In December 2021, Aquaworld’s founder, Paul Ayomide Eweola, earned recognition as one of National Geographic’s Young Explorers for 2022. These explorers are known for their remarkable courage, leadership, and ability to drive change—a description that perfectly fits Paul. His dedication extends to Aquaworld, a youth-led organization committed to enhancing the ocean’s aesthetic value.
This exceptional honour enabled Paul to lead a year-long project aimed at equipping 12 coastal communities in the Ilaje region of Ondo State against plastic pollution and other ocean challenges. Aquaworld’s efforts culminated in the Ocean Leaders Drive Project under National Geographic’s Young Explorers grant.
The Ocean Leaders Drive Project was a collaborative community initiative, focusing on educating the younger generation in Ilaje, Ondo State, about plastic pollution, its sources, effects, and actionable solutions. Fifteen youths, aged 17-28, were selected, trained, and empowered to become young ocean leaders. These leaders embarked on fieldwork in targeted communities, driving change and raising awareness.
The project’s impact was profound: it engaged 13 communities, 31 schools, and over 10,000 individuals. From school and community outreach to plastic cleanup activities, Aquaworld’s Ocean Leaders Drive Project made a lasting difference in Ilaje, Ondo state.
The project began on January 3, 2022, and concluded on December 17, 2022. It left a lasting legacy in the fight against plastic pollution, showcasing the power of community-driven initiatives. As Paul Eweola aptly puts it, “Empowering coastal communities with information and skills is the key to improving their environment.”
The Ocean Leaders Drive Project exemplified the strength of unity and the ability to drive change. As one project member reflects, “With our diverse backgrounds, we overcame differences to achieve a common goal. We are one.”
The project impact report can be found here.
Join Aquaworld in making waves of change. We believe in the power of collective action and community empowerment.