Manta rays are beautiful and majestic animals that have a life-changing effect on people who meet them. I want to protect them so humans can experience their transformational power for generations to come! My goal is to inspire people so they take action to protect the mantas' ecosystem and oceans all around the world.
Lessons from the mantas (and a challenge for 2026)
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As we enter 2026, I find myself reflecting on what motivates me after years of working with the manta rays. It’s not only the thrill of encountering the gentle giants underwater - which never loses its magic - but also the realization that people like you genuinely care. It’s inspiring to see that care translates into meaningful action. We can’t do everything, and none of us can be held responsible for the state of the world, but we can all take action in our own way. For me, that action is advocating for manta rays and, more recently, giving others a voice through the Ocean Wings podcast. But, the world requires more than just basic measures, which is why I support ocean conservation organizations that I genuinely believe in. Each year, I update my list of favorite charities on my website, based on what I've learned about them throughout the year. Here are five outstanding groups dedicated to protecting marine life, cleaning up ocean debris, saving coral reefs, and creating sustainable solutions for coastal communities. My challenge to you for 2026: pick ONE cause that speaks to your heart 💙. This could be anything from protecting mantas, sea turtles, or whale sharks to tackling plastic pollution. Find an organization that aligns with your values and support them. Even a contribution of $10 a month can make a difference. Following their social media accounts and sharing their posts helps spread awareness. Telling your friends about them will also help reach a broader audience.
Jacques-Yves Cousteau is right "We only protect what we love,... " and spreading that love is how we turn the tide. Wishing you a year full of purpose and connection to the ocean.
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Martina Wing
Manta rays are beautiful and majestic animals that have a life-changing effect on people who meet them. I want to protect them so humans can experience their transformational power for generations to come! My goal is to inspire people so they take action to protect the mantas' ecosystem and oceans all around the world.
Aloha Reader, So many kids say they want to work with animals when they grow up, but most end up doing something completely different. Our newest crew member, Ashley Jacob, didn't. At 12, she watched a movie about a dolphin with a prosthetic tail and decided she wanted to work with marine life in rescue and rehabilitation. Today, she's a swim guide at Manta Ray Advocates while finishing her master's thesis and training students in California to continue the elephant seal research she began....
Aloha Reader, For 27 years now (and counting), I have witnessed people from all walks of life as they meet the Kona manta rays in their natural habitat. The swim can be surprising and, for many, even transformational, and afterwards, at the beach shack, it often leads to deep conversations about life, our planet, and the relationship between humans and nature. For a long time, I've been looking for a way to share these stories - and now it's happening: today, I'm releasing the first 3 + 1...
Aloha Reader, I am overjoyed to share the news with you: During the CITES conference, 185 countries voted to give sharks and rays the highest possible international trade protections. Per WCS Newsroom: All CITES shark and ray proposals pass – marking the most comprehensive advance in global shark conservation in CITES history. YES. 🤩🤩 FINALLY! 🥳🥳 12 years ago (June 2013), eight species of sharks and both manta ray species were included in CITES Appendix II, but it was not enough protection....