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Reflecting on Ocean Sole's Impact in 2024

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Updated: Jan 30

Introduction

As we reflect on the progress made in 2024, it's clear that at Ocean Sole we have not only continued our mission but also expanded our impact in remarkable ways. From recycling thousands of flip-flops into a vast array of sculptures and masterpieces, to engaging communities in conservation efforts, every step we've taken has been towards a healthier planet and empowered communities.


Our Ocean Sole Mamaz after a beach clean on Bofa Beach, Kilifi, Kenya, 2024.
Our Ocean Sole Mamaz after a beach clean on Bofa Beach, Kilifi, Kenya, 2024.

Conservation Efforts

This year, we reached a significant milestone by recycling 46,800 kilograms of flip-flops, equivalent to 468,000 Flip Flops, collected from beaches and waterways, transforming them into vibrant art pieces and functional products. Our commitment to conservation also saw us engage in 35 beach clean-ups, covering 42.6 kilometers of coastline, where we removed over 5 tonnes of waste just in 2024 alone, ensuring cleaner habitats for marine life.


Our Ocean Sole Mamaz at a sunrise beach clean, just after saying Hi to one of our Turtle Rangers finishing his patrol.
Our Ocean Sole Mamaz at a sunrise beach clean, just after saying Hi to one of our Turtle Rangers finishing his patrol.
Ocean Sole Mama enjoying cleaning our beaches.
Ocean Sole Mama enjoying cleaning our beaches.

Our mangrove planting initiatives thrived with the planting of over 15,130 mangrove seedlings. These efforts are crucial for coastal protection and biodiversity preservation. In marine life conservation, our Turtle Watch Project successfully monitored seven turtle nests, with one nest achieving a 76% hatchling success rate, showcasing our dedication to marine biodiversity.


Mangrove seedlings ready to be planted.
Mangrove seedlings ready to be planted.
Our Turtle Rangers with hatchlings ready to protect our Turtles from poachers, and other offending creatures.
Our Turtle Rangers with hatchlings ready to protect our Turtles from poachers, and other offending creatures.
Counting turtle eggs during our Turtle Watch program.
Counting turtle eggs during our Turtle Watch program.

Education Initiatives

In 2024, Ocean Sole significantly advanced its educational outreach, touching the lives of 2,941 students across 67 schools. Our expanded tour program introduced tailored educational activities that catered to older student groups, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues and conservation practices.


Kilifi Primary students after a beach clean and marine conservation session with Ocean Sole, 2024.
Kilifi Primary students after a beach clean and marine conservation session with Ocean Sole, 2024.

We also launched the Ocean Sole Conservation Educational Toolkit for children aged 5-9. This toolkit, consisting of engaging PowerPoint presentations, fun-filled printed booklets, and comprehensive tutor guides, has become an invaluable resource in nurturing young environmental stewards.


Community Empowerment

Our community initiatives have seen remarkable growth this year. The Ocean Sole Mamaz, who now manage our newly started community garden, have benefited from the Plastics and Livelihood Project, turning collected waste into a source of income. This project not only supports environmental conservation but also provides economic opportunities to marginalized communities.


Our Ocean Mamaz at the community garden we have been growing over the last few months.
Our Ocean Mamaz at the community garden we have been growing over the last few months.


EcoWorld Watamu collecting the bottles and plastics they buy off our Ocean Sole Mamaz, 100% of which goes to them.

The first Art 4 Oceans Festival was a resounding success, bringing together local artists and community members to create art from up-cycled materials. This event highlighted the creative ways in which recycled materials can be transformed, promoting both art and environmental sustainability.


Conclusion

As we reflect on 2024, Ocean Sole remains steadfast in its mission to protect our oceans, uplift communities, and drive meaningful change. Through our upcycled art, we have not only removed thousands of discarded flip-flops from the environment but also created sustainable employment, expanded conservation initiatives, and strengthened community resilience.


This year, we deepened our impact through the SoleMate Foundation, funding marine conservation, food security initiatives, and environmental education. Meanwhile, our commitment to fair wages, welfare programs, and employment opportunities continues to transform lives.


None of this would be possible without the incredible dedication of our artisans, conservation teams, Ocean Mamaz, turtle rangers, and community partners. To our supporters, customers, donors, and global family—thank you. Your belief in our mission fuels our work, and together, we are making a real difference. We look forward to another year of impact, innovation, and shared purpose.

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