We run Ocean Awareness Programs creating pathways to educate

Organization Overview:

The Ocean Awareness program is a dynamic and engaging initiative focused on promoting both physical and mental well-being through ocean-based activities. Our aim is to provide participants with a pathway to enjoying the ocean while fostering a healthier and more productive lifestyle. Aligned with the EU Youth Strategy's pillars of Engage, Connect, and Empower, our program explores outdoor activities grounded in nature connection principles to empower young people and achieve positive outcomes.
Main Activities:
Our sessions offer a diverse range of activities, including surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, body surfing, and ocean education. Through these activities, participants not only experience the thrill of being in the water but also enhance their physical fitness and mental well-being. We prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where young people can develop their skills, build confidence, and connect with nature.
Target Groups:
Our program is designed for youth who are eager to explore the wonders of the ocean and reap the benefits of outdoor activities. We aim to reach young people from diverse backgrounds, providing them with opportunities for personal growth and development. Our activities are youth-focused and aligned with the core principles of the EU youth agenda, ensuring that participants feel connected, respected, and empowered to contribute to the world around them.
By engaging in the Ocean Awareness program, participants can achieve their full potential in all areas of learning and development while fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Promotion of alternative forms of participation

The involvement in sport can play a large role in influencing, enforcing, challenging or guiding individuals. More generally, outdoor activities whether it be defined as a specific sport or simply a group of activities by a group can achieve, or at least guide individuals through incremental steps towards a more confident version of themselves. There is increasing evidence to suggest that it is not just the activity but also the environment where the activities are carried out can have a profound impact on the benefits of these activities. An example can be on a mountain or by water. In fact, there is a large body of work now showing that activities on, in, under or beside the ocean have a profound impact on your happiness, health, connection to others, and better at what you do (Blue Mind Philosophy)

Environment and climate change

The ocean is a finite resource which needs to be protected. There is both economic opportunity and a sustainability education role to be played. By introducing the rural community to our rich local environment we are adding value to our blue pathways while creating opportunities through education to understand and invest in our unique coastline, lakes and rivers.

Inclusion of marginalised young people

Another key objective of our Ocean Awareness program is to target groups who would otherwise not have access to these natural resources, with the health benefits of surf therapy linked to the fluid and dynamic nature of surfing and the sea, while learning to enjoy the ocean in a group context. This can also help enhance a sense of belonging and identity through shared experiences in the ocean.