They are divers, photographers, or simply enthusiasts, and they all share a common ambition: to reveal the beauty and fragility of the underwater world to better preserve it. Through their festivals dedicated to underwater images and films, Pauline, Patrick, and Yann work each year to raise awareness among as many people as possible. Discover the motivations and commitments of these volunteer organizers who make the sea shine among the young and the not-so-young.
Photo: Yann Valton.
The magic of discovery for younger generations
“In the darkness, when the underwater films start projecting, the cries of surprise and joy from the children are our greatest reward,” confides Pauline de Coulon, director of Festisub in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. In March 2019, the festival welcomed 400 children during a morning screening that filled the house. For the volunteers who work all year to organize the event, seeing the magic work in the eyes of the youngest is a true success. This instant wonder leaves a lasting impression and plants the seed of respect for the marine environment.
Photo: Hamda Kort.
For his part, Yann Valton, president of the Galathéa festival in Hyères (Var), insists: “Our educational role is the foundation of the festival. Our goal is to raise awareness so that the public feels concerned and wants to protect. Children, with fewer certainties than adults, are more receptive and express their enthusiasm freely.” He recalls the exhilarating noise of 400 schoolchildren during the first edition in 2016: “Their contagious energy carried us through the whole day!”
Photo: Valérie Valton.
Galathéa, a festival serving schools
Le the international marine world festival of Hyères dedicates two of its four days exclusively to welcoming primary and secondary school classes. Students attend screenings, specially designed conferences for them, discover exhibitions, and visit association stands. Teachers even run a drawing contest, and the winners are honored each year. In 2019, Galathéa welcomed no less than 1,200 students: a promising success to sustainably raise future citizens’ awareness of marine protection.
Photo: Yann Valton.
Yann Valton also wishes to go even further and support schools throughout the year in their discovery of the ocean.
Festivals driven by passion, not profession
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