Shark Spotters

𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗦𝗔𝗡𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘀 𝗞𝘂𝗱𝘂 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 This year, as we celebrate 20 years of protecting people and sharks, we are beyond thrilled to have been named the winner of the Non-Governmental Organisation Award at the 2024 SANParks Kudu Awards! 🏆 This prestigious honour recognises our dedication to sustainable shark safety, conservation, and education. It's a true testament to the passion and hard work of our team, partners, and communities who make it all possible 💙 A huge thank you to South African National Parks for this incredible acknowledgment, and to everyone who has supported us along the way. Here’s to more milestones, more impact, and another 20 years of making waves! 🌊 Read more about this unforgettable achievement 👉 https://lnkd.in/dyraka87 Photo Credit: Image 2 & 3 - SANParks #sharkspotters #kuduawards2024 #ConservationHeroes #20YearsOfImpact #marineconservation #MakingWaves

NEW BLOG ALERT 🗞️: Bonga Govuza spent a month with International Ocean Institute Southern Africa attending the Ocean Governance training. During this period he opened new doors, built new connections, and learnt heaps of new concepts in ocean governance. To revisit Bonga's journey, read all about his experience here 👉: https://lnkd.in/dnAEbY5F

NEW BLOG ALERT 🦈: The mainstream narrative of sharks as hungry monsters preying on humans is finally starting to shift. But now, a different dynamic is emerging: humans consuming sharks. Driven by the global demand for protein, some shark species are increasingly finding their way onto our plates. But is it safe to eat shark meat? Researchers at the University of Cape Town took on this pressing question in a recent study. Their findings might make you think twice. Dive into the details in our latest blog: https://ow.ly/yuRV50UAVay

In November 2024, Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) hosted an inspiring evening, titled From Seaforest to Rainforest: From Cape Town to the Amazon. The event featured a panel of captivating and inspiring storytellers, whose narratives wove together themes of resilience and persistence. Proceeds from the evening were generously donated to the Shark Spotters Graduate Training Programme. Reflecting on the event, Brandon Beaukes, GTP Programme Coordinator, shared: “The opportunity to attend the Save Our Seas Foundation event was an unforgettable experience. From Thomas Peschak’s breathtaking images to the chance to hear from such an inspiring panel, it was a powerful reminder of how impactful storytelling can be in the drive for global ocean conservation. The donation to Shark Spotters significantly contributes to improving access and opportunities for our young marine conservationists of colour.” We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Save Our Seas Foundation for their unwavering support of Shark Spotters and their dedication to creating a ripple effect in marine conservation efforts.

Last month, the Meadow Ridge Library brought an inspiring educational programme to the learners of Constantia Primary School (Grades 5–7), sparking curiosity and safety awareness. The event, centred on Ocean Safety, was perfectly timed to equip the young learners with crucial skills as the holiday season approached. The programme featured an engaging presentation on beach and water safety, with a special spotlight on the role of Shark Spotters. Through vivid and interactive discussions, the learners gained a deeper understanding of the importance of being vigilant and prepared when near the ocean. "It was such a welcome sight to hear and see the learners passionate about being involved and wanting to contribute to the conversations. I hope they all keep that spark of enthusiasm as they grow older. We need more of that in our youth!" - shared one of the Constantia Primary School Educators Photo Credit: Zukhanye and Sinovuyo on behalf of Shark Spotters #EducationMatters #SafetyAwareness #YouthEngagement #SharkSpotters

The perfect pairing is a hot summers day and cold plunge in the ocean! But, safety should always come first in the ocean. Remember that: 🚩 If you are not fully aware of all of the risks of bathing in the ocean and are not prepared to take these risks, do not go into the ocean. ⚠️ Be on the lookout for schools of fish, diving birds and feeding seals and dolphins as they are the best indicator of possible shark activity. ⚠️ Swimming, surfing and paddling at night is riskier as there are no Spotters or Lifeguards on duty ⚠️ Avoid swimming in murky water and in low light as there is a higher chance that sharks can mistaken you for prey. #BeSharkSmart

What fantastic news! Sanlam's continued support of Plett Shark Spotters has been instrumental in the success of the spotting programme. This support has provided a foundation for advancing research and marine education efforts in the Plett area. We are deeply grateful to Sanlam for their unwavering commitment!

𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀! 🦈🎆 As we welcome 2025, we want to express our gratitude to all our supporters who have been with us on this incredible journey. Here's to another year of promoting ocean safety and coexistence with these magnificent creatures. Wishing you a fantastic year ahead! 🌊🌟

𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦: 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗻, 𝗦𝗔𝗡𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗻 Shark Spotters is pleased to announce a three-year partnership with the City of Cape Town to support the management of baboons through the implementation of the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan (CPBSMP). Under this agreement, NCC Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd will continue overseeing baboon management and the ranger programme until the end of February 2025. From 1 March 2025, Shark Spotters will take full responsibility for coordinating baboon management efforts across the Peninsula. A seamless transition is prioritised, with all existing staff employed by the programme retained, ensuring stability for both the team and baboon management services. Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/dZjkHCmK City of Cape Town South African National Parks (SANParks) CapeNature

During my visit to Cape Town, South Africa I worked with shark conservation non-profit Shark Spotters. Read more about my experience here: https://lnkd.in/d3sqPr3c