Connecting Young Capetonians to the Ocean

President Hotel

Ahead of World Oceans Day, The President Hotel partnered with local tour operators and marine biologist Kirshia Govender to host Paddle Our Community, a morning on the water designed to connect young people with one of Cape Town's most important natural assets: the ocean.

On Saturday, 6 June, 50 high school learners from Philippi Village took part in a guided kayaking experience from Three Anchor Bay. Located in Philippi, Philippi Village is a hub for social impact, education and community development, supporting young people through a range of programmes focused on opportunity and growth.

For many of the learners, the outing offered a chance to experience the Atlantic Ocean from a different perspective. After arriving for a safety briefing, the group launched from the beach and paddled along the coastline, taking in views of the city, Signal Hill and the surrounding shoreline. Along the way, they were treated to remarkable wildlife sightings, including Heaviside's dolphins, African penguins and a large pod of feeding bottlenose dolphins moving through the bay, creating an unforgettable connection to the marine environment on their doorstep.

World Oceans Day serves as an important reminder of the role our oceans play in sustaining communities, supporting livelihoods and shaping the places we call home. As a coastal hotel, The President recognises the importance of creating opportunities for people to connect with the natural environment that surrounds us.

Events such as Paddle Our Community reflect The President Hotel's ongoing commitment to community-focused initiatives that create meaningful connections between people and place. By working alongside organisations such as Aonyx Marine Experiences and Philippi Village, the hotel aims to support experiences that broaden horizons and foster a deeper appreciation for Cape Town's unique natural environment.

As the learners returned to shore, there was a sense of achievement, excitement and connection that lingered long after the paddles were packed away.

This World Oceans Day, we celebrate not only the ocean itself, but the opportunities it creates to bring people together, inspire future generations and strengthen our connection to the city we call home.

Special thanks to Kirshia Govender from Aonyx Marine Experiences for arranging as well as TRUTH Travel, Glide Kayak Adventures, Cape Kayak Adventures, Two Oceans Aquarium and Cape Adventure Guide