Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis announced the names of exceptional Capetonians who will be honoured for their contribution to society – and local environmentalist, Zoë Prinsloo is right on top with the rest.
A formal ceremony will be held in Cape Town to honour Prinsloo and the others for their contributions. It has been 12 years since the Civic Honours Award was last presented.
Prinsloo, hailing from Edgemead and who does regular clean-ups at the Milnerton Lagoon, says she is overjoyed and deeply honoured to receive the award.
She is one of only eight people who will receive the Mayor’s Medal (Prinsloo’s for conservation) at a special council meeting ceremony on 6 December.
Since the age of 10 she has been passionately dedicated to cleaning and preserving beaches as an environmental activist.
“Together with incredible volunteers and like-minded individuals, we have cleaned over 230 beaches, removing nearly 16 tons of plastic and debris that harm our precious marine ecosystems. This award is not just a recognition of my work, but a testament to the power of collective action and our shared commitment to protect our environment.”
Gratitude
She says she is grateful to the mayor for acknowledging the importance of environmental preservation. “It is truly humbling to receive this recognition.”
Prinsloo says the award is thanks to her family who instilled the values of compassion and responsibility towards our planet. Their unwavering support has been fundamental in nurturing her passion for environmental activism.
“To my amazing mommy who has walked this journey with me every step of the way… literally, I cannot thank you enough.
“I would also like to extend my deepest thanks to my friends and fellow activists who have stood by my side, tirelessly joining me on countless beach clean-up campaigns.”
But her gratitude extends far beyond her immediate circle.
“To my Girl Guide family who helped foster my love for community service, please know that your contribution has been invaluable. Together, we are making a lasting impact and creating a sustainable future for generations to come.”
She says this award serves as a reminder that it is not the end of her journey, but rather a reminder of the urgent need for greater environmental awareness and action.
“Our oceans and coastlines are facing unprecedented challenges, and it is up to us to be the catalysts for change.
“I want to encourage each and every one of you to join me in this mission. Together, we can safeguard our planet’s natural beauty and protect it for future generations.
“Let’s continue to inspire and empower others to take up the mantle of environmental stewardship.
“Let’s continue making waves for a cleaner and greener world,” she says.
