22/02/2026
Big news from BEADS Tembea Academy! Our 2026 interns are gearing up for an inspiring coastal journey along Kenya’s breathtaking shoreline on the 25th of February.
The adventure begins in Mombasa, where we’ll wander through the vibrant, historic lanes of Old Town, soaking in the colorful Swahili architecture and rich cultural heritage. Next, we step into the past at Fort Jesus Museum, the iconic 16th-century fortress that stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, telling stories of trade, conflict, and resilience by the Indian Ocean. We then head to Mombasa Marine National Park for practical lesson on marine biology.
From there, we journey south to Wasini Island in Kwale for an unforgettable marine experience: snorkeling among dazzling coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, and - if luck is on our side — swimming alongside graceful dolphins in the clear turquoise waters.
This trip is about more than exploration. We’ll roll up our sleeves for a hands-on Mombasa beach cleanup, removing litter to protect our shores. We’ll also lead advocacy sessions highlighting the urgent need for coral reef conservation, explaining the critical role plankton plays in sustaining ocean life, and stressing why every effort to keep beaches free from pollution truly matters for the health of our ecosystems and future generations.
This transformative experience for our interns is made possible through the generous support of the Rick Steves Foundation. Thank you for believing in education, adventure, and environmental stewardship!
Here are glimpses from our previous coastal visits — moments of action, wonder, and connection that fuel our passion.