News24 | South African dive instructor receives 2026 National Geographic Wayfinder Award (opens original article in a new tab)

Silindile 'Mama Sli' Mbuyazi will be honored with the 2026 National Geographic Wayfinder Award for her work in ocean education and conservation, having trained over 150 divers and promoting water safety in her community.

• Silindile 'Mama Sli' Mbuyazi will receive the 2026 National Geographic Wayfinder Award in Washington, DC on 18 June
• Mama Sli teaches water safety and ocean awareness after her brother died by drowning, having trained over 150 divers
• The Wayfinder Award recognizes achievements in science, conservation, education, technology, and storytelling to protect the world's wonders
• Mama Sli works as an ocean filmmaker and leads NEWF Dive Labs to provide dive qualifications for black African storytellers