Shannon Lee Sanilall adds her voice to the youth who are highlighting the importance of Marine Protected Areas in South Africa.
South Africa (15 July 2024) – In the build-up to the 4th annual Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Day celebration on 1 August 2024, some of the younger MPA community have shared their unique insights into the world of conservation. In addition to the vital contribution MPAs play in marine life protection, they also serve to create economic opportunities for local citizens, including the youth. Youth like Shannon Lee Sanilall are inspiring more youths to get involved!
If you didn’t know, Marine Protected Areas Day (MPA Day) started off as a local celebration. In 2022, it grew into a global day to be proud of. So, what is it all about? According to Dr Judy Mann, the Founder of MPA Day, a lot of people don’t know what an MPA is.
An MPA is a defined region designated and managed for the long-term conservation of marine resources, ecosystem services, and cultural heritage. You can find 12 other fast facts about MPAs here.
“Community support is vital for the protection of our Marine Protected Areas. To build this support we need to showcase the value – environmental, economic, and social – of these ‘nature reserves of the sea’,” explained Dr Judy Mann, Founder of MPA Day, and the Executive of Strategic Projects at The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation.
“This is best expressed by those who are experiencing the benefits themselves, which is why the youth in MPA management have chosen to share their stories.” ‘These young people are future leaders and through MPA Day we are trying to give them support and encouragement as they find their voices in conservation.” She added.
Shannon Lee Sanilall (27) from iSimangaliso MPA in KZN and Shark and Ray Sanctuaries, shares her experience in working with MPA teams, with the hope of inspiring more youth to get involved this MPA Day and beyond!
How did you get involved?
I started as the African Youth Summit coordinator in 2022 and had a passion for conservation policy. My managers also noticed this which allowed me to start in my role.
What is your role?
As Marine Policy Coordinator, I interpret, analyse, and comment on conservation policies. It’s important to understand how policy is created, why it’s created, and how it should be applied. It’s a powerful tool for the implementation of protected areas, and to ensure MPAs are governed correctly.
Do you work with other South African youth?
I’ve had the privilege of sitting on the secretariat of the 30×30 Cross-Cutting committee and had a hand in organising the 30×30 Implementation Workshop. In previous roles, I advocated for increased marine protection in South Africa by co-leading youth awareness campaigns and hosting educational workshops.
What is your proudest moment?
Attending COP15 as part of the South African Delegation as a youth representative. Following COP15, I worked closely with government to plan and execute the 30×30 Implementation Workshop.
What is your biggest challenge?
The lack of urgency that exists due to politics.
Join in on all the MPA Day 2024 action by visiting MPA Day for updated events and activities.
Sources: Supplied
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