As the Grants Coordinator, this trip was an out-of-this-world experience for me, truly unforgettable. I had never been to Region 1 before, and from the moment we landed in Mabaruma to the final boat ride back, I was completely and utterly mesmerised. The landscape, the calm rhythm of the coast, and the raw beauty of Shell Beach were unlike anything I had ever experienced. 

We were lucky to visit at the peak of turtle nesting season, and I will never forget the moments of guiding the hatchlings safely to the sea. Watching them shuffle across the sand with their tiny flippers and disappear into the waves as they began their new journey in life was deeply moving. There is something incredibly humbling about being a part of the process that has been happening for centuries, one that connects you both with nature and time. We hope our efforts are reflected in centuries to come. 

What struck me just as deeply was the silence. True, untouched silence. Living in the city, you do not realise how much noise you are constantly surrounded by. At Shell Beach it all fades away. The stillness isn’t empty; it is full of life. You hear the wind moving through the trees, the waves meeting the shore, and the distant call of birds. That silence gave me a sense of peace, a feeling I did not know that I needed. It was grounding in a way that is hard to describe.

But what truly made the trip special were the people. The Rangers welcomed us like family. Their warmth, generosity, and deep-rooted connection to the land made it feel like home.  Whether we were taking walks on the beach or learning about their day-to-day challenges and victories, every moment was filled with meaning. Their dedication reminded me why our work at PAT matters, and how important it is to support the people on the frontlines.

This trip wasn’t just a site visit; it was a reminder of what we’re working toward and who we’re working with. I returned with a heart full of gratitude, a quiet mind, and a renewed commitment to ensuring our grants truly empower and uplift those doing the work where it counts the most. 

• Nikkita Greene
  • Grants Coordinator
  • Connect on LinkedIn