Generali has entered into a sponsorship agreement with Sailability Hong Kong, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to creating sailing opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
The partnership, announced in conjunction with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Dec. 3, is part of Generali’s focus on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within its organisation and the communities it serves.
Sailability Hong Kong, part of a global network of similar initiatives, was established in 2009 to reduce barriers to sailing participation caused by financial, physical, or mental limitations. Its programs range from introductory sailing experiences to competitive events at local and international levels.
Generali’s sponsorship will see the company’s branding featured on the “MoHan” vessel, used in Sailability’s programs.
Speaking about the initiative, Rob Leonardi, Generali’s Asia regional officer, highlighted the company’s commitment to inclusion.
“While we are fully committed to nurturing DEI across our teams, we’re equally enthusiastic about doing our part as a responsible corporate citizen to promote and encourage it in our communities,” he said.
Giuseppe Randazzo, head of communications and public affairs for Asia, said that the collaboration aligns with Generali’s mission to support organisations driving social progress.
“Giving sailing opportunities to disabled persons is both an affirmation of the power of sport to make progress towards inclusion and a way to communicate that anything is possible when we work together. We’re delighted to be involved and look forward to smooth sailing towards the impact we aim to make,” he said.
Kay Rawbone, founder and director of Sailability Hong Kong, expressed appreciation for Generali’s sponsorship, describing it as essential to the organisation’s ability to expand access to sailing.
“With Generali’s sponsorship our programs will continue to be supported as we introduce and provide additional opportunities for sailing within the community while also highlighting the abilities of our sailors with various life challenges,” she said.
Rawbone said the partnership would enable the nonprofit to reach more participants and enhance its programs, including “big boat sailing” experiences and competitive training.
The MoHan vessel, acquired in 2022 with support from the Li Ka Shing Foundation and Solaris Yachts Asia, represents a significant step forward for Sailability Hong Kong, according to Rawbone. The new sponsorship will further the organisation’s goal of making sailing accessible to a wider audience, including individuals with diverse life challenges.
Generali said it has positioned DEI as a cornerstone of its business strategy, emphasising an inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives. Its efforts extend to community engagement through initiatives aimed at supporting marginalised groups and advancing social inclusion.
The collaboration with Sailability Hong Kong is part of Generali’s broader use of sport as a vehicle for fostering inclusion. The insurer also sponsors Barcolana, recognised as the world’s largest sailing race, and supports related projects such as the “Women in Sailing by Generali” initiative.
