EcoActive, a non-profit organisation based in Muizenberg, has been awarded the Bavo Verheyden Award for the best drowning prevention programme.
Presented by Lifesaving South Africa, this accolade recognises exceptional efforts and dedication in promoting water safety and preventing drowning incidents.
“Being recognised in this way is incredibly rewarding and reaffirms our commitment to the community. We look forward to continuing our work and making a positive impact,” said EcoActive founder Belinda Minter.
The award is named in memory of Bavo Verheyden, a 21-year-old from Belgium who drowned at a beach near Port St Johns in 2011.
Lifesaving South Africa’s Janelle Naidoo said creating awareness, collaborating with local authorities, providing lifeguards, distributing pamphlets and participating in Lifesaving South Africa activities were some of the criteria they assessed when making the award.
Founded in 2014, EcoActive supports at-risk youth in vulnerable communities.
Their drowning prevention programme teaches water-safety skills to schools across Cape Town.
“Grade 4 learners at five schools – Floreat Primary School, Hillwood Primary School, Capricorn Primary School, Levana Primary School, and Zerilda Park Primary School – receive free swimming lessons,” Ms Minter said.
The organisation also helps children transition from primary school to high school and provides resources and guidance to improve academic performance and emotional well-being
EcoActive held a beach run at Muizenberg Beach on Saturday to mark its 10th anniversary.
Visit ecoactive.org.za for more information.
