Coming up on January 12, 2026
Featuring leading researchers from four continents, including Dr. Jonathon Webber (New Zealand), Roger Sweeney (Ireland), and Onyum Charles (Uganda).
Moderated by Acacia Landfield (US) & Dr. David Anderson (Australia/U.S.).
Click here to register for the webinar!
Join us for the first event in our global webinar series, bringing together voices from nearly every continent! Each speaker will share compelling perspectives on how media can drive drowning prevention education and awareness—locally, regionally, and globally.
Together, we’ll explore what’s working, where we can improve, and how collaboration across regions can save lives. The session will conclude with an interactive 30-minute open discussion, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions and share their experiences from around the world.
As we build momentum toward World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, 2026, we invite everyone to embrace a favorite “floating” motto—whether it’s Floating Saves Lives, Float to Live, or Find Your Float—and help us create a united global message.
By joining forces across media, civil society, healthcare, government, and families, we can turn awareness into action. Let’s honor those lost and protect those at risk by uniting the world through floating and drowning prevention education.
Speakers
Managing Director, AquaSafe New Zealand.
Jonathon Webber is the Managing Director of AquaSafe New Zealand, an organization committed to public safety through water safety research, rescue equipment supply, and consultancy services. An advanced, qualified lifeguard (ret.) with over 35 years’ experience at Piha Beach, he has served in multiple leadership roles within Surf Life Saving Northern Region and holds life membership with Surf Life Saving New Zealand and the Piha Surf Life Saving Club.
Dr. Webber is a Senior Lecturer in Anaesthesiology and Director of the Simulation Centre for Patient Safety at the University of Auckland. He co-founded the International Drowning Researchers’ Alliance and is a corresponding member of the International Life Saving Federation Medical Committee.
His extensive research and publications span drowning prevention, rescue, resuscitation, and aquatic safety, with his doctoral thesis, “Prevention, Rescue, Resuscitation,” exploring the global impact of New Zealand lifeguarding practice on drowning prevention.
Deputy CEO and Marketing Manager of Water Safety Ireland (WSI)
Roger is the Deputy CEO and Marketing Manager of Water Safety Ireland (WSI), a statutory body, voluntary organisation, and registered charity dedicated to preventing drownings and promoting safe enjoyment of Ireland’s waterways.
With extensive experience in public awareness and behaviour change campaigns, Roger leads national initiatives that foster a culture of safety across aquatic environments. He also serves on the Marine Safety Communications Working Group, collaborating with statutory, search and rescue, and community partners to enhance water safety communication and response.
An advocate for innovation and collaboration in public service, Roger holds an MSc in Innovation Management in the Public Service and a Diploma in Community Development from the University of Galway. He has previously served on the boards of The Wheel and the Marketing Institute of Ireland (West Chapter).
Media Coordinator, Uganda | Global Health Advocacy Incubator
Onyum Charles Okao serves as the Media Coordinator for GHAI's Drowning Prevention and Data for Health programs in Uganda. In this role, he partners with government agencies, civil society organizations, and media to design and execute strategic communications that drive health policy reforms.
Charles has been instrumental in fostering multi-stakeholder dialogues, amplifying the use of health data in advocacy, and equipping partners with tools to tackle drowning prevention and CRVS challenges. His work emphasizes community-driven approaches to policy advocacy, ensuring lasting impact.
Before joining GHAI, Charles gained extensive experience in strategic communications, advancing initiatives in health promotion, education, road safety, and alcohol control legislation. He is dedicated to harnessing the power of media to transform public health and improve lives.