportunity to bring this international accolade home to Mzansi. However, securing the title requires a collective effort, as public support will directly shape the outcome, and the deadline to cast votes is fast approaching.
Challenging perceptions and transforming young lives
Forming part of the annual World Sailing Awards, the ceremony celebrates the very best in international sailing while honouring non-profit organisations that use the sport as a vehicle for social change.
For The Little Optimist Trust, this nomination transcends the idea of simply walking away with a trophy. It serves as a vital platform to shine a global spotlight on South Africa, demonstrate the life-changing impact of maritime youth programs, and challenge long-held stereotypes about who gets to participate in a sport historically associated with privilege.
Founded on the core belief that sailing can ignite hope, build resilience, and unlock hidden potential, the Trust works tirelessly to make the ocean accessible to young people from marginalised communities. By introducing youth to sailing, the academy opens doors to new career paths, personal growth, and transformative experiences that many would otherwise never have imagined.
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Organisation founder Greg Bertish emphasises that this global recognition marks a defining milestone for the Trust’s long-term vision, highlighting how a local initiative can reshape international standards of inclusivity.
“This is an enormous honour, not just for The Little Optimist Trust, but for South Africa,” says Bertish.
“We have an opportunity to put our country on the map and show the world how sailing can change lives. More importantly, we want to help change the face of sailing worldwide, making it a sport that welcomes, inspires, and empowers young people from every background.
“To be recognised alongside such incredible international organisations is already a huge achievement. But to win would send an even more powerful message: that a small South African organisation with a big dream can make a real difference on the world stage.”
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How South Africans can rally behind the campaign
The final winner will be decided through a balanced scoring model, with an expert judging panel accounting for 50 per cent of the final result and the public vote making up the remaining 50 per cent. This equal split means that everyday South Africans hold immense power to swing the vote and help the local trust cross the finish line in first place.
With public voting officially closing at 14h00 South African Standard Time (SAST) on Monday, 2 November 2026, the Trust is making an urgent call to action for citizens across the country to cast their votes and share the campaign across their personal and professional networks.
The final award winner will be officially announced at the World Sailing Awards ceremony held in Qingdao, China, on Wednesday, 18 November 2026.
To cast your vote for South Africa, visit the official World Sailing Awards 2026 voting portal online, navigate to the 11th Hour Racing Impact Award section, select The Little Optimist Trust (RSA), and submit your entry before the deadline at 14h00 on Monday, 2 November 2026.
Every single submission brings the country one step closer to proving that South African optimism, community spirit, and dedication can inspire the entire world.
Featured image: Supplied
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