Building A Future Foundation

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The Building a future foundation: learning through real work training.

At Building A Future Foundation (BAFF), education doesn’t stop at the classroom door. To help students better understand the professional world and prepare for their future careers, each newly recruited batch participates in dedicated industry visits to expose them to real working environments and professional practices. As part of this experience, students visit key industrial sites such as the water treatment plant in Baddegama and Ocean Voyager International. These visits allow students to discover different industries, better understand how professional environments operate, and gain first-hand exposure to workplace expectations and daily operations. Through guided site visits, students can observe professional workflows, learn how teams collaborate, and see how technical knowledge is applied in real-life situations. At the water treatment plant, students gain insight into essential infrastructure and operational systems. In parallel, their day-to-day classes and on-the-job training within the different branches of SLYG give them the opportunity to explore a wide range of careers in the marine industry, including through Ocean Voyager and HAVN. These experiences play an important role in helping students connect their training to future career opportunities. By stepping into real workplaces, they can better imagine themselves in professional roles, build confidence, and develop a clearer understanding of the standards, responsibilities, and opportunities that await them after their training. At BAFF, we believe that practical exposure is an essential part of learning. By introducing students to industrial environments early in their journey, we aim to help them build not only technical knowledge but also confidence, motivation, and a stronger vision for their future.

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Spontaneous class at the foundation: creating workplace awareness through safety training.

Safety is a fundamental part of professional training at Building A Future Foundation (BAFF). As students prepare to enter technical and industrial careers, learning how to work safely and responsibly is considered just as important as developing practical skills. To support this, BAFF conducts dedicated safety awareness and implementation programs to create a strong culture of workplace safety from the start of each student’s journey.Through these programs, students are introduced to both personal safety and industrial safety practices through a combination of theoretical lessons and practical sessions. The objective is not only to teach safety procedures but also to help students understand the importance of responsibility, prevention, and awareness in professional environments. During the program, students learn how workplace accidents can occur, the common risks found in industrial settings, and the actions that can help prevent incidents before they happen. They are guided through practical situations to better understand how to react in real-life scenarios and what steps to follow if an accident occurs. The training also covers important topics such as the use and operation of fire extinguishers, emergency response procedures, and basic first-aid methods. By combining practical demonstrations with hands-on learning, students gain essential knowledge to help protect themselves and others in the workplace. At BAFF, safety education is viewed as an essential life skill that extends beyond the classroom and workshop. By equipping students with strong safety awareness and practical emergency knowledge, the foundation helps them feel more confident, responsible, and ready to face workplace situations safely.

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Right after the last graduation ceremony, BAFF meets new candidates for upcoming training program interviews !

At Building A Future Foundation (BAFF), every new journey begins with understanding the aspirations, potential, and goals of future students. Following the graduation of our Multi-Skill Technician batch, the foundation staff had the opportunity to meet and interview 15 new candidates who may soon join one of our training programs. During the interview process, students were invited to share more about their personal profiles, educational backgrounds, and future ambitions. These conversations help us better understand each individual’s interests, strengths, and career goals, while also ensuring that they are guided toward the program that best matches their potential and aspirations. In addition to getting to know the candidates, the sessions also served as an introduction to BAFF and the opportunities available through the foundation. Students received information about the training center, the different courses offered, and the practical skills they can develop throughout their learning journey. Career guidance was also provided to help them better understand possible career paths and future opportunities linked to the training. To ensure students and their families have a clear understanding of what BAFF offers, candidates were informed about the benefits and facilities available after enrolling in the programs, as well as the employment opportunities that may become available after successfully completing their training. At BAFF, recruitment is more than just a selection process, it is the beginning of building a future. By supporting students from the very first step, we aim to help them make informed decisions and start their journey with confidence, motivation, and a clear vision for their future. If you feel like taking part to the baff program or know somebody that could be interested, contact us !

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A new batch of BAFF students graduated in early May 2026, a moment to look back and feel proud of our youth.

Recently, we marked the completion of a training program jointly conducted by the Building A Future Foundation (BAFF) and the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA). This group consisted of 15 students trained under the Multi-Skill Technician program. Over the course of 1.5 years, students develop practical skills across multiple technical fields. By the end of the program, they are able to perform basic welding, operate lathes and milling machines for metal cutting, carry out single-phase and three-phase electrical wiring, repair air-conditioning units, complete plumbing work, masonry, and basic carpentry. The goal is to train highly versatile young professionals with practical, hands-on abilities across several industries. Our organization was the first to introduce this Multi-Skill Technician program in Sri Lanka, under the leadership of Dr. Tissa Jinasena. Since its introduction, we have trained nearly 1,000 students through this initiative. Today, many of these graduates hold strong positions in the professional fields they chose to pursue. Because students graduate with skills applicable to many sectors, employment opportunities are often available to them immediately after completing the training. The program is offered completely free of charge. Students receive breakfast each morning and a daily allowance. Until recently, graduates of the Multi Skill program received a certification from NAITA under the title “Multi Skill Craftsman.” However, this cohort received an upgraded qualification titled “Multi-Skill Technician.” The certification is recognized as NVQ Level 4, representing a strong professional qualification and an important milestone for students entering the workforce. We are proud to have continued this initiative for approximately fifteen years. The financial support that makes this possible is generously provided by our founder, Pierre Pringiers. His wife, a talented artist, contributes by selling her artwork at exhibitions in Singapore, with the proceeds helping fund the program. Although Belgian, Pierre has dedicated significant efforts toward supporting Sri Lanka and continues to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.

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Building Futures Beyond Technical Skills: Personal Development at BAFF. 

At the Building A Future Foundation (BAFF), education goes far beyond technical training. While students develop practical and professional expertise through hands-on learning, personal growth remains an equally important part of their journey. Through a range of personal development programs, BAFF aims to help students not only build careers but also build confidence, ambition, and a stronger sense of direction for their future. Throughout their training, students participate in multiple personal development sessions designed to equip them with valuable life skills. These programs focus on leadership, decision-making, self-awareness, communication, and personal responsibility. More importantly, they encourage students to believe in themselves, recognize their potential, and gain the confidence needed to shape the future they want. After the recruitment of each student batch, BAFF provides both internal and external personal development programs to support this growth journey. Internally, students participate in sessions led by Mr. Geeth, manager at SEATEK and teacher at BAFF , who guides them through key aspects of personal and professional development. During these workshops, students learn how to create a personal vision and mission, better understand their own strengths and capabilities, develop positive attitudes, and improve decision-making skills. These sessions encourage reflection and help students better understand who they are, where they want to go, and how they can work toward their goals. In addition to internal training, students also participate in an external personality development program conducted at the Jinasena Training Institute in Embilipitiya. This intensive three-day program provides students with an opportunity to step outside of their usual environment and further strengthen important personal and interpersonal skills. The program focuses on enhancing leadership abilities, fostering positive attitudes, helping students define goals and objectives, and identifying their personal strengths. For many students, these programs become an important turning point. Beyond technical education, they gain practical tools to navigate challenges, build resilience, and approach opportunities with greater confidence.By combining hands-on vocational training with personal development, BAFF seeks to empower students not only to enter the workforce but to grow into confident individuals capable of creating meaningful and sustainable futures for themselves and their communities. At BAFF, building a future means more than learning a profession, it means learning to believe in what is possible.

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OV40 CARLA I: Gran Canaria’s Premier Catamaran by SLYG

The OV40 CARLA stands out among Gran Canaria’s catamaran fleet, offering premium maritime experiences along the island’s stunning southwestern coastline. Operated by Watersports Luis Molina from Anfi Beach, this catamaran has earned its reputation as one of the Canary Islands’ finest tourist catamarans. The CARLA accommodates up to 35 passengers in comfort and style. Its twin-hull design provides exceptional stability while cruising Gran Canaria’s Atlantic waters. With modern safety equipment, spacious decks, and comfortable seating, the catamaran strikes the perfect balance between intimacy and capacity. Three-and-a-half-hour excursions showcase the best of Gran Canaria’s coast, featuring dramatic sea caves, towering volcanic cliffs, and opportunities to spot dolphins and marine life. The relaxed pace allows passengers to fully appreciate the island’s natural beauty, from geological formations that tell the story of Gran Canaria’s volcanic origins to the crystal-clear Atlantic waters.Luis Molina’s Watersports center represents one of Gran Canaria’s largest marine tourism operations, offering over 20 different water activities. The OV40 classification ensures the CARLA meets Spain’s strict maritime safety standards, providing passengers with confidence in their excursion choice. Operating throughout the year thanks to Gran Canaria’s favorable climate, the CARLA consistently receives praise for its professional crew, stunning coastal views, and luxurious atmosphere. The vessel has become an integral part of the island’s tourism landscape, offering visitors an authentic connection to Gran Canaria’s maritime heritage.For those seeking a premium catamaran experience that combines safety, comfort, and spectacular scenery, the CARLA delivers an unforgettable journey through some of the Atlantic’s most beautiful waters.

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Ocean Voyager International Receives the Presidential Export Award for Boat and Pleasure Craft Building

Some recognitions carry a particular weight. In the final months of 2025, Ocean Voyager International was honoured with the Presidential Export Award for Boat and Pleasure Craft Building, granted by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board. This award, recognising the company’s outstanding export performance during the 24-25 year, places Ocean Voyager among the national references of Sri Lankan boatbuilding on international markets. As we talk about this award, we should mark that this distinction is not the result of a single project or a short-term success. Indeed, this is the second time our brand has been honoured with this award, reflecting years of consistent work, strategic choices and collective commitment across the company. Ocean Voyager International was evaluated on a wide range of criteria, including export turnover, repatriation of export proceeds, net foreign exchange earnings, market and product diversification, value addition, innovation and sustainable export practices. Across these dimensions, the award recognises that the company demonstrated a level of performance that led to this national recognition. The award was officially received during the Presidential Export Awards ceremony in the first week of December 2025 by Saman, our General Manager and whose presence symbolised the leadership and long-term global vision that have shaped the company’s international development over time. Behind the figures and evaluation criteria lies a very concrete reality. Day after day, teams work across design, engineering and production to deliver boats that meet demanding international standards. Our attention to detail, combined with a strong export-oriented mindset, has allowed Ocean Voyager to steadily expand its global footprint while maintaining high levels of reliability, technical excellence and trust with its partners. The selection process itself reflects the importance of the award. Winners are chosen through a comprehensive and transparent evaluation conducted by an eminent panel of judges, chaired by a retired Judge of the Supreme Court. Receiving this distinction therefore carries both symbolic and professional significance within Sri Lanka’s export landscape, and encourages us to continue pursuing our core purpose: contributing to the growth of Sri Lanka and its communities. Indeed, as Ocean Voyager evolves within the wider maritime ecosystem of Sea Leisure Yachting Group (SLYG), alongside industrial, operational and social initiatives, the brand remains directly linked to the group’s social mission and to the work of the BAFF Foundation, which lies at the origin of the entire group. This integrated structure supports sustainable growth while anchoring performance in long-term responsibility, skills development and local impact. For the group as a whole, this award marks an important milestone. It acknowledges the dedication of our teams, the confidence of international clients and partners, and the growing recognition of Sri Lanka as a competitive, reliable and innovative hub for boat manufacturing. More than an award, this recognition reinforces a direction. It strengthens our determination to continue building an international presence from Sri Lanka with substance, to invest locally in skills, innovation and quality, and to contribute actively to the sustainable development of the maritime industry of the island for the years to come.

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VIBE 1: A New Addition to Pattaya’s Day-Cruise Fleet

This December marks an important moment for Ocean Voyager and waters of Thailand with the introduction of VIBE 1, the newest OV 64 now successfully launched and delivered. Purpose-built for high-capacity, high-comfort day operations, VIBE 1 is expected to play a significant role in strengthening Pattaya’s growing marine tourism landscape. Designed for Capacity, Comfort, and Commercial Value Stretching 19.5 metres in length, the OV 64 offers generous deck spaces, a stable platform, and a layout that ensures guests enjoy a smooth and comfortable experience on the water. With the ability to accommodate up to 90 passengers, the OV64 stands out as one of the most commercially advantageous vessels in its category. Higher capacity means operators can welcome more guests per sailing, optimise revenue on peak days, and achieve a stronger return on investment throughout the season, all without compromising on guest comfort or operational efficiency. VIBE 1’s open deck configuration, smooth maneuverability, and well-planned amenities make it suitable for a wide range of charter experiences, from leisure cruises and island-hopping excursions to private events and corporate outings. Its build quality and systems are designed for the demands of frequent day-charter use, offering both reliability and ease of operation. Craftsmanship Backed by Sea Leisure Yachting Group The arrival of VIBE 1 also reflects the broader evolution of the Ocean Voyager brand under its holding company, the Sea Leisure Yachting Group (SLYG). With integrated shipyards and a strong focus on B2B marine solutions, SLYG ensures that the OV64 line continues to be built to high international standards. The combination of robust composites, advanced systems, and manufacturer expertise plays a central role in the vessel’s performance and long-term commercial appeal. As VIBE 1 begins operations in Pattaya this December, charter operators in the region gain access to a vessel that delivers both scale and quality; two critical factors in a tourism market experiencing steady growth. Its arrival is expected to elevate the day-cruise offering in the destination, enabling operators to meet rising demand while maximizing revenue potential. VIBE 1 represents not only a new addition to the waters of Thailand, but also a significant step forward in the continued expansion of Ocean Voyager’s global presence. With strong capacity, proven design, and a focus on operator profitability, the Ocean Voyager 64 is well-positioned to make a lasting impact in Pattaya’s marine tourism sector.

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Pulse 55 Sport, the Newest RIB Delivered to Support Watersport Activities in Negombo

Sea Leisure Yachting Group is proud to announce that the Pulse 55 Sport is now ready to begin operations in Negombo, where it will support the growing activities of the Serendib Watersport Center. This versatile Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) has been fully constructed at our Solar Impulse yard in Kabalana, showcasing the Group’s commitment to quality, innovation and local craftsmanship. Designed for both speed and stability, the Pulse 55 Sport can reach up to 26 knots while maintaining excellent maneuverability in varying sea conditions. With seating for up to 9 passengers, the vessel is ideal for watersport excursions, coastal trips and recreational activities. Its performance oriented profile makes it a reliable choice for commercial operators who require efficiency, comfort and durability. Every aspect of the vessel has been built from A to Z by our in house team, starting from the fiberglass hull to the Orca hypalon air tube, ensuring a robust structure capable of handling intensive daily use. Tailored for the Serendib Watersport Center For this model, the client selected a center console layout, emphasizing the sporty character of the boat while allowing for improved mobility and visibility when navigating or hosting watersport sessions. This configuration not only enhances the identity of the Pulse 55 Sport but also aligns perfectly with the operational needs of the Serendib Watersport Center as they expand their offerings in Negombo. Supporting Local Industry and Coastal Tourism At Sea Leisure Yachting Group, contributing to local development across Sri Lanka remains at the heart of our mission. Each vessel built at our yards supports coastal communities, tourism growth and sustainable enterprise around the island. The Pulse 55 Sport marks another step forward in empowering local operators with reliable, high quality marine solutions. We are proud to support the expansion of the Serendib Watersport Center and look forward to seeing visitors and adventure seekers enjoy this new addition to their fleet.

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SLYG Supports Flood Affected Communities Across Sri Lanka Through Coordinated Rescue Efforts

Colombo, December 2025 Sri Lanka has faced severe flooding over the past week, leaving several communities displaced and in urgent need of assistance. In response to the unfolding crisis, Sea Leisure Yachting Group (SLYG) has mobilized teams, vessels and resources across multiple divisions to support national rescue and relief operations. This month, SLYG teams joined coordinated rescue missions in Kotiakumbura, one of the severely impacted areas. Working alongside the Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Army and other emergency response units, our teams assisted in the safe evacuation of approximately 30 families. These operations extended late into the night, underscoring the dedication and teamwork demonstrated by all personnel involved. Further, SLYG continued its support by delivering essential food items and relief supplies to affected families. Many communities remain inaccessible due to rising water levels, making timely intervention essential. Our teams ensured that immediate assistance was provided to those facing the greatest challenges. Deploying Marine Resources for Rescue Access One of SLYG’s key contributions has been the deployment of Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) manufactured by the Group’s marine engineering division. These vessels, have been operating alongside naval rescue teams to reach areas unreachable by land, transporting stranded families and delivering emergency supplies. Following initial operations in Kotiakumbura, SLYG teams proceeded to Daduru Oya and surrounding regions, where relief efforts continue. Our presence on the ground remains active as water levels fluctuate and new needs emerge. Committed to Community Support As a homegrown company with deep ties to Sri Lanka’s coastal and inland communities, SLYG remains fully committed to supporting national authorities and local rescue units throughout this crisis. Our teams are prepared to continue providing manpower, vessels, logistics and coordination wherever needed.

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