Sombrio Kelp Connection
Project Details
Sombrio Kelp Connection is small project worked on by surfers and students who care deeply about the condition of the natural environments that we recreate on. The goal of our project is to promote sustainable practices through the exploration of human-nature connection
Project Description
My project, Sombrio Kelp Connection, explores the innate connection that humans have to our environment, especially the ocean. Humans, myself included, travel hundreds of miles from our homes just to spend time at the ocean and indulge in the many activities that it offers such as surfing. Sombrio Kelp Connection is based in a remote coastal area of Vancouver Island with limited development where people travel to surf, camp, hike, and explore nature. The beach itself (Sombrio Beach), not only boasts one of the best surf breaks on the Island, but it is also a thriving ecosystem that is home to many fish, mammals, birds, trees, and other vegetation. At this location we are particularly interested in the kelp forest ecosystem that exists just past the surf breaks on the reef/beach. The image of surfers paddling amongst the kelp blades is a perfect representation how humans connect with and exist within our natural environment, and we wanted to capture this image in video form in the hopes that it will inspire people to think more about the impact we have on the lands and waters that we recreate on. This is becoming increasingly important as more people are getting into outdoor recreational activities such as surfing, camping, ski touring, etc. in recent years, and we want to make sure that our favorite outdoor locations are preserved into the future.
This project has been created in commemoration of the lives of all the victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, including two Ocean Bridge ambassadors, Danielle Moore and Micah Messent. We aspire to carry on their legacy and commitment to making the world a better place by creating long-lasting impacts with a firm commitment to driving positive change for the environment and our ocean. We will never forget the light that Danielle and Micah brought to the world and will continue to keep them in our hearts. To learn more about these two amazing people, please visit: Honouring Danielle and Micah – Ocean Wise. This work is partially funded by the Commemoration Fund for Victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Tragedy.
What was your biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge was managing to capture the video shots of the kelp forester and waves together with the available lighting. Our videographer Rosie really persevered and did an incredible job with the conditions that we had to work with. Overall persistence was key.
What was your most valuable takeaway?
My most valuable takeaway from this experience is that I am capable of inspiring change simply by applying my own interests and knowledge to a project, and working hard to see it through.
