I AM WATER Facilitator, Anoyolo Maganyana, leading a workshop in Hermanus on July 27, 2025, in collaboration with Dyer Island Conservation Trust and Cape Nature.
Image: Supplied
Survé Philanthropies has joined hands with the I AM WATER Foundation to expand transformative ocean education and youth empowerment, particularly for young people in under-resourced coastal communities.
The landmark partnership was announced on Earth Day, April 22, 2026.
The collaboration merges Survé Philanthropies’ long-standing commitment to education and youth development with I AM WATER’s experiential learning model, which uses direct engagement with marine and freshwater ecosystems to foster environmental stewardship. Programmes to be scaled include Ocean Guardians Workshops, River Guardians Workshops, Inclusive Ocean Experiences, a School Speaking Series, and guided snorkelling initiatives.
Through activities such as snorkelling, intertidal exploration, and marine ecosystem learning within protected coastal areas, the initiative aims to inspire lasting behavioural change and nurture a generation of environmentally conscious young leaders.
I AM WATER Facilitator, Marlin Van Sensie leading the in water snorkel station with Craggs Primary School at Knysna Heads on May 28, 2025.
Image: Supplied
“I AM WATER believes that we protect what we love, and that reconnecting children to the ocean inspires care, respect, and long-term protection of our blue planet,” said Shireen Sadien, General Manager at I AM WATER. “Our partnership with Survé Philanthropies strengthens our mission by enabling deeper impact, empowering more communities, and expanding access to transformative ocean experiences.”
Saarah Survé, Chair of Survé Philanthropies, added: “Through this partnership, we are investing in more than environmental education. We are investing in a generation of young people who understand their connection to the natural world and their role in protecting it. Having experienced their work firsthand – free diving among marine life with founder Hanli Prinsloo, and participating in their River Guardians workshop – I’ve seen the profound impact of these immersive, educational experiences.”
A group of girls at St James Tidal Pool during Day 1 of the Grade 7 programme with St Mary’s Primary School on May 7, 2025.
Image: Supplied
The partnership underscores a shared belief that early, meaningful exposure to nature can drive long-term environmental action. By expanding access to ocean awareness programmes, the two organisations aim to equip young people not only with awareness but with a lasting sense of responsibility and agency.
For more information, visit survephilanthropies.org or iamwaterfoundation.org.
IOL