My parents have been coming to this beach for over 30 years, and in that time, they’ve built strong friendships with the local community. Occasionally, I would join them on these trips, enjoying sponsored holidays that gave me a chance to experience the beauty of the area. It was during these visits, while staying in hotels and exploring the surroundings, that I began experimenting with my first designs, often with the help of local tailors who generously shared their skills and knowledge with me.

As much as I loved the creative process and the inspiration I found here, I couldn’t ignore the realities behind the polished facades of the tourist spots. Life for many locals was far from what it seemed to outsiders. While my parents focused on helping some of the families they had grown close to, my attention shifted toward the environment, particularly the challenges threatening the natural world around the beach.

I became increasingly concerned about the state of the wildlife reserves that border the beach—fragile ecosystems that need protection. The decline of the coral reefs also weighed heavily on me; these vibrant underwater habitats, so critical to marine life, are slowly being destroyed by pollution, climate change, and human activity. And then there’s the lighthouse island, a once-pristine spot now marred by litter and neglect, which feels like a microcosm of the broader environmental issues facing the area.

These experiences have shaped my perspective and priorities. I want to honor the connection my family has to this place by doing what I can to protect it—not just for us, but for the community and the wildlife that call it home. Whether through my designs, inspired by sustainability, or direct action to raise awareness and advocate for change, I feel a responsibility to help preserve the beauty and balance of this special place.