Words: Wayne Mercer
Photos: Kayakasia Philippines
Contacts
Kayakasia Palawan: Instagram:
www.instagram.com/
kayakasia.palawan/
Kayakasia Philippines: Instagram:
www.instagram.com/
kayakasia.ph
Website:
https://kayakasiaphilippines.
wordpress.com/
Project Nova website:
https://projectnovashop.
wordpress.com/
Email: waynemercer_@kayakasia.net
Wayne Mercer
Paddle with a purpose: Kayakasia Philippines’ story of sustainability and success
A catalyst for change in the Philippines
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Philippines, Kayakasia Philippines has become known as more than just an adventure company. It’s a catalyst for change, a beacon of sustainability, and a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. Renowned for offering some of the world’s most thrilling kayaking trails, particularly in the pristine waters of Palawan and Bohol, Kayakasia Philippines has become a bucket list destination for paddlers worldwide.
Stunning scenery
Bohol, the heart of the Philippines, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage site status and captivating natural beauty. Beginner kayakers often explore the island’s extensive mangrove network, navigate tunnels teeming with native bird species, and paddle along the ancient Abatan River. Bohol’s coastline boasts pristine white sandy beaches and stunning rock formations. Kayakasia Philippines is proud to be the only company offering guided trips across this enchanting island.
One of the company’s most popular multi-day destinations in northern Palawan. This multi-day journey takes paddlers through some of the most stunning scenery in the world, including the towering limestone cliffs of El Nido and the crystal-clear waters of Coron. Guests can explore hidden lagoons, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, and encounter diverse marine life, including whales, whale sharks, giant sea turtles, manta rays, dolphins, and dugongs. But beyond the exhilarating adventures, this enterprise is deeply committed to uplifting local communities and preserving the environment.
A testament to the power of education
Kayakasia Philippines’ commitment to empowering youth is a testament to the power of education. By providing young people with the opportunity to acquire new skills and knowledge, the company is helping them break free from the constraints of poverty and build a better future for themselves. The success of Kayakasia Philippines’ youth empowerment program inspires other organisations and individuals working to address social and economic inequality.
Kayakasia Philippines’ training program is designed to equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to become successful kayaking guides and positive role models for their community.
Kayakasia Philippines training program is designed to equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to become successful kayaking guides. The program covers various topics, including a fully funded British Canoeing Level 4, marine ecology, first aid, and customer service. By investing in the development of these young people, Kayakasia Philippines is helping to create a skilled workforce that can contribute to the growth of the eco-tourism industry.
The training program goes beyond technical skills. It also instils a sense of confidence and self-esteem in the participants. By providing them with opportunities to excel in a challenging and rewarding field, Kayakasia Philippines helps these young people to realise their full potential. The program also fosters a sense of community and belonging among the participants, which can impact their lives.
Empowering youth: cultivating a skilled workforce
Kayakasia Philippines’ commitment to empowering impoverished youth is at the heart of its sustainability initiatives. By providing scholarships, employment opportunities, and rigorous training, the company offers young people a pathway out of poverty and into a rewarding career. One of the most significant challenges facing many Filipino youth is generational poverty. By providing scholarships, Kayakasia Philippines helps to ensure that talented and motivated young people have access to education, which is a key factor in breaking the cycle of poverty. The company also offers employment opportunities to training program graduates, providing them with a stable income and a chance to contribute to their communities.
Investing in the future
By empowering youth, Kayakasia Philippines is investing in the region’s future. The company believes that providing young people with opportunities to succeed can create a more sustainable and equitable future for their communities. By equipping these young people with the knowledge and skills to become responsible stewards of the environment, Kayakasia Philippines is also helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry.
A symbiotic relationship with mangrove farmers
Kayakasia Philippines has also forged a strong partnership with mangrove farmers and fishermen in the area. The company provides education on sustainable farming practices, helping farmers to maximise their yields while minimising their environmental impact. This relationship benefits both parties and contributes to preserving the mangrove forests, which play a vital role in coastal ecosystems.
The Mangrove tunnels provide a fantastic exploration route for nature lovers and kayaking enthusiasts. The guides regularly take adventurous tourists on an exploratory kayaking adventure in these ancient mangrove tunnels and share their priceless knowledge of the local birds, symbiotic relationships and the different mangrove species.
By supporting mangrove farmers and promoting sustainable farming practices, Kayakasia Philippines is helping to protect these valuable ecosystems and improve the livelihoods of local communities. This partnership is a testament to the company’s social and environmental responsibility commitment.
Resilience in the face of adversity: the story of Project Nova
When the COVID-19 pandemic brought the tourism industry to a standstill, many businesses were forced to close their doors. However, Kayakasia Philippines, a leading adventure tourism company in the Philippines, demonstrated remarkable resilience. Faced with the challenges posed by the pandemic, the company’s Manager, Rey Donaire, embarked on a journey of innovation that would help Kayakasia Philippines survive and thrive.
Project Nova was more than just a business venture; it was a lifeline for the local community. The project created new employment opportunities for people who had lost their jobs due to the pandemic. Kayakasia Philippines helped alleviate the economic hardship many families in the region faced by providing work to local artisans and craftsmen.
Donaire, a visionary entrepreneur, lead kayak guide, and mentor to many, recognised that the pandemic had created a unique opportunity for Kayakasia Philippines to pivot its business model. Instead of relying solely on tourism, Kayakasia Philippines could explore new avenues for revenue generation. With this in mind, Donaire decided to repurpose the company’s fleet of discarded inflatable kayaks into something entirely new.
Project Nova was a groundbreaking initiative that transformed inflatable kayaks into stylish and functional bags. By leveraging the company’s expertise in manufacturing and design, Kayakasia Philippines was able to create a range of high-quality bags that appealed to a wide range of consumers
You can embark on a journey of a lifetime, exploring hidden coves, pristine beaches, and some of the best kayaking locations in the world.
Moreover, Project Nova demonstrated the power of creativity and innovation in the face of adversity. The idea of transforming discarded inflatable kayaks into bags was a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Kayakasia Philippines team. By thinking outside the box, the company found a new way to generate revenue and contribute to the local economy.
Project Nova was a resounding success. The bags were well-received by consumers, and the project helped to keep Kayakasia Philippines afloat during a challenging time. The initiative also inspired other businesses to think creatively about how they could adapt to the pandemic’s changing circumstances.
A global inspiration
As Kayakasia Philippines continues to grow and expand its reach, it inspires other businesses and individuals looking to impact the world positively. By demonstrating that it is possible to be both profitable and socially responsible, the company is paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future. If you have any ideas or suggestions on how you could partner with Kayakasia Philippines, please reach out.
The success of Project Nova is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Kayakasia Philippines. By embracing innovation and supporting the local community, the company could survive the pandemic and emerge stronger than before. Rey Donaire’s Project Nova serves as a powerful reminder that adversity can be a catalyst for creativity and growth.
These unique bags are available on the Project Nova website – https://projectnovashop.wordpress.com/
Jacques Cousteau famously described Palawan as the last frontier, a testament to its pristine beauty and untouched natural wonders. Kayakasia Philippines offers regular scheduled trips to this breathtaking destination, allowing you to experience firsthand the magic of Palawan’s waters.
With Kayakasia Philippines, you can embark on a journey of a lifetime, exploring hidden coves, pristine beaches, and some of the best kayaking locations in the world.
Book your kayaking adventure with Kayakasia Philippines today and discover the beauty of the Philippines’s last frontier.
A force for good: Kayakasia Philippines’ global impact
Kayakasia Philippines is a shining example of how a company can be a force for good. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, community development, and environmental stewardship, Kayakasia Philippines has garnered international recognition and acclaim.
Kayakasia Philippines’ exceptional work has been featured on major global news networks such as BBC, CNN, National Geographic, and ITV. These appearances have increased the company’s visibility and highlighted its important contributions to sustainable tourism and community development.
