Members of our programmes, past and present, are invited to join a flotilla in memory of Eli Sweeting on Saturday 2nd August at 10am to celebrate the life and share memories of Eli.
A flotilla in memory of our friend Eli
When: Saturday 2nd August, 10am
A small trip on Bristol Harbour to share memories of Eli. From Baltic Wharf to the Mshed where we will gather in a circle and throw, if you wish, some flowers into the water. MV Pyronaught will kindly do a water display. Please bring your own flowers that are either real flowers or biodegradable.
Please get in touch with Young Bristol if you would like to join us, our boats will be available for use.
A message from Young Bristol's Outdoor Activity Team
Eli joined Young Bristol through our NCS programme. He had an incredible energy with other participants and staff radiated towards him - he was always eager to learn more. It was therefore a delight, when on return from a residential in the Lake District in 2016, that he decided he wanted to join the Instructor Training Scheme (now the Outdoor Employment Programme) and by spring 2017 he started volunteering on our NCS programme. In May 2017, Eli was part of the annual Canoe Test, kayaking 100 miles along the River Wye. As part of this opportunity, he was interviewed as part of a series for BBC Two, showcasing the 100 mile challenge and sharing with the presenter the importance of getting outdoors.
Eli became an avid member of the programme and alongside his training with City of Bristol College, quickly completed qualifications in Paddlesports, Powerboating and High Ropes. He was employed by Young Bristol and became a reliable Instructor, always brimming with enthusiasm to bring the joy of outdoor activities to the young people he taught.
Eli followed his dreams and went to University where he gained his Outdoor Leadership Degree. Following this, he went on to become a member of the Harbour Master’s team, and we would regularly meet out on the water, pulling up alongside our kayaks for a catch-up and to find out what adventures he had been on! Eli had an enthusiasm and hunger to learn and develop himself through training and adventure. From time to time, he would stop by our Activities Centre at Pooles Wharf and we would hear his distinctive voice calling up the stairs. He would pop in for a catch-up or volunteer on a session, chatting equally to new trainees, participants and familiar faces, telling of his experiences he gained from Young Bristol. Eli was always grounded and humble about his knowledge, skills and ability, but it was a pleasure to see how he was developing into a strong and inspirational leader and a great outdoorsman.
Eli settled in New Zealand; being in the heart of adventure, inspiration and outdoor activities suited him well. Earlier this year, Eli climbed Mitre Peak in Milford Sound but did not return. After extensive efforts from Mountain Rescue, friends, family, acquaintances and many more, he was never found. Our Thoughts and Prayers are with Eli’s family and friends at this time.
Eli will always be a huge part of Young Bristol. He will live on in all those who had the good fortune to meet him, and be inspired by his incredible enthusiasm and dedication to experience new adventures.
