Innovative Pop Up Radio Show Hits the Airwaves

Ocean FM, an innovative pop up radio show, hits the airwaves today, 29 June 2025 at 12h00 in celebration of Youth Day earlier this month. Presented by learners from the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Ocean Campus, Ocean FM is brought to listeners by Primedia Cares and CapeTalk as part of a partnership with the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation.

“At Primedia Cares, we believe in the power of youth to drive meaningful change. Ocean FM is more than just a pop-up channel — it’s a platform that amplifies young voices and inspires ocean stewardship. By partnering with the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, we’re helping future leaders dive into their passions and bring critical marine conversations to the surface.” says head of Primedia Cares, Trish Taylor.

Learners, Malaika Magaya and Lisakhanya Cokoyi, will host a jam-packed three-hour show, exploring ocean topics and interviewing specialists in ocean related careers. Guests include Dr Ragoasha, a physical oceanographer, who will discuss ocean currents, threats to ocean health, and career pathways. Veterinary Animal Rehabilitation Practitioner Lorren Barham will share insights on caring for sick marine animals. The role of tourism in ocean conservation education cannot be discounted, as we hear from Anthea Meyer of Hout Bay Ocean Safari.

Cokoyi reflects, “Sitting in front of a radio mic for the first time was nerve-racking, but talking to experts in a field I want to work in made it an unforgettable experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.”

Magaya and Cokoyi were selected from 25 students who auditioned with two-minute video clips. Magaya, a Grade 10 at Melkbosstrand High School, Cape Town, completed the Ocean Campus Young Biologist Course in 2024 and now studies Marine Sciences as a school subject to prepare for a future career, possibly in Maritime Law, focusing on marine policy and conservation.

“I love the ocean because it provides a sense of calmness and wonder,” Magaya says. “The ocean’s complexity and diversity drive me to learn more about the marine world and its inhabitants.” 

Cokoyi, also in Grade 10 at Groote Schuur High School, chose Marine Sciences as a school subject in the hopes of entering an ocean-related career. As part of the Marine Sciences curriculum, she visited the Two Oceans Aquarium classrooms for the Introduction to Marine Sciences course.

“When I went for my first visit to the Aquarium in Grade 8, I was completely enamoured by the teeming biodiversity in our ocean and its ability to foster so many diverse ecosystems. From that moment on I knew that I wanted to do something with atmospheric sciences and oceanography when I am older” says Cokoyi.

Global conservation of the ocean

The launch of Ocean FM coincides with renewed global ocean conservation efforts, including David Attenborough’s film Ocean and the recent United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, which highlight the ocean’s critical role in climate balance, oxygen production, and carbon absorption.

Youth engagement is vital to turning talk and policy into action. By providing a platform for young ocean advocates to learn from experts, and influence positive change for marine environments, Ocean FM contributes to building a sustainable future.

“The ocean’s vastness reflects the potential of young people – full of possibilities and promise,” says Magaya. “Hosting this show has been an incredible experience! I’m passionate about the ocean and love sharing that with others. It’s amazing to see first-hand how much people care about marine life and conservation,” she continues.

Ocean Campus, encompassing the Foundation’s education programmes from early childhood to adult learning, aims to expand marine education across South Africa and the continent. It nurtures future ocean advocates through curriculum development and hands-on experiences, supporting initiatives like Ocean FM.

“Many young people who have come through our programmes have become scientists, educators, and conservationists, thanks to generous support from donors,” says Deputy Head of Ocean Campus, Bianca Engel.

“The introduction of Marine Sciences as a school subject has broadened career opportunities in marine fields.”

South Africa’s youth, represented by Cokoyi and Magaya, are embracing these opportunities to get involved and ensure a healthy ocean for their future, protecting the ocean for generations to come.

Tune in to Prime Media Plus on Sunday 29 June 2025 at 12h00 to catch Ocean FM online at www.primediaplus.com. Keep your eyes on Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation and Primedia socials for more details.