Bathroom Accessories
Basins
Baths
Cabinets
Mirrors
Showers
Bathroom Taps
Toilets & Bidets
Wall Tiles
Floor Tiles
Feature Tiles
Taps
Kitchen Sinks
Floor Tiles
Mosaic Tiles
Outdoor Tiles
Swimming Pool Coping
Natural Stone Cladding
Swimming Pool Mosaic Tiles
Every vulnerable child touched by the inspirational programmes of The Little Optimist Trust is empowered to navigate a sea of challenges and keep hope afloat. Italtile is proud to be on board.
The Trust, under the captaincy of Greg Bertish, has garnered well-deserved accolades for the extraordinary work it does to uplift at-risk youth through the lessons learnt at the tiller of the little boats. However, the organisation’s “keeping hope afloat” motto also refers to the spirit of their outreach work on land. 2025 got off to a cracking start and several new adventures unfurled. As proud supporters of Greg Bertish and his extraordinary crew members, Italtile is thrilled to share the latest tales of youth transformation.
Going for Gold.
This February, something truly remarkable unfolded. The Ocean Pledge, Roxy Davis Foundation, and The Little Optimist Sailing Academy joined forces to empower over ten young adults from across Cape Town. Many arrived as strangers, some hesitant to even say hello, yet they left with unbreakable bonds, newfound confidence, and stories of resilience that will inspire generations to come.
From overcoming life-threatening conditions to navigating the challenges of disabilities and life-changing accidents, these young adults embraced the ocean as both a teacher and a healer. They learned to sail, explored the deep connections between humanity and the sea, and discovered the power of their own voices.
With unwavering support, transpotation provided for all, safe spaces to share, and lessons in ocean conservation, they found the courage to face one of their greatest fears: public speaking. On March 18th, at their graduation ceremony, they stood before a crowd, no longer just participants, but storytellers, leaders, and ocean guardians.
This was more than a programme. It was a transformation. A journey of growth, resilience, and empowerment that will ripple far beyond the shores where it all began.
Broadening Horizons with 9 Miles.
On 3 March, a Train the Trainer initiative was kickstarted with The 9 Miles Project at The Little Optimist Sailing Academy. The initiative explored ways to use sailing as a means to teach life lessons and promote growth mindset thinking and living. 9 Miles is the first pilot site for Sailing Therapy.
“Plan for the best, prepare for the worst.”
The 9 Miles team learned how to capsize, right and secure, and re-sail their Little Optimist boats. This is a critical skill that all our instructors must learn. On the last day of onsite training for the 9 Miles Project Team at The Little Optimist Sailing Therapy Academy, every crew member left with certificates and medals, feeling totally inspired, empowered, and optimistic... just like the thousands of marginalised children, they will go on to become mentors, through positive mental health interventions. Over the next few months they will train with our team and run #sailingthrulife programmes at their home base in Strandfontein tidal pool.
Huge thanks to The Little Partners partners who have made this journey and impact possible.
@iocmedia #advancingolympism365 @laguilde @sportencommun_ @sportimpact_ @laureussport @laureus_sa @laureus.sport.for.good @twooceansmarine @italtilesa #southernwindshipyard @ullmansails_southafrica @iliostravel @lauriumcapitalinvestment @thecrazystoresa @movingtactics @spearreitlimited @vandawaterfront @shonaquip_social_enterprise @boocksignsandgraphics @alohaaward @intlsurftherapyorg @southafricansailing @bootduesseldorf @metstrade
The Little Optimist visits Visa Nova Primary School.
The Little Optimist Trust was thrilled to attend the grand opening of Vista Nova Primary School’s brand-new inclusive playground on Wednesday, 26 March. Designed to ensure that every learner—regardless of ability—can play, explore, and connect, this incredible space features wheelchair-friendly equipment and sensory play areas. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces as they experienced the playground for the first time was truly heartwarming. As champions of hope and resilience, we celebrate this milestone in creating a more inclusive world where every child can thrive.
At the link below, explore more about how these heroic folk and their brave little boats harness their sense of purpose to help vulnerable young people navigate a sea of challenges, find the confidence to unfurl their sails, and ride the waves of optimism: https://thelittleoptimist.org/
Validate your login