As part of the #ReconnectinRAA challenge, the general manager and of Human Resources at Cora Cora Maldives Resort covered over 200 kilometers on a SUP board to connect the entire Raa Atoll in an innovative way.
Since March, Cora Cora Maldives Resort has been searching for the ultimate Future Fighter as part of its global sustainability campaign, “The Zen Adventure of a Lifetime.” Participating in the seven-month challenge, which is designed to promote sustainable practices and more environmentally conscious thinking, has already attracted more than 200 potential Future Fighters from around the world. Justin Swart, the resort’s general manager, is also part of this campaign and recently took on his biggest challenge yet: In the #ReconnectinRAA campaign, he and Muiz Mohamed, Director of Human Resources, circumnavigated the entire Raa Atoll in seven days on a stand-up-paddle board. The 221-kilometer route around Cora Cora Maldives’ home atoll took them past 21 islands, including all of the atoll’s inhabited islands and resorts. This endeavor went far beyond a sporting challenge, as #ReconnectinRAA embodied a sustainability campaign that focused on environmental awareness and local culture.
The response to this endeavor was overwhelmingly positive: support from 18 resorts, 15 island governments, 4 environmental organizations and the Maldives Ministry of Tourism has helped #ReconnectinRAA grow from an original idea to a full-fledged movement. Through marine conservation lectures and symposiums hosted by the Atoll Marine Center, Olive Ridley Projects, and Parley for the Oceans Maldives, as well as through cultural performances by the local population, a new passion for conservation and the conservation and the cultural heritage of the atoll. At the same time, a stronger sense of and pride in the atoll has been fostered – #ReconnectinRAA an unprecedented connectedness has been created. The impressive results of Raa Atoll’s largest beach cleanup to date also speak for themselves: a total of 1,224 volunteers cleaned a land area of 101,600 square meters, removing 1,416 kilograms of trash and litter. The outstanding support of all partners once again underscores Cora Cora Maldives Resort’s pioneering role in sustainability and cultural preservation throughout the island nation.
Justin Swart and Muiz Mohamed circle the entire Raa Atoll on a stand-up paddle board as part of the #ReconnectinRAA campaign.
During the closing ceremony, Maldivian Tourism Minister Dr. Abdulla Mausoom acknowledged the immense commitment behind the campaign for a good cause and in line with the Maldives Tourism Master Plan. He emphasized, “The Cora Cora Maldives and Raa Atoll are pioneers in sustainability and cultural preservation in the Maldives. I am delighted that the Cora Cora Maldives has been able to unite the entire Raa Atoll with all the resident resorts, local councils, environmental organizations and local Businesses to unite. I hope that this commitment will continue in the coming years will continue.”
Justin Swart and Muiz Mohamed are equally overwhelmed by the success and impact of the campaign. The resort’s general manager summarizes, “ReconnectinRAA was designed from the beginning to unite people and bring different walks of life together to create a unity. And we have undoubtedly achieved that.” Muiz Mohamed is also proud: “At first, this challenge seemed difficult because of my fear of the sea to be difficult. But once we were outside, the calmness of the sea greatly mitigated our worries and fears. It was a reminder of the beauty we need to protect. We realized that we must bring about the change we want to ensure that our children can enjoy the same paradise we experience today.”
The Zen Adventure of a Lifetime will run until September 23, 2023, before the ultimate Future Fighter is crowned in October. In addition to the title, a dream trip to the Cora Cora Maldives Resort awaits the winner. Further information and participation at: https://sup.star-board.com/zen-adventure-of-a-lifetime/