Four Young Ocean Champions from Tristan da Cunha—Kieran, Ryan, Shannon, and Tristan—have successfully completed an intensive six-month training program in the UK. Under the guidance of Trevor Glass, Head of Conservation, these young conservationists have undergone training and are now ready to apply their new skills to protect and manage their island’s unique Marine Protection Zone.
An Incredible Journey of Growth and Learning
The journey began back in March when three of the young champions departed from Tristan da Cunha, one of the world's most remote inhabited islands, to embark on a life-changing adventure. They were later joined by the fourth young champion, who was already in the UK. For one of them, it was the first time ever leaving the island, which brought its own challenges, such as adapting to bustling city life, navigating large crowds, and adjusting to vastly different environments. However, despite these hurdles, all four adapted admirably, demonstrating resilience and a strong willingness to learn.
Their training included a diverse range of activities and courses, such as powerboat training, navigation, VHF radio communication, diesel engine maintenance, first aid, personal survival techniques, and leadership skills. In addition, they attended a marine science camp and underwent advanced open water and rescue diving training. The program concluded with drone and GIS training in South Africa, followed by biosecurity checks before they departed for their journey back to Tristan da Cunha on the SA Agulhas
Newly Certified and Ready for Action
All four Young Ocean Champions are now certified PADI Rescue Divers, which is a significant accomplishment. This achievement adds a crucial skill set for their marine conservation efforts. With the training they have completed, they will be better equipped to support the Conservation & Fisheries Department. As a result, they will play a vital role in ensuring the integrity of Tristan’s Marine Protection Zone.
Reflections from the Young Ocean Champions
Each of the Young Ocean Champions shared their personal experiences of the intensive training:
Tristan Glass:
“The trip was really good, and everything went well. I particularly enjoyed the dive training—the course was at a good level with some challenging parts, but the instructors were supportive and great at building confidence. The only improvement I would suggest is to make the diesel engine maintenance course more intense.”
Kieran Glass:
“The whole trip has been pretty good. The long taxi drives were a bit tiring, but that’s part of getting to different training courses. I particularly enjoyed the first aid course—hopefully, nothing happens, but at least I have the training and confidence to handle different situations. There are lots of guides from the various bits of training to take back to Tristan to refer back to.”
Shannon Swain:
“Overall, everything was really good, and I have no negatives or improvements to suggest. I enjoyed all the training, except the diesel engine maintenance course as I didn’t quite understand it. I really enjoyed the boat training and look forward to getting out in the RIB with Trevor. I’m excited to bring all these skills back to Tristan and will definitely be doing as much diving as possible for survey work.”
Ryan Swain:
“I have no negatives about the trip; it was generally really positive. Diving was a particular highlight, and I’m really looking forward to putting these skills into practice and teaching others back on Tristan.”
Trevor Glass on the Champions’ Achievements
Trevor Glass, who accompanied the group, expressed his pride in their accomplishments:
“The trip has been really positive, and all the youngsters have done really well. There were times I had my doubts when they came back from the diving course extremely tired, but I’m very pleased they enjoyed it and all passed. The diving course was particularly important—having Rodney (Deputy Head Fisheries/Dive Master) now supported in the water is a great asset. All the courses were valuable, especially the diesel engine maintenance course—when you’re out on the water on Tristan, you can’t call for backup if you run into difficulty. I’m keen for the youngsters to start diving as soon as possible when back on Tristan to put their training into practice. As a Conservation Department, we will be able to accomplish so much more now with additional, well-trained staff members.”
Gratitude to Our Supporters
None of this incredible journey would have been possible without the generous support of our funders, the Blue Nature Alliance, who have supported the Atlantic Guardians project and this training scheme. Special thanks also go to the RSPB and the Blue Belt Programme for their additional support. We are deeply grateful to them for providing the Young Champions with this amazing opportunity to grow, learn, and protect Tristan’s unique marine environment.
The Young Ocean Champions are now back home, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge, skills, and a renewed passion for preserving the ocean environment around Tristan da Cunha. The community is beyond proud of all their achievements and looks forward to seeing them apply their training to protect the island’s natural wonders.
Posted in: Tristan News, Young Ocean Champions
