Aspiring chef, Kristina Kamatoy, 18, has been selected as the second beneficiary of a maritime education scholarship co-funded by Sailors’ Society and Garrets International, and given by Homer Foundation.
Kamatoy, from Quezon in The Philippines, received the scholarship to train at the Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (MIHCA) in Manila. The Sailors’ Society – Homer Foundation Scholarship enables Filipino students from underprivileged backgrounds to pursue culinary careers in the shipping industry.
Kristina said: “This scholarship will serve as a stepping stone for me to become a successful chef on board a ship, see the world and secure a stable job that will help me extend my hand for my family. I’m so grateful to Garrets International and Sailors’ Society for this opportunity.”
Garrets International, supplier and store management partner to the global shipping community, and Sailors’ Society will provide funding to support Kristina’s living costs for the duration of the one-year course.
The Philippines has one of the largest rich-poor divides in South East Asia. MIHCA courses give young people an opportunity to earn recognized training credentials and start a seafaring career.
Students must demonstrate a desire to work at sea for three years following completion of the course. The training also prepares students to work on land in the hospitality industry when their seafaring careers are over.
Sailors’ Society, which is celebrating 200 years as a maritime charity supporting seafarers and their families, offers a variety of scholarships and grants under its nautical education program.