As the threats facing our oceans grow more urgent, ranging from plastic pollution to climate change, WAVEZ 2025 emerges as a youth-led call to action. Organized for the first time by AIESEC in University of Kelaniya, this impactful initiative brings together an Awareness Walk and a Beach Cleanup at Wellawatte Beach on July 20, 2025, with a powerful goal: to protect marine life and raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation.
The event aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 13: Climate Action and Goal 14: Life Below Water. With over 150 volunteers expected to participate, including global youth volunteers, university students, school students, and members of the general public, WAVEZ 2025 aims to be a dynamic display of environmental responsibility and youth engagement.
The day will begin at 8:00 AM with an Awareness Walk starting near St. Peter’s College, Colombo 04, continuing up to Wellawatte Beach. Global and local volunteers will walk together, raising awareness of the importance of ocean protection and the urgent need for action. The walk will serve as a public demonstration of youth voices calling for change.
Following the walk, all participants will engage in a beach cleanup along the Wellawatte shoreline. To ensure the cleanup is conducted safely and effectively, The Pearl Protectors will conduct a training session on proper beach cleaning techniques and environmental best practices. Adding further depth to the initiative, the #TrackTheTrash Challenge by Climate Intelligence Network will also be integrated into the event. This citizen-powered campaign not only promotes cleanups but also encourages waste and brand audits creative social media storytelling, and data-driven environmental advocacy. It addresses key challenges such as the lack of long-term impact from traditional cleanups and the absence of brand accountability by providing tools and structure for real-time reporting and awareness.
Moreover, Neptune Recyclers joins as the official Recycling Partner for WAVEZ 2025. They will be responsible for collecting the waste gathered during the cleanup and will issue an official certificate confirming the amount of waste collected, adding a layer of accountability and measurable impact to the initiative.
Engaging youth in environmental action is one of the most powerful tools for change. Not only does it build a sense of responsibility and leadership in young individuals, but it also ensures that future generations are informed, active, and committed to sustainability. Through WAVEZ 2025, youth are not just participants; they are change-makers, advocates, and environmental leaders.
The event is sponsored by Alliance Finance Company PLC, Aroma Bliss Ceylon, and Freelan Enterprises (Pvt) Ltd, whose support has helped scale the event to reach wider audiences and enhance its impact.
With the motto “Leaving footprints but with impact,” WAVEZ 2025 is designed to empower youth and the public to take environmental action seriously. The ocean is a vital life source- regulating climate, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining millions of livelihoods. Protecting it is not just an option, it’s a responsibility. Events like WAVEZ highlight how youth-led movements can ignite lasting change through awareness, collective effort, and meaningful partnerships.
The public is warmly invited to join the Awareness Walk and Beach Cleanup on July 20, 2025, at Wellawatte Beach. Whether as a volunteer, advocate, or supporter, your presence will contribute to a cleaner ocean and a stronger community voice for environmental protection.
For more information, please reach out:
FLEMIN FERNANDO
LOCAL COMMITTEE VICE PRESIDENT
EwA & PUBLIC RELATIONS
AIESEC IN UNIVERSITY OF KELANIYA
