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Shark Spotters Honoured at the 2024 SANParks Kudu Awards

Shark Spotters Honoured at the 2024 SANParks Kudu Awards

The South African National Parks (SANParks) Kudu Awards stands as a prestigious celebration of excellence, honouring organisations and individuals who go above and beyond in championing education, outreach, and conservation within South Africa’s national parks. Now in its 18th year, this event shines a spotlight on those who tackle critical conservation topics with unwavering passion and dedication. Among the finalists for the coveted Non-Governmental Organisation Award this year was none other than Shark Spotters, news that brought our team to joyful tears. 

Photo Credit: SANParks

This award recognises organisations making profound contributions to conservation, be it through land donations, funding, in-kind support, or active collaboration on impactful research and conservation projects. It celebrates initiatives that exemplify best practices in wildlife management, bioprospecting, and other conservation efforts. For Shark Spotters, being named the winner of this category at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on 28 November 2024, was an extraordinary milestone, made even more special as we celebrate 20 years of service. 

The award was accepted by our Education Manager Taryn Van Neel, who, with heartfelt gratitude, reflected on the journey of Shark Spotters. “Attending the 2024 Kudu Awards was an incredible experience, and it was a privilege to accept this prestigious honour in the Non-Governmental Organisations category on behalf of Shark Spotters, “ Van Neel shared. “The evening celebrated outstanding contributions to conservation, and we are proud to be recognised among such dedicated organisations and individuals. This award is a testament to the innovation, hard work, and commitment of our team across all our divisions – safety, education, research, and conservation. Each plays a vital role in achieving our mission of sustainable shark safety and marine conservation. We are grateful to our partners and communities for their continued support and thank SANParks for this remarkable acknowledgment.” 

A Two-Decade Legacy of Dedication
As Shark Spotters commemorates its 20th anniversary, CEO Sarah Waries highlighted the significance of this recognition: “Our team are deeply honoured to have been recognised by South African National Parks in the 2024 Kudu Awards. As we commemorate our 20th year of operations, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on, and celebrate, the dedication of our passionate team that have made Shark Spotters internationally respected as leaders in sustainable shark bite mitigation and conservation conflict management.” 

Over the years, Shark Spotters has spearheaded integral community outreach and education programmes in the False Bay area, engaging diverse audiences with curricula-aligned content that fosters a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems. Further, our safety and research efforts have led to innovative solutions feeding into marine conservation efforts. This award not only honours our accomplishments but also fuels our drive to amplify our impact in the years to come. 

Spotter at Fish Hoek lookout overlooking Fish Hoek beach

Inspiring the Future of Conservation
The evening at the Kudu Awards was more than a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of what collaboration and dedication can achieve. Shark Spotters extends its heartfelt gratitude to SANParks for this extraordinary honour and to the partners, funders, and communities who continue to support our mission. 

As 2024 draws to a close, this recognition serves as a beacon of inspiration, propelling us forward with even greater optimism, will, and passion for our work in safety, research, education, and conservation. 

Join Us in Celebrating
Rewatch the awards ceremony here: SANParks Kudu Awards 2024. 

For more information about Shark Spotters or media enquiries, please contact: info@sharkspotters.org.za.