An auction organized at the initiative of Benjamin Mondou managed to gather 20,000 euros to support Nathan Mesiano’s sporting project. At 19, the young azure sailor is preparing for the 2027 Mini Transat. A sporting and personal challenge, supported by artists, athletes, and several local communities.
The mobilization was successful. The charitable auction organized in favor of Nathan Mesiano raised 19,600 euros. An additional 400 euros were donated by a donor at the end of the sale, bringing the final amount to 20,000 euros.
The evening was open to the public. Twenty-five lots were offered for sale. They were donated by artists like César Malfi, photographer Charles Berbert, and also athletes such as Tadej Pogacar, Dante, and personalities involved in the event. The initiative was spearheaded by Benjamin Mondou, president of Century 21 Lafage. He is committed to this project as a Nice patron in sports and culture.
The goal of the auction was clear. The funds are to contribute to the financing of “Satanas.” This is the boat chosen by Nathan Mesiano to compete in the 2027 Mini Transat. The money will also support his entire sports preparation. The total estimated budget to complete this project is 120,000 euros.
At the end of the sale, Nathan Mesiano expressed his gratitude for the results achieved: “I am super happy with this sale, honestly we reached almost 20,000 euros. I saw that some people scanned the QR code, so it’s great, we have half of the boat, plus the money I had already raised before thanks to my donation pool, I will be able to buy my boat tomorrow, I can write the check. I’m so happy with all the artists present, the enthusiasm, and the people who were in the room, frankly it’s great.”
A personal project turned collective
The mayor of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Roger Roux, was present during the evening. He emphasized the human dimension of the project and the collective dynamic accompanying it. “Let’s say, the project, I think it inspires a number of seasoned athletes, however, what inspires me is the support we can all provide, each at our respective level, and it starts with this auction tonight. More than Berlugan, Nathan is like a member of my family, as I saw him, as the saying goes, born, and I saw him grow, evolve.”
He also reflected on the accident that marked Nathan’s journey: “when, unfortunately, this life’s accident struck him, of course, I was part of this link forming this solidarity chain, which I am, so, to say that we are proud to be part of this chain, of course, but we are especially very happy to all come together around Nathan, to finally allow him to fulfill his dream.“
The mayor of Beaulieu-sur-Mer took the opportunity to announce forthcoming institutional support. A resolution will be proposed to the city council to provide financial aid for the project. Other municipalities are also expected to join the effort. Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Èze were mentioned.
A sporting challenge and a life trajectory
Nathan Mesiano is 19 years old. He became disabled following a suicide attempt at Nice Ville station. Since then, he has been preparing to take on a rare sporting challenge after a long rehabilitation period. Participating in the Mini Transat 2027, a solo Atlantic crossing without assistance. This project is part of personal reconstruction. It has also become a life trajectory. Nathan moves forward with strong conviction and increasing support from private partners, communities, and citizens.
Sailing entered his life early. His first spark came in 2012. “I discovered sailing by watching the Vendée Globe in 2012, and I said this is what I want to do. I joined a sailing club, Volée sur Mer, and started sailing.”
Since then, he sails regularly. He has chosen to progress with able-bodied sailors, without highlighting his disability. “I sail with the able-bodied, then maybe in the race I’ll be with other disabled people, but for now I don’t know any.”
For 2027, his goal is clear: to qualify for the Mini Transat. The boat will bear a name already filled with history. Satanas. An identity Nathan Mesiano wishes to keep as a symbol of his journey.
For reference, an online participatory donation fund is also available for contributions to finance Nathan’s overall project.
