FREEDIVER l MARINE CONSERVATIONIST
Zandile Ndhlovu is a South African marine conservationist and ocean advocate, known for her pioneering work as the first Black South African Freediving Instructor. She gained prominence for her role in promoting marine conservation and challenging stereotypes about who can be involved in ocean-related fields. Ndhlovu is also the founder of the Black Mermaid Foundation, which focuses on increasing the representation of Black individuals in marine sectors and fostering a deeper connection to the ocean. Her work highlights the importance of diversity in environmental advocacy and aims to inspire future generations to engage with and protect marine ecosystems.
Zandile is recognized in the BBC 100 Women list of 2023, is an award winning conservationist, a TED Speaker and has featured on Discovery Channels Shark Week along with having participated in incredible international campaigns that centre conservation.
She is a change agent, using her voice to create the needed expansion in society while reshaping narratives, through her work in the Foundation, Public Speaking and Storytelling.
Q&A
1. What’s your biggest achievement / Something you’re proud of yourself for?
“I’m proud of how soft i’ve become, I know the question often leans into the external construct, which I am proud of too, but personally, it has been the journey of softening, embracing my humanity, and learning that my only identity is not ‘strong’. As a Black woman you’re raised to be hard, to ‘make it’ despite it all, never shed a tear, never let ‘them’ see you be affected by ‘their words’. But to have grown into a human that cries, can express hurt and stand my ground to be heard – the basics of humanity is a life long work that im so beyond proud of.“
2. What’s your biggest fear / something that holds you back?
“Hmm.. thats a tough one, I dont really hold fears but I do still battle with speaking my truth sometimes, at times you want peace and space to just be, but because we have generations that look up to us, there are many things you cant let slide, that can be a challenge.“
3. What’s your biggest contribution / Something you like to share?
“If im honest, my voice, whether advocating for the ocean, my community or people who cannot speak their truth for fear of loss, I’ve used this voice my whole life to bridge and create space for all to exist cohesively, it doesn’t mean it didn’t get me into trouble, but I think it has served this life.“
4. Fun Facts:
“I keep a yoyo in my handbag lol, I love to play!!“
Thank you for being you!
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