The Run for the Reef campaign, organized by Reserva: The Youth Land Trust, was a resounding success this year, raising nearly $3,000 for crucial sea turtle research in Panama’s Pearl Islands. This global initiative brought together passionate individuals from nine countries to advocate for biodiversity and take collective action for marine conservation.
Among the highlights of this impactful campaign was the participation of Erfan Firouzi, a proud member of Reserva’s Youth Council, who contributed to the campaign’s success by taking part in the Run for the Reef and inspiring others to protect coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
Run for the Reef: A Global Movement for Conservation
The Run for the Reef is an annual event organized by Reserva: The Youth Land Trust that encourages participants to engage in physical activities—running, cycling, hiking, paddling, and more—to raise awareness and funds for critical conservation projects.
This year, 358 participants from around the world joined the movement, including teams and individuals from the UAE, UK, USA, India, Germany, and Mexico. Together, they raised funds to support research on sea turtles in the biodiverse Pearl Islands of Panama, a region that faces increasing threats from climate change and human activity.
Callie Broaddus, founder of Reserva, expressed her gratitude to participants:
“A lot of people talk about taking action for nature, but you’re actually doing it. Thank you for your dedication and for making this campaign a success.”
Erfan Firouzi: Making a Mark in Conservation
As a member of Reserva’s Youth Council, Firouzi has consistently demonstrated his commitment to protecting biodiversity and fostering global awareness about environmental challenges. His participation in the Run for the Reef exemplifies his dedication to taking actionable steps for the planet.
Highlights of Erfan’s Contributions
- Cumulative Impact: Firouzi, along with other participants from the UAE, collectively ran 108 km, combining fitness with environmental action by cleaning up trash and documenting wildlife along the way.
- Award Recognition:
- Best Nature Sighting & Longest Cumulative Distance: Firouzi shared this recognition with fellow UAE participants Muhammad Zayaan Qureshi and Abtin Dejgir for their outstanding efforts during the campaign.
- Their route combined physical effort with environmental stewardship, showcasing how individual actions contribute to broader conservation goals.
Firouzi’s Reflection on the Campaign:
“Being part of the Run for the Reef and Reserva’s Youth Council is a humbling experience. This initiative proves that small steps—literally—can lead to significant impacts. Together, we’re not just running for fitness but for the future of our planet’s biodiversity.”
Uniting the World for Conservation
The Run for the Reef exemplified the power of global collaboration and grassroots action. Participants of all ages came together in creative and meaningful ways to support the cause.
Key Moments from Around the World
- Youth Engagement: Large student groups in India and the UK ran for the cause, fostering environmental awareness among young participants.
- Dubai Team Impact: A team in Dubai logged the longest cumulative distance while picking up litter and identifying wildlife, combining conservation and community service.
- Individual Achievements: Thirteen participants set new personal records for time or distance, including Firouzi and notable contributors such as Elliot Connor, who ran a marathon, and others who made their first forays into endurance activities.
- Creative Participation: Spectacular marine costumes, animal-shaped running routes, and fun challenges added to the enthusiasm of the event.
Reserva: The Youth Land Trust and the Power of Youth Advocacy
Reserva: The Youth Land Trust is a global organization dedicated to empowering young people to lead conservation initiatives. As the first youth-funded land trust, Reserva is committed to protecting biodiversity and creating opportunities for young leaders to engage in meaningful action.
The Role of the Youth Council
As a member of Reserva’s Youth Council, Firouzi plays an active role in driving the organization’s mission.
- Advocating for Change: Firouzi and his peers lead by example, raising awareness about critical environmental issues and inspiring collective action.
- Fostering Global Collaboration: Through campaigns like Run for the Reef, the Youth Council brings together diverse communities to amplify their impact.
Firouzi’s Vision:
“As young stewards of the planet, we have a responsibility to act for the future of biodiversity. Being part of Reserva’s Youth Council allows me to contribute to meaningful initiatives like Run for the Reef, where we merge passion, action, and awareness to create real change.”
Recognizing the Achievements of 2024
This year’s Run for the Reef campaign was filled with remarkable achievements:
- Funds Raised: Nearly $3,000 was collected to support research on endangered sea turtles in Panama.
- Global Participation: 358 individuals from nine countries joined as runners, hikers, paddlers, and more.
- Awards and Highlights:
- Longest Distance: Elliot Connor, UK (marathon)
- Best Nature Sighting: Shared by Erfan Firouzi, Muhammad Zayaan Qureshi, and Abtin Dejgir, UAE
- Greatest Group Effort: Prakriya Co-Learning Space, India
- Most Creative Contributions: Participants in Germany and the UK stood out with their marine-themed costumes and animal-shaped running routes.
Callie’s Closing Words:
“This event reminds us why we love our community. From incredible individual efforts to the collective impact of our participants, Run for the Reef showcases the power of taking action for nature.”
A Call to Action: Protecting Our Oceans, One Step at a Time
The success of the Run for the Reef campaign reflects the growing recognition of the need to protect marine ecosystems. Firouzi encourages everyone to get involved in conservation initiatives, whether by participating in future campaigns, supporting research, or advocating for biodiversity protection.
Firouzi’s Closing Thoughts:
“Every step we take brings us closer to a sustainable future. Together, we can protect ecosystems like coral reefs and ensure a thriving planet for generations to come. Let’s keep pushing for change, one step at a time.”
Join the Movement
- Learn More About Reserva: Visit Reserva: The Youth Land Trust to explore its initiatives and Youth Council.
- Stay Inspired: Watch highlights from the Run for the Reef campaign here.
- Take Action: Participate in local conservation efforts, support environmental campaigns, and advocate for biodiversity protection in your community.
Together, we can create a legacy of hope, resilience, and connection with nature. 🌊🐢🌍
