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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

The evening was filled with good music, laughter, and an energetic performance by WILDTRUST’s Lauren van Nijkerk, a much-loved tradition that has become part of the annual Dinner on the Dock experience. @blueactionfund.org

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

The evening also marked a special milestone for the 2026 Ocean Stewards, who received their certificates before the floor opened for guests to mingle and celebrate.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

Ocean Stewards from previous years then shared heartfelt reflections on their journeys with the programme, offering the new cohort a glimpse into the connections and opportunities that continue beyond the programme.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

The evening opened with one of the co-founders of the Ocean Stewards Programme, Prof Ursula Schaler, who encouraged the new cohort to embrace the opportunities and experiences that their Ocean Stewards journey will bring.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

The evening provided an opportunity for the 2026 cohort to step away from the sessions, enjoy good food and entertainment, and connect with fellow Ocean Stewards and members of the wider ocean conservation community in a relaxed setting.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

Last night, following the second day of the Ocean Stewards Science Session, Ocean Stewards and friends gathered at the Royal Natal Yacht Club for the annual Dinner on the Dock.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

From policy and science to advocacy, research and international cooperation, Day Two highlighted the many approaches shaping ocean protection and the important role young people can play in shaping its future. @blueactionfund.org

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

The day concluded with WILDTRUST’s Dr Shannon Hampton unpacking the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement and the protection of biodiversity on the High Seas, followed by an interactive BBNJ simulation co-facilitated with Samkelisiwe Danisa.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

Several Ocean Stewards also took centre stage with engaging Speed Talks, sharing their research and experiences as emerging ocean professionals.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

Participants then put theory into practice through an interactive MPA activity led by Dr Harris and Dr Jennifer Olbers, developing and defending proposals for or against the expansion of a mock MPA.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

followed by Dr Cloverly Lawrence from South African National Parks (SANParks), who explored the effectiveness (and limitations) of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

The programme continued with Ms Yonela Mahamba from Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), who unpacked the legislative framework supporting marine biodiversity protection,

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

Dr Jean Harris, Strategic Lead of the WILDOCEANS Programme, kicked off the day with an inspiring keynote on Africa’s unique opportunities and responsibilities within the marine conservation space, encouraging young people to use their voices, take action and actively participate in decision-making.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 02/10/2026

Day two of the 2026 WILDTRUST Ocean Stewards Science Session was nothing short of youthful energy, as the Ocean Stewards and Friends of the Ocean Stewards returned with renewed enthusiasm for another day of learning, engagement and action.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

Whether you’re passionate about ocean conservation, curious about ecosystem restoration, or simply want to learn from people working to create positive change, this conversation is for you!

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Microsoft Forms

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

Together, they will share their experiences, insights, and perspectives on ecosystem restoration and its role in building a more resilient future for our coastal communities and oceans.

forms.cloud.microsoft

Microsoft Forms

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

Meet our Environmental Champions: Jon McCosh – Environmental and Agricultural Specialist Bheka Nxele – Project Manager: Restoration Ecology Sphiwumusa Zama – Ecosystem Restoration Assistant

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Microsoft Forms

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

The session will spotlight the people working on the ground to restore ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and support resilient coastal communities, while unpacking the challenges, successes, and opportunities for greater inclusion.

forms.cloud.microsoft

Microsoft Forms

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

Join us for another inspiring Coastal Champions Webinar, where we’ll explore how ecosystem restoration can strengthen climate resilience across our coastal systems.

forms.cloud.microsoft

Microsoft Forms

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

What happens when we restore our ecosystems to help communities and nature become more resilient to a changing climate?

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

WILDTRUST is excited to invite you to our next Coastal Champions Webinar! Ecosystem Restoration for Climate Resilience Date: Friday, 9 October 2026 Time: 10:00–11:30 Platform: Microsoft Teams Register here: forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/Respon...

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

The presentations created an important space for knowledge exchange between emerging ocean leaders and experienced professionals working across the marine and conservation sector. We look forward to continuing to learn, inspire and connect as the Annual Science Session continues @blueactionfund.org

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

The day concluded with Speed Talks from Ocean Stewards Top-up Funding Awardees, who shared insights from their respective research projects with fellow Stewards, experts and attendees.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

Led by WILDTRUST Communications Director Lauren van Nijkerk, the interactive session introduced participants to campaign development before putting their skills to the test through a live simulation based on real ocean issues.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

Ocean Stewards were then challenged to consider how they could respond to these pressures through advocacy and campaigning.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

Together, the speakers explored some of the emerging pressures and threats facing our oceans and the need for continued action to address them.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

The programme featured a keynote address by Dr Sebataolo Rahlao from the Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI), alongside speaker contributions from Dr Koebraa Peters of Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and Janice Tooley of ALL RISE.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

She encouraged Ocean Stewards to make the most of the occasion by embracing opportunities to learn, exchange ideas, inspire innovation and build meaningful connections.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

Facilitated by 2019 Ocean Steward alumni Alwande Dube and Andile Kuzwayo, the day opened with an overview of the Ocean Stewards Programme by Tracy Dube, WILDTRUST’s Future Leaders Initiative Manager.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

The Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) once again played host to the annual Science Session, bringing together Ocean Stewards, Friends of the Ocean Stewards, WILDTRUST colleagues and experts from across the marine conservation sector.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 01/10/2026

The 2026 Ocean Stewards Science Session Opens with a Bang! The first day of the 2026 Ocean Stewards Science Session got off to an exciting start yesterday, with a range of insightful, thought-provoking and interactive presentations and dialogues.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 29/09/2026

The learning journey also explored the impacts of physical oceanography on small-scale fisheries, providing valuable insights that connect ocean science with fisheries, livelihoods, and the realities faced by fishing communities. Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA)

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 29/09/2026

The programme was particularly relevant to Nosipho’s work with WILDTRUST’s Small-Scale Fishers and Marine Protected Areas Project. During the programme, she explored topics including post-harvest quality from sea to sale, drawing on hands-on assessments conducted at the fish market.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 29/09/2026

Practical sessions included visits to fish markets and fish processing plants, where participants assessed fish quality and hygiene and explored the fish value chain, from landing and sorting to processing, packaging, and sale.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 29/09/2026

The week-long programme combined practical and theoretical sessions, giving participants an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Western Indian Ocean and the communities and industries that depend on it.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 29/09/2026

Last week, the WILDTRUST Communications Manager for the WILDOCEANS Programme, Nosipho Mthabela travelled to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, after being selected as one of the delegates for the Coastal Ocean Environment Summer School in the Western Indian Ocean (COES-WIO).

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 23/09/2026

The initiative was made possible with the support of the @blueactionfund.org.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 23/09/2026

Mary Basson from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife highlighted the ecological risks posed by the Brazilian pepper tree, an invasive alien species, and strongly discouraged its planting. She also discussed gum trees and the large amounts of water they consume, despite having a wide range of uses.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 23/09/2026

The events began with a knowledge-sharing session that encouraged participants to exchange insights into the importance and benefits of trees. The learners then put their knowledge into action, getting their hands dirty as they planted trees and contributed to a greener school environment.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 23/09/2026

Facilitated by WILDTRUST’s Dudu Vilane, the team visited schools across uThukela, where learners recognised as Eco Heroes were awarded gardening tools in recognition of their commitment to ecological sustainability.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 23/09/2026

The initiative contributed to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment’s (DFFE) 1 Billion Trees milestone, together with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife also planting 1,500 trees.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 23/09/2026

Last week, WILDTRUST’s Ocean and Awareness Team, under the uThukela Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project, celebrated Arbor Month across the three nodes under uThukela by hosting tree-planting events.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 22/09/2026

The was made possible through the support of the @blueactionfund.org.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 22/09/2026

The film also explored the impacts of climate change, including extreme temperatures, rising sea levels, and coral reef degradation, and how these changes affect the environment and the people and wildlife that depend on it.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 22/09/2026

WILDTRUST’s Marvin Ntsalaza highlighted the many benefits the ocean provides, from recreational activities to food, as well as its role in influencing weather patterns.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 22/09/2026

The screening of Eco-Heroes: Saving Our Oceans, which forms part of a series of films that promote learning about marine conservation, was preceded by an interactive knowledge-sharing activity. Community members were given various marine specimens to identify and share interesting facts about them.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 22/09/2026

Earlier this month, the Ocean and Awareness Team under the uThukela Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project hosted a film screening at the Nyembe Community Resource Hub, under the Mkhwanazi Traditional Authority.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 22/09/2026

This initiative was made possible through the WILDTRUST driven iSimangaliso Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project, funded by the @blueactionfund.org.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 22/09/2026

For rural households, these technologies can contribute to reduced firewood consumption, lower cooking-related costs, less time spent collecting firewood, and reduced pressure on natural resources.

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WILDTRUST @wildtrust.co.za · 22/09/2026

As part of the distribution, community members received wonder bags, cast iron pots, and rocket stoves- simple technologies that can help households use less fuel while preparing nutritious food.

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