Waves of Change

Cape Town, South Africa

Hout Bay is a reflection of South Africa in so many ways. A place of breathtaking natural beauty, where the ocean meets the mountains, but also a place where opportunity isn’t evenly shared. While some have doors opened for them, others have to push through barriers to create their own path.

Over the course of two months in Hout Bay, Cape Town, I documented the work of Sentinel Ocean Alliance, a grassroots NGO using the ocean as both classroom and catalyst. I photographed their programmes up close, from surf therapy and swim lessons to environmental education and youth mentorship.

What I saw was more than a series of initiatives. It was a shift led by young people who are learning to care for the ocean and for themselves. Sentinel Ocean Alliance doesn’t just create access; it builds a sense of belonging in the water and confidence.

For me, this was a chance to witness how local action, grounded in trust and consistency, can start to reshape a future.