The beauty and diversity of South Africa's marine environment came into focus in Durban as young photographers from across KwaZulu-Natal took part in the 2026 Unisa Marine and Ocean Photography Competition from 26 to 29 August 2026. 

The annual initiative, which combines education, creativity and experiential learning, brought together 40 learners from eight schools across the province. Five learners from each school participated in a programme designed to introduce them to photography while encouraging a deeper appreciation of the ocean and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. 

The initiative aligns with one of Unisa's 10 Catalytic Niche Areas, Marine Studies. It also responds to the need to strengthen awareness and knowledge of South Africa’s marine environment, with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation's Marine Research Plan noting that coastal oceanography in South Africa remains a developing field. 

The programme began with a practical camera-handling workshop coordinated by Katlego Pilane from the College of Human Sciences' Communications and Marketing Unit. 

Learners were introduced to the fundamentals of photography, including camera handling and basic techniques for capturing compelling images. The workshop prepared them for the following day’s practical photography session along the Durban coastline. 

Director of Durban Recreation and Parks, Dr Simphiwe Ndlovu, welcomed the guests and participants during the workshop. He commended Unisa for bringing the initiative to Durban and creating an opportunity for young people to explore the ocean through photography. 

"This initiative does not only promote artistry but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of marine biodiversity," said Dr Ndlovu. 

He encouraged the learners to use the experience to develop their creativity while learning more about careers and opportunities in the marine industry. 

The learners also heard from Maryke Musson, Executive Manager of the South African Association for Marine Biology Research (SAAMB), and Kathy Drummond from uShaka Sea World. Their presentations provided learners with career guidance and introduced them to maritime studies and opportunities within the broader marine sector. 

The following day, the young photographers travelled to Umhlanga Rocks beach, where they put their newly acquired skills into practice. 

With the Indian Ocean as their backdrop, the learners explored the coastline and captured images reflecting their individual perspectives on marine life, the movement of the ocean and the relationship between people and the sea. 

Each participant was required to submit five photographs based on the competition's five themes: 

• Life beneath the waves 
• Ocean in motion 
• Coastal connection 
• Marine Conservation in action 
• Hidden treasures of the shoreline 

The photographs were adjudicated by Dr Leana Van der Merwe, lecturer in the Department of Arts and Music; Terrence Pieters, professional ocean photographer and third-place winner of the Berlin Photo Awards; Nosipho Hlophe and Bongumusa Mbhele from the Durban Film Office; Nathi Holngwa and Sihle Xaba from Aquatic Safety. 

The competition culminated in a prize-giving ceremony celebrating the creativity and commitment of the participating learners. 

Kwahluzigqondo High School learner Zama Gebashe was named the winner and received a tablet and R5 000. 

Siphosethu Shandu from Umlazi Senior Secondary School was the first runner-up, receiving a tablet and R3 500, while Aphiwe Buthelezi from Bonguzwane High School took second runner-up and received a tablet and R2 500. 

For Prof Tyali, Director of the School of Art, the competition demonstrated how education and experiential learning can inspire young people to engage with environmental issues. 

"The Marine and Ocean Photography Competition demonstrates the power of education, creativity and experiential learning in inspiring the next generation to care for the environment," said Prof Tyali. 

By putting cameras in the hands of young people and taking them to the shoreline, the initiative encouraged learners to view the ocean not simply as a natural resource, but as a living environment that requires protection and offers opportunities for further study and careers. 

Prof Tyali expressed appreciation to the Durban Film Office, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, the Aquatic Safety South Beach team and the uShaka Sea World team for their support in making the event possible. 

Beyond the competition and prizes, the initiative allowed learners to engage directly with the marine environment, develop their creative abilities and learn about potential career pathways. 

It also reinforced the importance of introducing young people to marine conservation at an early age and encouraging them to become informed ambassadors for the protection of South Africa’s oceans and coastline. 

The team behind the annual competition includes Prof Tyali, Director of the School of Art; Jimmy Mabina (CHS Project Coordinator); Karabo Mafetsa, Makwarela Mudau and Rachel Maboa from the Department of Linguistics and Modern Languages; and Katlego Pilane and Nnana Jege from the CHS Communications and Marketing Unit. 

* By Nnana Martina Jege, CHS: Communications and Marketing