Forbah Sandra Builds a Movement for Ocean Awareness

Written by Prisha Bhagwan Jhamandas (Diverseas Volunteer & Creative Writer) | Interviewed by Brigitta Gunawan (Founder of Diverseas)

Nestled in the in the seaside town of Limbe, Cameroon an enthusiastic environmentalist. Meet Forbah Sandra, a master's student majoring in Disaster Risk Management with a strong desire to safeguard our planet by volunteering as an environmental educator. Her journey from a curious young girl to a passionate advocate for coastal ecosystems is nothing short of remarkable. Among her friends, she’s affectionately known as “Mother Nature.”

Sandra's childhood in Limbe was filled with the beauty of the ocean. However, as she grew older, she became more aware of the degradation of the environment taking place right in front of her. Trash filled beaches, diminishing fish populations, and dying mangroves were all indicators of an approaching catastrophe. But what struck her most was her peers' complete lack of understanding about these concerns. Sandra chose to act rather than stand by.

Her love for nature photography quickly became more than a hobby; it was a lens into the human impact on the environment. This passion led her to study Environmental Sciences and later pursue a master’s in Disaster Risk Management. 

For over four years, Sandra has volunteered as an environmental educator. Her message to young people unsure about the future is simple but powerful: “Identify your passions through the little everyday things that bring you joy,” she says. “Seek out volunteer activities, even if they do not provide immediate financial rewards. The experience and satisfaction you gain are priceless.”

Sandra’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. As Communications Coordinator for the Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOP) Cameroon node, part of the UN Ocean Decade initiative, she fosters collaboration among young professionals dedicated to ocean conservation. She is also actively involved in AVAF Africa’s Voices for Africa’s Forests project, which focuses on empowering women in marginalized forest communities to understand the impact of deforestation and advocate for their rights.

And she’s just getting started.

Sandra is building BRIDGES (Building Resilient Individuals, Developing Generational Environmental Sustainability), a nonprofit that empowers youth and communities through social outreach, mentorship, nature artivism, green entrepreneurship, and partnerships. Motivated by her personal story, she hopes to change the narrative and norms that exist in the field of ocean sciences in her community and the world at large. BRIDGES is her way of raising awareness, inspiring action, and creating a new generation of ocean protectors.

In a time when environmental issues can feel overwhelming, Sandra’s work is a reminder that change often begins at the local level. Through education, advocacy, and quiet determination, she is helping to shape a more informed and resilient generation, one that sees the ocean not just as a resource, but as a shared responsibility.