IMO Goodwill Ambassador George Hoyt has dedicated his life to shaping the maritime industry and empowering the future generation of maritime professionals. Raised in modest circumstances, Hoyt understands the challenges faced by those with limited resources. Growing up, his mother’s experience in an orphanage instilled in him a deep empathy for orphaned children and a drive to create a better future for them. Despite financial constraints, he achieved success in building numerous ventures, dedicating himself to improving the lives of others.

LIGHT BEYOND A DARK PATH
Driven by his personal connection, Hoyt has developed a strong affinity for orphaned children and a deep commitment to their well-being. He supports institutions such as Pangarap Foundation in Pasay City and Casa Miani Orphanage in Bicol, along with other organizations worldwide. Believing that every child deserves love, care, and support, he provides multifaceted assistance to these orphanages, striving to offer opportunities and a sense of belonging to the unfortunate children. Hoyt’s goal is to ensure that there is a guiding light for those who have fallen into the cracks of society.

“We have a profound opportunity to make a positive impact on those who have fallen through life’s cracks. By ensuring that a beacon of hope awaits them at the culmination of their darkest moments, we can extend a helping hand and guide them towards a brighter future,” shares Hoyt.

STRONG FOUNDATIONS
Hoyt firmly believes in the power of education to transform lives. With this belief, he founded the information networks Newslink and Seafarers Quiz. As a former director of Seagull, Hoyt recognized the importance of disseminating relevant information to the maritime community. These platforms bridge information gaps and provide seafarers with valuable insights, news, and educational resources.

An advocate for professional development and learning, Hoyt joined the Maritime Awareness Program Society (MAPS) – an international maritime charity that improves the lives of seafarers and their families through a range of services, resources, and strategies.

He also became a fellow of the Nautical Institute, where he shares his expertise and insights on upholding excellence and professionalism in the maritime field. Additionally, he serves as an advisor to the Board of GlobalMET, a Hong Kong-based association conducting activities and research in maritime training and education.

ADOPT A SHIP
With his life’s work and dedication, Mr. Hoyt became the Nautical Institute’s IMO Goodwill Maritime Ambassador. His appointment as an IMO Ambassador solidified his position as a respected advocate for the global maritime industry. This role allowed him to promote seafarers’ welfare and raise awareness of the industry’s significance on a global scale.

According to Hoyt, “perception can be a powerful catalyst in expanding possibilities. At times, more doors open if people see you as an ambassador rather than a philanthropist.”

Hoyt sold Newslink to support numerous orphanages and fund his advocacies. Among these endeavors is the esteemed Adopt a Ship International – a maritime awareness program aiming to foster appreciation for the everyday contribution of seafaring to communities worldwide.

Sharing his passion for the maritime world, particularly with children embarking on their educational and career pathways, Hoyt became the global coordinator of Adopt A Ship. After launching in Cyprus, the Adopt A Ship program found a new home in the Philippines under his leadership and in partnership with the Gregorio Oca Leadership and Development Foundation. The program facilitates a 10 to 12-week information exchange between grade-schoolers at school and ship officers onboard, facilitated by Social Studies teachers.

According to one of the principals involved in the Adopt A Ship program, RCES School Head Emlyn Gazzingan, “the program’s alignment with the DepEd curriculum is highly beneficial for students, fostering their understanding of geography, history, culture, and traditions.”

“The integration of subject lessons with insights derived from the lives of seafarers has sparked a multitude of relevant topics. These subjects had served to enhance the students’ educational experience by providing connections between theoretical concepts and real-world applications,” she continues.

The program initially faced challenges due to the unforeseen impact of the pandemic in 2019. After a three-year hiatus, it was revived in 2022 and continues to make significant strides in nurturing maritime awareness among Filipino children. In 2023, the program has extended its reach to the Southern Tagalog Region, encompassing the addition of two elementary schools in Laguna.

PRIORITIZING EDUCATION
Hoyt’s mission if to offer guidance and support to individuals facing challenges, including orphaned children, those deprived of education, and victims of difficult circumstances. With his philanthropic efforts in various charities, orphanages, and the Adopt A Ship program, Hoyt aims to empower children and create a brighter future by providing educational opportunities and enhancing their learning experiences, leading to promising careers in the maritime profession. He recognizes that each child’s situation is unique, emphasizing the importance of tailoring support to their specific needs.

“Prioritizing education as a means to empower children and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills will ensure a brighter future for them,” the goodwill ambassador imparts.

Hoyt’s remarkable journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a passionate advocate for maritime education and a benefactor for orphanages is a testament to his compassion, commitment, and the transformative power of one person’s actions. Although not a seafarer himself, his extensive involvement in various maritime organizations and initiatives has solidified his commitment to promoting maritime awareness and education, leaving an indelible mark on our industry and the future generation of professionals – the students.

“Witnessing the radiant smiles and boundless energy of these young souls evokes an unexplainable feeling that profoundly touches my heart.”

Relating to the timeless song “The Greatest Love of All,” Hoyt sums up the core of Adopt A Ship and all his efforts for the challenged children in the communities he supports.

“I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty that they possess inside, give them a sense of pride to make it easier, let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be’ – this song perfectly captures the essence of Adopt a Ship’s commitment to providing educational awareness while bridging children to the maritime world.”

ABOUT ADOPT A SHIP
Adopt A Ship InterNational is a non-profit effort to help create, manage and coordinate “Adopt A Ship” and ”Adopt A Ship Orphanages and Shelters” (AaSOS) programs in as many countries as possible.

The Adopt A Ship Program was initiated by the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, (CSC), and the Cyprus Maritime Environmental Protection Association, (CYMEPA), in 2006 to bring together the Elementary Schools and Seafarers on board ships operated by CSC Members.

The program expanded into the Philippines, Poland, India and Greece in 2017. More than 35,000 Children participated globally in 2019 before the pandemic.

As physical classes resumed in the Philippines in 2022, Adopt A Ship resumed in Manila and expanded to the province of Laguna.

IN PHOTO: The Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. being presented with a miniature ship crafted by Adopt A Ship students by Adopt A Ship International Coordinator and IMO Goodwill Ambassador George Hoyt (middle) along with Döhle Schiffarts KG Managing Director Dr. Gaby Bornheim in June 2023.