Coral Rising Launches in the Virgin Islands
Last week, SouthSea Rising launched Coral Rising, our first Virgin Islands program track, in partnership with the Virgin Islands Department of Sports, Parks & Recreation.
Held on July 7 and 8, 2026, the two-day pilot served two separate cohorts of students, introducing each group to agriculture, marine environments, and future career pathways through hands-on experiences across St. Thomas.
Students spent the program learning directly from local farmers, marine professionals, and educators while exploring the connections between land and sea. At We Grow Food Inc., they learned about mango grafting, the different varieties of lemongrass grown in the Virgin Islands, aloe, and how local crops can become value-added products. At the UVI MacLean Marine Science Center, students explored mangroves, coral reefs, marine ecosystems, octopus research, and careers in marine science while walking across Brewers Bay to experience the shoreline from a new perspective.
The program was led by Chloe Camacho and Bradley Arrington of the University of the Virgin Islands Reef Response team, Farmer Thomas and Sister Benita Martin of We Grow Food Inc., SouthSea Rising Founder Quianah Upton, and Youth Coordinator Annesa Gayle.
Throughout the experience, students enjoyed snacks, fresh juices, water, and lunch to keep them hydrated and energized throughout the day. They made new friendships, received SouthSea Rising t-shirts and towels, and safely enjoyed time at Brewers Bay under the guidance of the Department of Sports, Parks & Recreation summer camp counselors. To conclude the program, each student received a Coral Rising Certificate of Completion recognizing their participation and commitment to learning.
SouthSea Rising also presented Youth Impact Recognition Awards to the Virgin Islands Department of Sports, Parks & Recreation, Reef Response, UVI Youth Ocean Explorers, and the University of the Virgin Islands in appreciation of their partnership and commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for Virgin Islands youth. Students celebrated one another’s accomplishments as they received their certificates and applauded each of the organizations that helped bring Coral Rising to life.
Coral Rising was made possible through the partnership and support of the Virgin Islands Department of Sports, Parks & Recreation, We Grow Food Inc., Reef Response, UVI Youth Ocean Explorers, and the UVI MacLean Marine Science Center. We are especially grateful to Commissioner Vincent Robert’s of Department of Sports, Parks & Recreation for providing transportation, funding, and ongoing support that made this pilot possible.
The launch of Coral Rising marks an exciting milestone for SouthSea Rising. Planning for Coral Rising 2027 is already underway as we strengthen existing partnerships, expand programming to St. John, and continue creating hands-on experiences that connect young people with the people, places, and opportunities found throughout the Virgin Islands.
