Introduction
Save Our Seas had the privilege of participating in the Thadingyut Carnival organized by Hinthar International School on October 10th, 2024. The event provided a valuable platform for the Save Our Seas team to engage with students, raise awareness about marine conservation, and gather insights to guide future initiatives. Collaborating with four dedicated student volunteers, the team focused on two main activities: spreading awareness and collecting data through a survey. These activities were aimed at educating participants on the urgent issue of marine plastic pollution and preparing for an upcoming poster competition.
Activity 1: Awareness Raising
The first activity involved volunteers manning an informational booth, where they engaged directly with students and visitors. The volunteers explained the goals of the Save Our Seas project, highlighting the critical issue of marine plastic pollution, its impact on ecosystems, and the importance of immediate action.
They also shared information about future activities the project will undertake, encouraging further participation and involvement. The booth attracted more than 100 students, many of whom expressed genuine interest in the cause. As a result, the Save Our Seas project saw an increase in social media followers, expanding its online presence and outreach.
Activity 2: Survey Collection
The second activity was focused on gathering valuable feedback through a survey designed to support the planning of an upcoming poster competition aimed at raising awareness about ocean conservation. The survey, consisting of questions about environmental awareness and attitudes toward plastic pollution, collected a total of 54 responses. This pre-project survey will help guide the direction and messaging of the poster competition, ensuring it resonates with the target audience and addresses key concerns identified during the event.
Outcome
The participation in the Thadingyut Carnival yielded several positive outcomes. First, the awareness-raising booth successfully informed over 100 students about the importance of combating marine plastic pollution, generating interest and engagement in the cause. The project’s social media presence also grew, providing a channel to maintain ongoing communication with new followers. Additionally, the 54 survey responses provided crucial insights for the team to consider when organizing future activities, particularly the poster competition.
Conclusion
The event was a success thanks to the combined efforts of the Save Our Seas team, student volunteers, Hinthar International School, and the school’s Principal. The collaboration not only increased awareness about the project’s mission but also gathered important data to support upcoming initiatives. We are deeply grateful to everyone involved for their commitment, enthusiasm, and support in making the event impactful and meaningful. We look forward to continuing our work in protecting the oceans and engaging more young people in this vital cause.
