“My ghost nets journey has been almost 15 years”, the vice president of APHERO mentioned, What began as removing abandoned nets and marine debris has grown into something much larger: a mission that connects ocean conservation with social responsibility.

“Seven years-t took me that long to inspire Yunxia Li (Carol), to move her with patience, passion, and heart. And last week, I had the honor of inviting her to Hong Kong. She came from Zhuhai in the morning and returned that evening. Together, we shared a wonderful, constructive, and meaningful long day-well worth it.”

From beach cleanups to mangrove surveys, from solo dives to community-led action, every step has been about more than the environment. It’s been about people-especially underprivileged and disabled communities. Their resilience and creativity have become the soul of this mission.

Jan 29th, in freezing water, over ten members of a production team joined me for shooting and interviews on shoreline ghost nets and marine trash. The goal is clear: to speak up, and to work together to protect our oceans and beaches—here and there, near and far.

A few of us took a speedboat from Central Pier 9 to the island, while more than 10 members of the production team went to the spot very early in the morning—each of us united by purpose.

Carol witnessed firsthand the severity of marine trash and ghost net impacts. Her words stayed with me:

“It’s truly tough and challenging-for underwater cleanup, near and far.”

That moment matters. Because inspiring Carol is part of a larger vision: to build a platform in China that unites environmental action with inclusive social engagement. In China, being a senior is an advantage-the younger generation listens, respects, and learns. That’s why I believe this is the right time, and the right place.

Carol’s fieldwork, her insight, and her connection to our co-founder at the China Association for Disaster Prevention (中國災害防禦協會) can help amplify Asia Pacific Humanitarian Rescue Organization (APHERO) ’s mission and bring our shared values to life.

A picture paints a thousand words—then why can’t I paint you?  

If these images speak to you, let them move you. Because this is not just a local issue. It’s a global emergency. And we need every voice, every heart, every hand.

This journey has never been about me. It’s about legacy. About building something that lasts—through patience, passion, and heart.

Let’s make this platform unstoppable.