About Us
Our History
& so it began …
Founded in the Phillipines
2020
Pelagic’s journey began as a non profit company dedicated to coral restoration and education. Through collaborative efforts with the Filipinas, local government agencies, and private businesses, we developed a proven blueprint for impactful projects that transcend sectors, with conservation at the core.
Our commitment to making a difference expanded when we responded to the humanitarian crisis caused by Hurricane Rai / Typhoon Odette on the island of Bohol. In the aftermath of this devastating Category 5 hurricane, Pelagic, in collaboration with the Ubay Relief Drive, emerged as a successful disaster relief initiative. Through this devastating disaster, our team witnessed firsthand the immeasurable value mangrove trees and forests have in protecting coastal communities and marine coastlines.
In late 2022, following the successful execution of our projects in the Philippines, Pelagic embarked on a new chapter, bringing our expertise to the Wild Coast of South Africa. Here, we operate with a broader scope and employ solution-driven strategies to address the pressing conservation needs of the region.
Timeline
June 2023
As a result, this community has become the first to benefit from the development of a Rising Habitat.
December 2021
Pelagic Wake Global decided to co-lead a Disaster Relief Drive in partnership with a community initiative, Ubay Relief Drive. Enabling Pelagic to expand its reach to neighbouring islands.
Thankfully, our Coral Nursery survived the hurricane and continues to thrive today.
November 2020
Training local volunteer technicians to manage two (2) nurseries on Napalang Reef, Bohol Island; Pelagic Wake was piloting their blue-print within two months of launching the initiative.
August 2022
MArch 2021
September 2020
With Christien le Roux at the helm, it was time for her to take everything she gained over the years, from inspiration, experience, work, volunteering, training, frustration and immense research and apply a new model or blueprint for conservation management.
Timeline
June 2023
As a result, this community has become the first to benefit from the development of a Rising Habitat.
AUGUST 2022
DECEMBER 2021
Pelagic Wake Global decided to co-lead a Disaster Relief Drive in partnership with a community initiative, Ubay Relief Drive. Enabling Pelagic to expand its reach to neighbouring islands.
Thankfully, our Coral Nursery survived the hurricane and continues to thrive today.
MARCH 2021
NOVEMBER 2020
Training local volunteer technicians to manage two (2) nurseries on Napalang Reef, Bohol Island; Pelagic Wake was piloting their blue-print within two months of launching the initiative.
SEPTEMBER 2020
With Christien le Roux at the helm, it was time for her to take everything she gained over the years, from inspiration, experience, work, volunteering, training, frustration and immense research and apply a new model or blueprint for conservation management.
Board of directors
Ms. C. le Roux
Founder & CEO
With her experience as a Scuba Diver, commitment to Community Development and knowledge of Coral Restoration, it was natural for Christien to seize the moment to develop Pelagic Wake Global.
Reflecting her lifelong passion for creating meaningful change.
Mr. J. Holbrook
Treasurer
Having witnessed the alarming degradation of coral reefs, Jim was prompted to take action. Pelagic Wake Global is creating a movement to address the pressing challenges facing coral reefs.
His commitment to sustainable approaches underpins Pelagic’s mission.
Dr. D. de Villiers
Conservationist
When expanding operations to the Eastern Cape, Div was the first choice to help lead community engagements, conservation efforts and sustainable strategies within the Wild Coast.
His strategic guidance plays a pivotal role in advancing our mission.
COLLABORATING PARTNERS
We firmly believe in the power of collaboration
Our story began with early partnerships alongside Scuba Diving companies in the Philippines, fostering our dedication to protecting coral reefs. Today, along the Wild Coast, our journey continues with dynamic collaborations. These include tourism partnerships with The Traveling Circus, various environmental consulting firms & conservationists, the East London Museum, and academic institutions globally.
We pledge commitment to communities who are passionate and dedicated to the celebration of their heritage and the protection of their natural resources, guarding a dignified and enduring future for all.
Divers Community Club (DCC)
VALM
The Traveling Circus
We believe in a world where connections can empower local communities and provide a platform for growth and development, establishing a more prosperous future for all.
Div de Villiers Conservation Services
Biodiversity Conservation of South Africa’s Wild Coast through the Years: Exploring the Tensions between Western-style and Local Traditional Conservation Practices
Pelagic Allies
The Greatest Shoal on Earth
The biggest bucket list adventure you will have off land.
Text: Tonya Khoury
Photographs: Tonya Khoury and Walter Bernardis