The Prince of Wales celebrates our volunteers
On Tuesday 25th November, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales joined us in Colwyn Bay, North Wales, to meet the people who make our work possible: our volunteers and young conservationists.
The Prince was welcomed by Gareth Cunningham, our Director of Conservation and Policy, before taking a beach stroll with members of our Youth Ocean Network. Together, they shared a collaborative piece of artwork which symbolises the creativity and passion that drives our community.
The Youth Ocean Network showing Prince William their beautiful artwork which reads "You are not a drop in the ocean, you are the entire ocean in a drop" -Rumi."
Credit: Ryan Jenkinson / Kensington Palace
Volunteers leading the way
The visit shone a well-deserved spotlight on our Hiraeth Yn Y Môr (HYYM) project, which had been working with coastal communities in Prestatyn, Rhyl, Kinmel Bay, and Towyn to increase ocean literacy and celebrate local marine heritage.
Prince William meeting Charlotte from the HYYM project
Credit: Ryan Jenkinson / Kensington Palace
Natalie Lewis, a dedicated HYYM volunteer, described the experience as “truly amazing” and spoke passionately about the importance of protecting habitats such as the Little Tern colony at Gronant Sands; the only breeding colony along the North Wales coast.
Staff and volunteers meeting Prince William
Credit: Ryan Jenkinson / Kensington Palace
The Power of Volunteering
Natalie’s words capture what volunteering for the ocean means to so many:
Volunteering with the Marine Conservation Society has had a such positive impact on my life. I never thought it would also lead me to talking about the environment to royalty. Thank you, Marine Conservation Society, for this wonderful opportunity!
Natalie Lewis, HYYM project volunteer
Her words are a reminder that volunteering is more than giving time. It’s also about building connections, creating opportunities, and inspiring change.
Volunteers make up the heart of our work too. Their passion and commitment ensure that our oceans remain a source of life, inspiration, and belonging for generations to come.
Every beach cleaned, every conversation sparked, and every project delivered is thanks to the dedication of volunteers who believe in a healthier, more sustainable future for our seas.
A Legacy of Environmental Leadership
The visit also echoed the longstanding environmental leadership of our Patron, His Majesty King Charles III. His commitment to conservation continues to inspire us as we work with partners across Wales and the UK to build ocean literacy, champion coastal heritage, and support the next generation of ocean advocates.
