In celebration of World Water Day, Seven Seas Water Group (SSWG) has recognized the next generation of scientific innovators, awarding top honors to students whose research tackled critical water-related challenges at the British Virgin Islands’ National Science Fair.

The Prize for Water Science, SSWG’s annual award for excellence in water research, highlights the importance of STEAM education—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—in addressing environmental and sustainability issues.

This year’s top honor in the secondary division was awarded to Zara Pascoe of Cedar International School for her project, Dissolved Oxygen as a Marine Pollutant Indicator. Pascoe conducted extensive testing at nine locations around Tortola, using dissolved oxygen levels to assess pollution, bacterial presence, and decomposing organic matter. The method aligns with daily water quality monitoring conducted at SSWG’s own lab to ensure safe drinking water standards.

In the primary division, Daria Donovan and Brielle Williams of Ebenezer Thomas Primary School won for their project, Wat-er We Drinking. The duo investigated bacterial growth in reusable water bottles, presenting a compelling case for improved hygiene practices. Their research was among the highest-scoring projects at the fair.

The winners were previously announced at the Science Fair’s closing ceremony but were later invited to the Paraquita Bay Water Plant for a behind-the-scenes look at industrial desalination and to receive their awards.

The Hon. Sharie de Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, toured the facility and commended both the students and SSWG for their commitment to advancing science education.

“It is always a proud moment to witness our students being recognized for their scientific talent and curiosity,” Minister de Castro said. “On this World Water Day, I commend Seven Seas Water Group for not only investing in innovation but for investing in our young people. Their continued support of the Science Fair demonstrates the kind of meaningful public-private partnership that strengthens our education system and empowers future leaders.”

She emphasized the importance of real-world scientific exploration, noting that students engaging with sustainability and water quality research are not just learning, but leading.

SSWG, a leading provider of desalination services, has been a major sponsor of the Science Fair for the past three years, contributing over $20,000 to support student-led research initiatives.

Kevon Smith, a former BVI National Science Fair winner and now Plant Manager at SSWG’s Paraquita Bay facility, reflected on the significance of the partnership for the local community.

“As a company deeply committed to providing well-engineered, efficiently operated desalination services to this community, we are proud to support initiatives that promote scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship,” Smith said. “Our future plant managers, engineers, operators, and professionals will be among the competitors, showcasing their ingenuity and commitment to building a more sustainable future.”

SSWG extended congratulations to the Ministry of Education, Science Fair Coordinator Renee Caines, participating students, educators, and parents for their role in executing another successful showcase of young scientific talent.

As global water challenges become increasingly urgent, initiatives like the Prize for Water Science continue to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists and engineers. The students honored this year exemplify how young minds, given the right tools and opportunities, can contribute to shaping a more sustainable future.