By Muntaziyah Jimale, Somali
Growing up in both New Zealand and Australia provided me with a childhood filled with adventures and fond memories by the sea. The stunning coastal landscapes, pristine beaches in middle of the Pacific Ocean, and endless possibilities for exploration shaped my deep connection to the ocean and the maritime world.
As a young child growing up near Lyall Bay Beach in Wellington, New Zealand, my days were filled with the sights and sounds of the ocean. Each morning, I would eagerly await the arrival of the school bus, which would drop me off near the sandy shores of the beach. The salty sea breeze would greet me as I stepped off the bus, signaling the start of another exciting day by the ocean. I was always captivated by the beauty and tranquility of the sea.
The sound of the waves crashing against the shore, the salty breeze in the air, and the endless expanse of the ocean stirred a sense of wonder and curiosity within me. Each day spent by the water’s edge was a new opportunity for discovery and joy.
One of my most cherished childhood memories is of playing in the golden sands of Lyall Bay Beach, building sandcastles, and chasing the waves as they rolled in and out. The beach became a sanctuary for me, a place where I could escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse myself in the soothing embrace of nature.
My family’s move to Australia only deepened my love for the ocean. The beaches of Australia, with their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, offered new adventures and experiences that further enriched my connection to the natural world.
Till this day, whenever I have the chance, I make it a point to visit our nearby Williamstown Beach, which holds a special place in my heart. The familiar sights and sounds of the beach evoke memories of my carefree days at Lyall Bay Beach, rekindling a sense of nostalgia and joy. Walking along the sandy shore, listening to the seagulls cry overhead, and feeling the sun’s warmth on my skin, I am transported back to a time of innocence and wonder.
The ocean, with all its beauty and mystery, has been a constant companion throughout my life, shaping my experiences and influencing my choices. From the shores of Lyall Bay Beach to the sands of Williamstown Beach to now being the Senior of Advisor on Maritime Affairs and Blue Economy at the President Office leading this portfolio of two teams of administrations in Somalia, the sea has been a source of inspiration, solace, and endless wonder, reminding me of the boundless possibilities that lie beyond the horizon.
My late uncle, a captain of cargo ships, played a significant role in shaping my love for the ocean and maritime world. His stories of seafaring adventures and his dedication to navigation inspired me to pursue a career as a maritime legal expert. As a child, I would sneak into his study to steal glimpses of his navigational maps and charts, fueling my fascination with the maritime world and instilling in me a deep respect for the laws that govern the oceans.
His legacy lives on in my work, guiding me to advocate for sustainable practices, protect marine ecosystems, and uphold the rights of those who rely on the sea for their livelihoods.
From the vast expanse of the ocean to the intricate details of navigational charts, my journey has been intertwined with the ebb and flow of the tides. Each wave that crashes against the shore carries with it a reminder of the beauty, power, and resilience of the ocean – a timeless source of inspiration that continues to shape my life and my connection to the maritime world.
“Journeys to the Sea” is a new series of inspiring stories that highlight the personal connections of marine professionals with the ocean. As a follow up to World Oceans Day on June 8th, WIOMSA is excited to launch a three-month-long celebration dedicated to the ocean. The series will feature 34 unique stories from across the Western Indian Ocean region. These stories will share firsthand accounts of ocean-related experiences, reflections, and narratives from participants who have been part of the Sida-funded International Training Programme on marine spatial planning, “Planning for a Sustainable Blue Future in the Western Indian Ocean”. The stories have been part of the Ocean Storytelling component of the workshop, led by Dr Mia Strand, Nelson Mandela University. Read the collection of stories here.
Feature photo: © Katerina Katopis/Ocean Image Bank
