Across Seychelles, young people are learning about nature, collecting data, restoring ecosystems, sharing what they know and taking on roles that directly contribute to protecting the environment.
This year’s International Youth Day, celebrated on August 12 with the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” shines a spotlight on the role young people play in shaping a more sustainable future.
At Nature Seychelles, we’re fostering that involvement in various ways, from school children exploring their local marine environments to young professionals carving out careers in conservation.
Through our LEAP Junior Clubs, launched at Grand Anse Primary and Anse Boileau Secondary schools, students have had the chance to dive into the marine and coastal ecosystems of two marine national parks in the Port Glaud district. They’ve also contributed to the conservation of wetland and mangrove ecosystems at different sites across Mahé.
These clubs blend classroom learning with outdoor activities, allowing young people to explore, ask questions, and connect with nature up close.
Activities have included beach and mangrove clean-ups, monitoring, testing new technologies, and planting mangroves. Additionally, the Environmental Activity Centres set up at both schools provide spaces for students to keep nurturing their passion for the environment.
Students visiting the Assisted Recovery of Corals facility
Through the Reef Rescuers program, Nature Seychelles brings the reality of coral reef conservation right into the classroom.
Students at schools on Praslin Island have learned about coral reefs and the threats they face, as well as the efforts underway to restore them. They’ve learned about coral biology and participated in hands-on activities such as building coral frames. These experiences help transform abstract environmental issues into something real and relatable.
For those young people eager to take their interest even further, the journey doesn’t have to end with school.
Cousin Island wardens are mentors and role models for other young people,
Nature Seychelles’ EnvironMentor programme supports young people to explore the world of environmental careers while helping them build practical skills and gain valuable experience.
Through engaging school talks, career fairs, open days, work attachments, and volunteer opportunities, students can see that a career in conservation is much more diverse than they might have thought.
Post-Secondary students have had the chance to gain experiences through work-based placements at Cousin Island Special Reserve and with the Reef Rescuers. Some have gone on to contribute to other conservation projects and, in a few cases, joined the Nature Seychelles team.
On Cousin Island Special Reserve, the wardens play an important role in safeguarding one of Seychelles’ most vital nature reserves. Their responsibilities include protecting wildlife, gathering data, managing the reserve, guiding visitors, and tackling the daily challenges of conserving an island ecosystem.
They are mentors and role models for other young people, showing them that a future in conservation is within reach, and that everyone can care about the natural environment.
Investing in young people is truly an investment in Seychelles' natural heritage
Nature conservation isn’t something that can be done by just one organization or a select group of specialists. It requires individuals who understand their environment, care deeply about it, and possess the skills and confidence to take action.
That’s why investing in young people is truly an investment in Seychelles’ natural heritage. Our mission is to ensure they have the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to do so.