Sharona Shnayder

Sharona Shnayder is a Nigerian/Israeli climate and peace activist, National Geographic Young Explorer, and founder of the global grassroots movement Tuesdays for Trash-tackling the garbage crisis facing our planet. As an official Darwin200 Leader, Sharona is recognized for her exceptional ability to weave stories and mobilize impactful communities. In 2020, faced with the overwhelming challenge of the climate crisis, she transformed her fear into a source of action, launching a movement that has since brought people from 60+ countries together to remove over 100,000 pounds of litter from our environment in 6/7 continents.

Sharona’s approach is grounded in the belief that the world we share is more than just physical space—it’s a language. One that transcends borders and has the potential to bring the world together in ways we’ve been taught to forget. This idea is at the heart of her work, and she has harnessed storytelling to amplify the voices of those making a difference. It is also why she co-wrote Journey to Away, a children's book helping the next generation turn waste into action and hope.

LOCATION:	Cape Town	AREA OF STUDY:	Invasive carps
NATIONALITY:	Nigerian/Israeli	SPONSOR:
FILMMAKER:	Devin Troll

START DATE:	27th August
END DATE:	2nd September
LOCATION:	Cape Town
END POINT:	Nigerian/Israeli

AREA OF STUDY:	Invasive carps
SPONSOR:
FILMMAKER:	Devin Troll

Area of Study: Battling Carp Invasion

Nestled in South Africa’s Goukamma Nature Reserve, Groenvlei—a freshwater lake rich in cultural significance and home to endangered native species—has been under siege by the invasive common carp for decades. What began as a silent ecological imbalance has transformed into a bold, community-driven effort to restore harmony to the lake and its ecosystem.

Set against the struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic, when food insecurity devastated the region, a groundbreaking initiative was born. Local fishers, NGOs, and environmental stewards united to address both the ecological and societal crises. Applying circular economy principles, invasive carp are systematically removed from the lake while being repurposed into nutrient-rich meals to feed vulnerable families. This dual-purpose approach restores ecological balance while providing critical sustenance for the community.

Capturing this inspiring journey, the documentary series led by Darwin Leader and National Geographic Young Explorer Sharona Shnayder brings to life the humanity behind the science. Through immersive storytelling, heartfelt testimonies, and scenes of resilience—from netting operations at dawn to jubilant soup kitchens—the project highlights the profound interdependence of people, planet, and purpose.

Groenvlei’s defenders are rewriting the narrative of environmental stewardship, proving that collaboration can turn crisis into opportunity and inspire lasting change.