I Am Water is an organisation with a profound commitment to ocean conservation, achieved through educational and transformative underwater experiences.
Since its inception in 2010, I Am Water has been at the forefront of creating a global movement of ocean-aware individuals.
The essence of their work lies in fostering emotional and physical connections to aquatic environments, thereby deepening the understanding of the symbiotic relationship between healthy oceans and healthy humans.
This understanding is crucial in influencing the behaviour that safeguards our seas.
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A focus for I Am Water is reaching out to under-resourced coastal communities. Surprisingly, in these areas, despite their proximity to the ocean, many young people remain unaware of the wonders that exist beneath the waves.
I Am Water aims to change this by providing first-hand experience of the underwater world.
Core programmes and initiatives:
I Am Water’s approach is built on three pillars: experiences, awareness and advocacy.
Their programmes are varied and impactful and include Ocean Guardians Workshops, River Guardians Workshops and a School Speaking Series.
Ocean Guardians Workshops
The flagship initiative, the Ocean Guardians Workshops, targets Grade 7 learners from schools in underserved Western Cape communities.
These workshops, accommodating up to 36 students at a time, span two full school days.
Activities include yoga-inspired exercises, education on marine ecosystems and challenges and exploration of intertidal zones with marine experts.
A key component is the snorkel station, where participants experience marine life firsthand, from kelp forests to an array of fish species. These workshops not only educate but also foster a deep connection with the ocean.
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River Guardians Workshops
These one-day workshops focus on the link between river and ocean health.
Through environmental education, river ecosystem exploration and clean-up activities, participants learn about the impact of human actions on these ecosystems.
School Speaking Series
This series involves engaging presentations in schools aligned with the South African curriculum.
The focus is on human-ocean connections and conservation solutions, facilitated by I Am Water’s Coaching Community.
Seasonal programmes:
- Summer (January to May): Ocean and River Guardians Workshops
- Winter (June to August): School Speaking Series and River Guardians Workshops
- Spring (September to December): Ocean Guardians Workshops, River Guardians Workshops and Snorkel Holiday Camps
The Coaching Community
Central to I Am Water’s success is its coaching community, comprising marine scientists, lifeguards and conservation advocates, many from the communities they serve.
They undergo continuous training in various skills, ensuring personal and professional development. The programme supports coaches in skill development within the ocean conservation sector, fostering leadership and peer inspiration.
I Am Water’s mission is to create a world where humans and oceans thrive together.
Through their diverse and impactful programmes, they are not only educating the next generation about ocean conservation but also empowering them to be active participants in protecting our marine ecosystems.
I Am Water’s channels:
- Website: iamwaterfoundation.org
- Facebook: I Am Water Ocean Conservation
- Contact: [email protected] | 081 892 7385
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