Cape Town’s much-loved ocean-conservation initiative Save a Fishie marked a major achievement last week; more than 50 tons of litter have been removed from the environment since its inception.
To celebrate, founder Zoë Prinsloo hosted a “mini clean-up” with her loyal group of long-term volunteers, affectionately called her “A-Team”, followed by cake and camaraderie.
A showstopper by Michelle of The Cupcake Tarts, a giant cake topped with a figure of Prinsloo perched on a bright-yellow refuse bag was created.
“It feels surreal to look back and realise that together we’ve collected more than 50 tons of waste,” the proud founder pointed out.
“Every volunteer, sponsor and supporter has played a part in this milestone. I’m especially grateful that my mom, who has been with me from the very beginning, and my boyfriend, Dylan, could share this moment with me. Save a Fishie has always been a team effort, and this milestone belongs to all of us.”
It was marked in true Save a Fishie style, with volunteers braving strong winds for a 30-minute microplastics sweep before tucking into the celebratory cake.
A journey of impact
This isn’t the first time Prinsloo and Save a Fishie made headlines. TygerBurger has followed her journey from its early days, reporting on her awe-inspiring efforts to combat ocean pollution and her rise as one of Cape Town’s most determined young environmentalists.
Her accolades speak for themselves: several community- and youth-leadership awards, and she has become a familiar voice in conversations on sustainability, youth activism and plastic-pollution awareness.
Through school talks, community partnerships and regular clean-ups Save a Fishie has built a reputation as a grassroots movement with national impact.
What began as one teenager’s determination to protect marine life has grown into a network of volunteers who have collectively shifted public awareness around plastic waste.
Looking ahead
Prinsloo is already setting her sights on the next goal.
“Fifty tons is a massive achievement, but it’s just the beginning,” she said. “Our aim now is to reach 75 tons within the next two years; and we know with the support of our community, we’ll get there.”
With plans for future clean-ups, school outreach programmes and her signature blend of passion and positivity, Prinsloo continues to inspire. She said: “Protecting our oceans isn’t something we do once-off; it’s an everyday commitment. Every piece of litter picked up is a step towards a cleaner, safer future for marine life.”
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