Change the world

26/08/2025

Nelson Mandela University will be hosting Ecotones, a series of documentary films exploring ocean and coastal cultural heritage from five southern African countries, including South Africa, Namibia, and the Seychelles.

 

The event will be held at the University’s Science Centre on its Ocean Sciences Campus on 22 and 23 September.

The series highlight the rich and diverse cultural practices and histories connected to the ocean and coasts, as uncovered through extensive ethnographic fieldwork.

Ecotones aims to bring these remote and often inaccessible locations to life for local communities across Nelson Mandela Bay and the broader Eastern Cape region.

“This event is not just about film,” said Dr Jessica Thornton, manager of the Blue Values Journey project and member of the NRF Ocean Cultures and Heritage project.

“It is an opportunity to immerse audiences in the cultural landscapes that shape our coastal regions and to raise awareness of the importance of preserving this heritage for future generations.”

Ecotones will welcome community members, students, scholars, cultural advocates, and dignitaries for a shared experience of cultural storytelling, environmental awareness, and academic collaboration.

Event Details:

Date: 22 & 23 September 2025

Venue: Science Dome, Nelson Mandela University

Time: 6PM TO 9PM, 22 SEPTEMBER AND 12 NOON TO 4PM 23 SEPTEMBER, 2025

Admission: Free to students (seats limited please book in advance), public R50 pp.

For more information, contact: Jessica.Thornton@mandela.ac.za

Website: och.mandela.ac.za

RSVP BY 1 SEPTEMBER 

Contact information
Ms Zandile Mbabela
Media Manager
Tel: 0415042777
Zandile.Mbabela@mandela.ac.za