Before the first Hadida awoke in Lynnwood, Pretoria, Marine Dynamics CEO and Dyer Island Conservation Trust founder, Wilfred Chivell, along with Public Relations Officer Christine Wessels, were already at the Groot Ontbyt (kykNET Channel 144) studios to join presenters Jennifer Myburg and Suân Müller-Marais for a live broadcast.
The segment highlighted Marine Dynamics Shark and Whale Tours’ unique model of non-consumptive ecotourism, which directly funds critical marine conservation initiatives. Jennifer and Suân asked about the alarming state of global shark populations, and how Marine Dynamics is playing a leading role in their protection.
Marine Dynamics is working closely with shark scientists and ambassadors to advocate for the removal of outdated bather protection methods—such as shark nets—that indiscriminately kill sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. The team is also actively campaigning against the destructive impact of demersal inshore longliners on shark species.
The conversation then turned to the critically endangered African Penguin, with only 1% of the population remaining. Jennifer and Suân were eager to learn more about the conservation efforts of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust and the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary, especially the work being done to safeguard the penguin colony on Dyer Island.
A heartwarming surprise came when Jennifer, who has previously experienced a bronze whaler shark cage dive with Marine Dynamics, presented a R10,000 donation from Groot Ontbyt towards ocean conservation. This generous gesture was matched by Pieter van den Bergh of Aluma Capital, who added another R10,000.
Marine Dynamics extends sincere gratitude to the Groot Ontbyt team for the opportunity to share this important work, and to Aluma Capital for supporting meaningful conservation impact. Together, we’re helping to invest in our oceans—for today, and for the future.
