Mauritian Activist, 27, Champions Reconnection with Nature for a Resilient Future

Krishna Pentayah, a rising voice in environmental activism across the Indian Ocean, is leading a movement to restore humanity’s broken bond with nature. His NGO, Sov Lanatir, has mobilised over 600 active members and engaged 60,000 young people in Mauritius and beyond to tackle ecological crises through science, culture, and ancestral wisdom.

Pentayah’s journey into activism was sparked by the 2020 Wakashio oil spill, which devastated Mauritius’ protected lagoons. “Seeing our lagoon polluted broke me—but it also woke me up,” he told reporters. “We needed a strong, collective, youth-led response.”

Turning Brain Drain into Brain Power

Rather than losing talent to emigration, Sov Lanatir harnesses the skills of young scientists, artists, and activists to drive ecological restoration. Their flagship initiative, a National Mangrove Regeneration Project, has enlisted 5,000 youths, 2,000 students, and 30 local fishermen—paying them for their traditional knowledge.

A Global Stage for Island Solutions

Recently representing Mauritius as a United Nations Youth Ambassador, Pentayah challenged bureaucratic approaches to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), urging instead for “living, practical solutions.” His organisation’s work spans marine science, social justice, and indigenous knowledge—all led by young experts.

Mauritius on the Frontlines of Climate Crisis

The island nation faces severe threats: rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and up to 80% coral bleaching by 2024. Sov Lanatir combats these through hands-on restoration, climate diplomacy, and environmental education via their Lékol dan Lanatir programme.

Long-Term Vision Amidst Challenges

Pentayah’s ambitions extend beyond Mauritius—he advocates for protecting Diego Garcia’s seagrass meadows (among the world’s largest) and sustainably managing the nation’s vast exclusive economic zone. Yet barriers persist: “Nepotism, red tape, and a lack of intergenerational trust,” he notes, calling for national youth funds and real advisory roles for young leaders.

A Message for International Youth Day

As the world marks International Youth Day (12 August) under the theme “Sustainable Development,” Pentayah’s rallying cry is clear: “No matter where you come from—I’m from a small village—you can be the change. Believe in your mission, even if no one else does.”

Source: Defi Media