Storytelling and strong imagery have the powerful ability to save the planet and to create awareness. This Earth Month, Contiki invited 12 different young storytellers, including social influencers, photographers and filmmakers from around the world, to participate in an epic journey of conservation and adventure in bio-diverse Costa Rica.
This was surely an eye-opening excursion for the storytellers. Working with The Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC) as part of the Contiki Cares ocean conservation program, the group of colourful and connected storytellers had the rare opportunity to travel alongside the earth’s ultimate storyteller – Contiki’s sustainability partner Céline Cousteau, a documentary filmmaker, environmental activist and granddaughter of Jacques Cousteau.
As the oldest sea turtle organization in the world, the Sea Turtle Conservancy has been instrumental in saving sea turtles from extinction through their extensive research in Central America and the Caribbean. Contiki’s storytellers took to Tortuguero Beach for two nights to assist in the tracking process of the turtles and were lucky enough to witness the incredible nesting process of two leatherback turtles.
Vancouver’s own Mirae Campbell was chosen as one of three photo winners in a global contest held by Contiki and Matador Network in February and joined Contiki’s Storytellers and Céline Coutsteau and left with a strong commitment to conservation initiatives in her own community and around the world.
“Working alongside the conservation team in Tortugeuro and being fortunate enough to see a leatherback turtle nest was the most surreal and extraordinary experience of my life, since I was so oblivious to how hard small groups of people work to conserve our coastlines and ocean wildlife,” said Mirae.
For the remainder of Earth Month until May 30th, young travellers with strong stories to tell can enter to win a trip to Costa Rica to follow in the footsteps of these storytellers. The winner will be able to weave their own story of conservation and adventure as they hike through the cloudforest in Monte Verde to spot monkeys and toucans, zipline above the treetops in Sarapiqui and refresh themselves with a picturesque swim at the secluded La Fortuna waterfall, plus more. If you’ve ever wanted to explore the lush Central American forests and jungles, now is the time.
All you have to do is express what the ocean means to you via Instagram. For us 360-degree-living young professionals, this could mean anything from catching that killer wave for the surf of your life, to exploring underwater shipwrecks and creatures, to watching a romantically magnificent sunset from a beach blanket or terrace. For some, it could even mean champagne on a yacht. Whatever the case, it is time to get creative in your love for the ocean. After this winter, Costa Rica sounds ever so appealing.
For more information, head to contiki.com/storytellers and view this video to enter.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
Cover image from: Flipkey.com
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