Africa-Press – Seychelles. With only one day to go before a group of daring ladies take to the sea in the ‘Around Seychelles in 18 Bays’ project, Press presents four more participants of this much-awaited adventure – Cindy Moka, Danielle Bamboche, Alison Hoareau & Maryse Marie.
Cindy Moka (Research Officer,
University of Seychelles)
“As a researcher with more than 20 years of experience in the field of cultural heritage and as a ‘Fanm Seselwa’, I feel honoured to be part of the organising committee of the first edition of ‘Around Seychelles in 18 Bays’. This event is a testament of the valour of Seychelles women young and old, from all walks of life.
“Without a doubt! Seychellois women are very courageous and hardworking; once they set their mind on something, there is no room for failure. I strongly support all the Seychellois women who work hard everyday and who are not scared to do what society qualifies as ‘louvraz zonm’ – aman’s job.
“As a mother I represent the fulltime mothers and fulltime professionals who work to not only raise their children, but also to ensure the longevity and sustainability of our country, our community and our culture. I also reach out to all Seychellois mothers who are struggling to raise their kids, especially those whose children suffer from any kind of terminal illnesses.
“It is often said that ‘charity starts at home’. But what is the point of keeping it in our closets. Sacrificing our time and energy, seasoned with lots of love can really make a difference in the lives of a person who is in need. In a world of turmoil, division and self-preservation we are spreading a strong message of ‘love, care, fellowship and unity’ to the Seychellois people and the world, who will be watching women of Seychelles sail for charity and promote the protection of the marine environment. Let us all give a helping hand.
“I pray that God blesses all Seychellois women and may His blessings be also upon those of us who are taking up the challenge to sail around 18 of the most beautiful bays of the Seychelles.
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Lady skipper Danielle Bamboche
“Being at sea has always given me that feeling of home away from home.
It is where I feel free and be myself…Coming from a family of seafarers is where my passion began.Since the age of 18 I started working at sea, this was just after I completed my mechanics studies and later transitioned to being a qualified skipper. As a skipper my journey has been very challenging especially being a woman. But with continuous guidance, patience and trusting in God everything is possible..
“Sailing around the 18 Bays will be a dream come true surrounded by strong women.This charity event is a sign of love, a sign of hope, to help children in need, to make everyone aware of the force we have when we all work together for a better tomorrow and I am so happy to be part of it to make that change. So everyone out there keep trusting in yourself and believe you can fulfill whatever goals you set your mind to.”
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Alison Hoareau (Environment Health and
Safety Officer at the Indian Ocean Tuna LTD)
“While growing up, I was introduced to water sports such as swimming and sailing, and from then on, I developed a passion for the environment in which I, later on, pursued my studies at the Seychelles Maritime Academy and the University of Seychelles.
“During my journey as a young female sailor it was very hard as most times I found myself battling a position among the boys. However, I won numerous notable awards and trophies at both local and international levels including, the best female sailor senior and junior, silver medals in IOIG, and regional championship. I qualified for the Youth World Championships among the top 5 ladies in the African region.
“My purpose in joining the ‘Around Seychelles in 18 Bays’ is that I am a young person who is passionate about environmental protection and conservation and sports. Also with my expertise in sailing and navigating skills, I will be one of the female crew onboard that day.”
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Yacht skipper Maryse Marie
“As the first female yacht skipper who has been working in this field for the last 13 years, it is an honour for me to participate in the event ‘Around Seychelles in 18 Bays’ as a crew. This will allow me to share my experience and at the same time sail for a good cause, i.e. raising funds for a charity – Liam’s Rainbow Foundation. In addition, this event will comprise a first all-female crew sailing in the Seychelles waters in such setting where I feel would be a good achievement and acknowledgement aimed at motivating more young women in joining a marine related career which at the moment is more male dominated.
“Finally, it is a wonderful idea to combine all the elements of this event which will help promote and protect our beautiful Seychelles.”
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