Jamie-Lee Swartz is a volunteer at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town. In honour of World Oceans Day on 9 June, she took it upon herself to organise a beach clean-up. Read about the immense success.

What started out as a childhood dream became a real-life achievement.

As a child I was passionate about the big blue ocean and its natural beauty. The way a cuttlefish blends in with its surroundings or the way a ray gracefully glides through the water, like a bird in the sky. I knew then that I wanted to know more about this profound beauty and I knew that it should be protected. Even though some obstacles may have stopped me from studying these magnificent animals, I am determined to find a way to follow my goals in life.

This is why I decided to become a volunteer at Two Oceans Aquarium.

After a year of volunteering went by I felt the need to do more, which is why I decided to organise a beach clean-up – it would create awareness, educate the public and encourage the youth. With the help and support from Plastics SA, Transnet National Ports Authority and the Two Oceans Aquarium, I was able to host an outstanding event. 

It took place on Sunday, 10 June 2012 at Sunset Beach in celebration of World Environment Week (4 to 8 June), World Oceans Day (8 June) and my birthday. What better way to spend your birthday than with 105 volunteers on a wonderful beach and caring for the ocean?

Everyone doing their part to keep our beaches clean.

Sunset Beach is a long stretch of beach.

Volunteers from the Two Oceans Aquarium, from left: Ana-Alicia Marais, Talisa Marr and me.

The Cummins group.

The Sea Shepherds group at registration.

I look at these pictures now and think, if 105 volunteers all here for one reason, sharing the same passion/concern for the ocean, all because one person had a dream and went for it. How much difference would it make if everyone had this same dream?

Thank you to everyone who made my dream a reality.

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