Empowering the next generation: Green Award at PROJECT CONNECT’s 10-Year Anniversary
Green Award team at the PROJECT CONNECT 10-Year Anniversary Celebration (l-r: Maria Damigou; Irene Notias; Jan Fransen). © PROJECT CONNECT, 2025.
Piraeus, 25 June 2025 – Green Award took part in the 10-Year Anniversary celebration of PROJECT CONNECT, held at the Yacht Club of Greece. The event brought together key figures from the shipping industry, education, government, and diplomacy to honor a decade of dedicated work towards bridging the gap between life at sea and onshore careers, empowering the next generation of maritime professionals.
Executive Director of Green Award, Jan Fransen, attended the ceremony and expressed his support for PROJECT CONNECT’s mission and its flagship educational programme, “Adopt a Ship”:
The maritime industry needs inspired and informed youth to ensure its long-term sustainability. Initiatives like ‘Adopt a Ship’ not only bring the world of shipping into classrooms but also foster a sense of connection and purpose among the younger generation.
Established in 2015, PROJECT CONNECT is a Greek non-profit initiative that promotes holistic maritime education and preparation for working in the shipping industry through work-study programmes, office visits, mentorships, and short-sea travel experiences. Over the past decade, it has functioned as a bridge between students and the shipping industry, creating meaningful opportunities for young professionals.
Young participants presenting during the event. © PROJECT CONNECT, 2025.
One of its most impactful initiatives is the “Adopt a Ship” programme, introduced in 2018 into Greek primary, junior high, and vocational schools. The project allows students to adopt a vessel for an academic year and engage in weekly communication with the crew, tracking voyages and learning about life at sea. The programme aims to raise awareness of the shipping industry’s importance and encourage students to consider maritime careers.
Green Award recognizes the long-term value of such initiatives and hopes to see more of them appear worldwide. Promoting maritime culture and education is essential to securing a sustainable, skilled, and resilient shipping sector globally.
To learn more, visit the PROJECT CONNECT website.