MOSSEL BAY NEWS - In a celebration of youth, community and environmental action, several young people from across Mossel Bay gathered at Santos Beach on 7 June for an inspiring marine and environmental awareness event hosted by iOcean Trust.
Held between World Environment Day on 5 June and World Oceans Day on 8 June, the event combined ocean education, water safety, environmental stewardship and youth empowerment.
One of the highlights of the day was the participation of iKayha Youth and Boxing Club, whose members demonstrated discipline, teamwork and positive energy through boxing activities on the beach. Their involvement reinforced the message that strong communities and healthy lifestyles go hand in hand with protecting the environment.
The participants also enjoyed educational talks, marine awareness activities, team challenges and interactive learning experiences focused on ocean conservation, plastic pollution, biodiversity and responsible environmental stewardship.
Members of iKayha Youth and Boxing Club demonstrate that young people can ‘pack a punch’ for conservation. Photo: Andrea Bradfield
Mossel Bay’s coastline is home to an extraordinary marine ecosystem that supports tourism, recreation, livelihoods and an incredible diversity of marine life. The event encouraged young people to recognise the value of these natural assets and become ambassadors for protecting them.
“By connecting young people with the ocean, we inspire them to protect it,” said Andrea Bradfield, founder of iOcean Trust. “Our goal is to nurture a generation of informed and passionate ocean ambassadors who understand the value of our marine heritage and the opportunities that exist within the growing blue economy.”
The ambassadors of iOcean Trust. Photo: Andrea Bradfield
iOcean Trust thanked the organisations and sponsors who supported and contributed to the success of the day.
Bradfield said the day served as a powerful reminder that environmental protection is a shared responsibility and that young people have a critical role to play in shaping a sustainable future.
She also invited the public to attend the upcoming ocean awareness event at the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex from 10:00 to 12:00 on Tuesday 9 June, where visitors can learn more about Mossel Bay’s rich marine heritage and how they can become involved in ocean conservation.
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