A love for birds

Nine-year-old Romario Valentine is an active child environmentalist who dreams of becoming a scientist. It all started three years ago when he embarked on a “Save Our Ocean” project, cleaning the beach once a week with his parents.

Three years later, and prior to Covid-19, Romario regularly visited the Umgeni River Bird Park, which inspired him to develop a love for birds, resulting in him painting many of his favourite species. When he heard about the impact of the lockdown on the bird park and other wildlife sanctuaries, Romario created a crowdfunding account on BackABuddy to allow his friends, family, and eco-warrior fans to donate to his campaign in lieu of presents for his birthday back in July. As of August 2020, Romario has raised a staggering R32,121.

The Umgeni River Bird Park curator, Tarryn Bristow, recently invited Romario to the bird park where he was presented with a Certificate of Excellence by the Education and Awareness Programme Co-ordinator, Grant Aggett-Cox. In September this year Romario became the youngest ambassador for Ocean Sole in Kenya. They recycle flip flops found on the beaches and turn them into marine and wildlife art sculptures. They selected Romario because he is an active eco-warrior making a difference to the planet.

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What an inspiration to everyone in our community. Thank you Romario.

FOR MORE INFO: @ArtistRomario; To donate to this cause, go to: www.backabuddy.co.za/romario-valentine