Seychelles
Commonwealth Point of Light 39. Terence Vel
Terence Vel, representing Seychelles, is the Chair of ‘Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles’, which delivers regular talks and activities for school children in order to raise awareness of environmental issues.
Since joining the organisation in 1994 when it was first established, Terence has worked closely with local government authorities to set up clubs in the majority of schools across Seychelles. The clubs now have over 800 members and each of these young people are given the opportunity to learn about ecosystems, native wildlife, and the environment.
The award for Terence Vel was presented on Monday 26 March, during a Commonwealth Big Lunch based on the CHOGM 2018 theme “A More Sustainable Future”, which was held at the Vallee de Mai by the British High Commission.
Terence said:
“It is with great admiration that I accept the Points of Light Award on behalf of every Seychellois citizen, offered to me by Her Majesty The Queen as the Head of the Commonwealth. This award is a great achievement in my volunteering work with ‘Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles’ and with the community-based organisations, thus promoting conservation action in the Island Paradise Seychelles through environmental education and as a force for positive change.”
Caron Röhsler, UK High Commissioner to Seychelles, said:
“Terence’s love for nature and wildlife conservation, and his passion for sharing that with young Seychellois through the ‘Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles’, is evident in the many young adults I meet here who are environmental activists and volunteers. He and his fellow volunteers made a wonderful investment in the future of Seychelles, and the planet, when they set up these much-loved clubs. I’m delighted that his dedication and commitment has been recognised through this well-deserved award.”
Below, Terence receiving his award from Caron Röhsler, UK High Commissioner to Seychellles
