Now a tradition, members of the resident Italian Community come together each year to donate their time and efforts at the International Culture, Wine and Food Festival (ICWFF). The 26th festival, held this past October at Fort Charlotte was a delight to attendees. All proceeds from the Italy booth, each year are donated to a worthy cause. This year, the team led by The Honorary Consul General from Italy, Dr. Alberto Suighi, selected The Eleuthera Sailing Academy in Savannah Sound.

As an organization, the Eleuthera Sailing Academy supports the Bahamian National sport of sailing by teaching those in the community interested in learning to sail. The program currently has over 35 kids involved, with the most advanced training to represent The Bahamas both nationally and internationally. Outside of sailing, the program also teaches kitesurfing, windsurfing and more promoting the love of the ocean and natural environment.

Impressed by the efforts of the Sailing Academy program, the enthusiasm and guidance of Mrs. Laura Paine and the positive impact of the sport for the youths of Eleuthera, the Italian Community pledged to support by sponsoring an additional ten local children to join the program in 2024. During a special presentation at the Academy in Savannah Sound, Eleuthera, Dr. Suighi met with several young sailors and their coach.

Head Coach, Martin Marinque thanks the Italian community for their support as the academy is in constant need of materials for repairs and maintenance as well as equipment like sails and boat parts. Martin expressed “Italy is a great example of a country where sports play a huge role in the youth, and is right now the biggest country in youth sailing! We are confident that the community understands the benefits that sailing can bring to the youth of Eleuthera.”