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When we think about protecting the ocean, images of scientists researching coral reefs or volunteers collecting litter along the beach often pop up.
But behind many of the ground-breaking decisions that shape the future of our oceans are people working in governance and community engagement – people like Durban's own Samkelisiwe ‘Samke’ Danisa.
At just 31 years old, Samke has already built an impressive career in marine conservation, and she’s passionate about making young people's voices heard in discussions that impact the future of our ocean.
A journey with global impact
Samke's love for sustainable development began while studying at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where she completed an Honours degree in Policy and Development.
This passion eventually took her halfway around the world.
After receiving a Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) scholarship during an internship with eThekwini Municipality, she completed a Master of Science in Maritime Affairs at the prestigious World Maritime University in Sweden, specialising in ocean sustainability, governance, and management.
She decided to return home to put those skills to work protecting South Africa's coastline.
READ: From deckhand to first mate: Meet the KZN sailor making waves on the world's superyachts
Championing young voices in ocean conservation
Today, Samke is the Youth Policy and Strategy Coordinator for WILDTRUST's WILDOCEANS programme. She connects young people with environmental decision-making, giving them the platform to influence the future health of the ocean – and their planet.
Her role involves:
- Coordinating youth initiatives including Youth4MPAs, YouthxConservation and Justice4Jaws.
- Helping young conservationists understand how policies are created.
- Helping young conservationists influence decisions affecting biodiversity and marine protection.
"Seeing young people gain the confidence, knowledge and skills to actively participate in conservation policy is one of the most rewarding parts of my work," she says.
That work has already had a tangible impact.
Youth representatives are contributing to consultations on South Africa's National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
They’re also participating in international events such as the Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya - the first time the global conference was hosted on African soil.
Samke believes one of the biggest challenges is ensuring young people aren't simply invited into environmental conversations but are genuinely heard.
"Young people are increasingly being included in important discussions, but we still need to make sure their perspectives influence the decisions that are made," she explains.
READ: Catch some Olympic-class sailing in Durban this August
Conservation is for everyone
Samke wants young people to know that conservation isn't reserved for marine biologists. Whether your passion is law, education, economics, communications, or community development, there's a place for you in protecting the environment.
"Long-term change happens when passionate people work together, support one another and advocate for healthy, resilient oceans for future generations."
This extends to MPA Day, celebrated on Saturday, 1 August, to promote the conservation of these ‘nature reserves of the sea’.
READ: What’s MPA Day and why should you care?
This year’s MPA Day is particularly meaningful for Samke as she’s helping organise the Youth4MPAs MPA Day Celebration, hosted in partnership with WILDTRUST and the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, with support from the High Seas Alliance.
Themed ‘From the Coast to the High Seas’, young conservationists, scientists, policymakers, and environmental organisations will explore how South Africa's MPAs connect with global ocean conservation efforts and the landmark Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement.
Find out how you can get involved by clicking here to view the full programme of activities and participating locations.
With leaders like Samke, Durban's next generation of ocean warriors is in good hands!
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