As part of the Sail4Sustainability project, Kargenc Club organised two inspiring national workshops in Turkey to promote sustainability, inclusion, and environmental awareness through sailing.
Both sessions aimed to test the project’s educational materials and demonstrate how sport can foster eco-conscious values among young people.
1st National Workshop – Sakarya (21 April 2025)
Held at Serdivan Culture and Art Center, the first workshop gathered 20 participants from youth organisations, sailing clubs, and educational institutions.
Trainer Berat Ezel introduced the Sail4Sustainability project and the Toolkit for Inclusion and Diversity in Sustainable Sailing developed by consortium partners.
Through interactive discussions, participants explored ways to integrate sustainability and safety into sailing and youth education.
Feedback highlighted the practicality of the Toolkit and the need for locally adapted examples. Participants also emphasized the importance of climate awareness and building an eco-friendly sports culture.
2nd National Workshop – Sapanca Lake (11 October 2025)
The second workshop took place at Sapanca Lake, combining sustainability education with hands-on sailing sessions for young participants aged 18–23.
Facilitated by project manager Esra Erdem, youth leader Begüm Seyhan, and sailing instructor Umut Yalaz, the session included discussions on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), responsible resource use, and practical sailing exercises focused on teamwork, safety, and eco-behaviour on the water.
Participants learned the basics of sailing, reflected on their connection with nature, and expressed strong interest in future activities such as extended eco-sailing camps.
Conclusion
Both workshops clearly demonstrated how sailing can serve as a powerful platform to inspire sustainable thinking and inclusive values among young people.
The feedback gathered from these sessions contributed to improving the Sail4Sustainability Toolkit and strengthening its educational and social impact across Europe.
