EcoActive, a non-profit organisation located in the Cape Flats, has enacted a drowning prevention program to educate children on water safety.
Recently, the fruitful program has won an award.
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The Drowning and Dropout Prevention program has been awarded the Bayo Verheyden Award from Lifesaving South Africa for the Best Drowning Prevention Initiative.
Each year, the award is issued in memory of Mr Bavo Verheyden.
Verheyden was a 21-year-old Belgian citizen who drowned in the River Mouth near Port St Johns in 2011. Bart, the older brother of the drown victim, was with him but fortunately managed to escape the deadly rip current.
His brother’s body had been found later that same week.
The accident occurred at the peak of the spring high tide.
The lack of warning signs on the beach and at the resort combined with the dangerous sea conditions contributed to its occurrence.
Belinda Minter established EcoActive in 2014 and the Bavo Verheyden Award is its first.
‘I recognised the need to provide at-risk youth with essential life skills and water safety education in my community, where resources were limited’ Minter told the DailyVoice.
She further described the win as a significant recognition of the team’s dedication and commitment to the community.
The award was presented during the annual charity beach run.
Volunteers, supporters and learners were present to commemorate the occasion.
EcoActive has implemented water safety awareness campaigns throughout the community.
In addition, free swimming lessons are provided to Grade 4 learners at five different primary schools. These lessons take place at the Retreat swimming pool.
Furthermore, the Dropout Prevention Program aids in skills development and academic support.
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Picture: EcoActive