(c) Ed Gifford photography
The National Sailing Academy (NSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jules Mitchell as a board director.
Jules Mitchell, a member of the Academy's very first cohort, began his sailing journey at a trial program hosted in Jolly Harbour, where he was introduced to sailing by current water sports manager Sylvester Thomas. He then continued his learn to sail journey at the Academy's original location at Antigua Yacht Club with Chief instructor Karl James.
In 2015, Jules participated in the inaugural World Sailing Emerging Nations Coaching program, which was followed by the RYA Dinghy Instructor program. He then began his career in the yachting industry as an instructor at the NSA, where he taught students how to sail and was involved in the Academy's inclusive programs for differently-abled individuals.
Jules has managed various yacht projects on a professional level, including a noteworthy refit last year, and has seen success in international competitions. Through 2025 this has included a first-overall finish in the Nelson's Cup and the BVI Spring Regatta on Warthog the boat he now manages. This year he was also part of a TP52 Summer Storm crew who won first overall at the New York Yacht Club Annual Regatta and was part of the Django crew, a Wally Rocket 51, as part of the most competitive international regatta this year, the Admirals Cup, held in Cowes, United Kingdom.
In addition to his racing keelboat accomplishments, he is the reigning Antigua Laser Open champion and has now been appointed to the Board of the National Sailing Academy as its first past student board member, marking a significant milestone in shaping the Academy's future.
Expressing his excitement, Jules stated, "I am absolutely delighted. Representing Antigua overseas in all these prestigious events this year has been an incredible experience, and I look forward to giving back to my Alma Mater. I hope to help shape the futures of other Antiguans in the yachting industry."
Jules joins esteemed board members, including founder and president Elizabeth Jordan, Bob Bailey, Xabier Ross, Peter Anthony, Paul Jackson, and Pep Perry.
Elizabeth Jordan remarked, "Jules's appointment is a highlight for the school. His journey embodies our mission to inspire Antiguans towards careers in the industry, and we are excited to see how he will help shape our strategy for the future."
The NSA's mission is to change the lives of children and differently-abled children and adults in Antigua by introducing them to sailing with the goal of inspiring them to pursue careers in the yachting industry. Lessons are offered free as part of the National Curriculum to government schools and for differently-abled students.
Since its inception over 15 years ago, the Academy has successfully educated more than 3,500 students.
