Construction is officially underway for the new virtual reality (VR) center at our partner facility, Tela Marine! We’re thrilled! This ambitious project is funded by a $50,000 award from the Stanley Creators Fund. It’s also is a giant leap toward our vision of a future where everyone can experience the magic of our coral reefs.
For generations, the vibrant coral reefs of Tela Bay have been a source of life, wonder, and mystery. But this underwater world has remained out of reach for many in the community—for those who cannot swim, scuba dive, or access its remote beauty. At Tela Coral, we believe that to protect the reef, people must first have the chance to fall in love with it. Thanks to the foundational support of the Stanley Creators Fund, we are breaking down those barriers of access and breaking ground on a new portal to the deep.
Why Virtual Reality? The Power of “Being There”
We often say that virtual reality is second only to first-hand experience. It’s a tool that uniquely engages our senses, placing us directly in the heart of the action. For a child, an elder, or anyone for whom the ocean is an inaccessible frontier, this VR center will be their submarine, their dive gear, and their window to an ecosystem they might otherwise never see.
Our inspiration is simple but profound: we hope that by virtually swimming alongside the towering figure of Casita, witnessing the slow dance of a sea fan, or exploring the nooks of our “Rebel Reef,” the local community will forge a powerful, personal connection to this vital resource. It is this connection—this sense of awe and belonging—that inspires a fierce desire to protect.
The Story Comes to Life
The experiences featured in this new center have deep roots. This project builds upon the success of our initial VR filming, made possible by a grant from Hidden Compass. That grant allowed Dr. Joseph Henry to capture the first stunning, 360-degree footage of Tela’s reefs. Now, with Stanley’s support, we are creating a permanent home for these stories, ensuring they can be shared with thousands of visitors for years to come.
Our Deepest Thanks
A venture of this scale would not be possible without believers who share our vision for an inclusive and conservation-focused future. So, from the bottom of our hearts, we thank the Stanley Creators Fund and the teams at Stanley 1913 and Hidden Compass for their incredible support. You are helping us build the future we want to see—one where technology bridges the gap between people and planet, becoming a catalyst for change.
Stay tuned for more updates as we bring this vision to life. The waters of Tela are waiting to be explored, and soon, everyone will have a front-row seat.