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Project details

In a constantly changing society, marked by growing challenges and uncertainties, building oneself as a young person is a real obstacle course. Dropping out of school, family or social breakdown, loss of bearings and the search for meaning are all challenges that mark their daily lives. Finding one's place and lasting well-being therefore becomes a major challenge for many. Although many state and associative structures reach out to these young people, their difficulties often remain on the fringes of social and media debate. It is in this context that I decided to embark on the realization of my dream: participating in a solo ocean race. This project cannot be dissociated from my values, those of a future skipper, but also those of a trained social worker, committed to young people who have fallen out of their comfort zone.

Having myself gone through periods of rupture, isolation and loss of bearings, I think I can understand these situations. At a time when non-linear paths are little recognized, it is not uncommon when you find yourself on the margins to feel alone and misunderstood. It was only later that I discovered that places of listening and support, offering different approaches, existed. My personal experience led me to a career in social work and helped me find my balance, largely thanks to my passion for competitive sailing.

Today, I want to give meaning to this dual vocation by highlighting these issues, by creating a bridge between my professional skills and my passion. In a world where the sea symbolizes both freedom and challenges, my goal is to make this maritime adventure a project that carries messages of hope and resilience for young people in difficulty.

Navigate to carry a message

To make this ambition a reality, I would like to partner with two Geneva associations, committed to supporting young people who have fallen out of school. The goal is to proudly represent the colors of these associations for two years, offering them unique visibility on an emblematic race: the Mini Transat, which starts every odd-numbered year.

Highlighting the work of these associations and the challenges faced by the young people they support is a valuable opportunity. However, we want to go beyond visibility by using this project as a mediation tool through sailing for young people who would find it interesting. Ocean racing is a complete sport that offers multiple approaches: working on the weather, physical and mental preparation, nutrition, and of course, learning to sail. The possibilities for workshops and sharing with young people will be adapted to their needs and desires, thus creating enriching and formative experiences.

These issues are not limited to the Geneva region. It is therefore relevant for associations to increase their visibility on the Atlantic circuit, while making a point of being present on Lake Geneva. What better way to do this than to show up on the starting line of the legendary Bol d'Or with a boat sporting the association's colours and a crew made up of young people from the association?

So get on board!

By combining the passion for ocean racing with a strong social commitment, this project is not limited to a sporting challenge, but becomes a lever to inspire and support young people in difficulty. Through partnerships with Scène Active and Pacifique, the aim is to create a dynamic where each mile traveled at sea represents a step forward towards the inclusion and personal development of these young people.

Your support can transform this project into an adventure that is both human and supportive. By becoming a partner, you will help to highlight local initiatives that work every day to offer prospects to young people who have fallen behind. Together, we can ensure that this race is much more than just a crossing, but a journey that brings meaning and hope.

Join us in this adventure and become a key player in this project that combines performance, solidarity, and commitment to youth. Help us carry the colors of these associations on the waves and offer these young people a unique opportunity to discover the sea as a space for surpassing oneself and rebuilding.

Sailing in solidarity

A support project for

young people in rupture

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© 2025 Aurélien Gard

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