The President of Seychelles, Danny Faure, and former President James Michel received the Planetary and Leadership Award on Wednesday at the National Geographic Awards ceremony at the George Washington University, in Washington D.C.

The Planetary and Leadership award recognises a world leader who has successfully established globally significant protected areas, such as national parks, wilderness areas, or marine reserves, that are fully shielded from exploitation. Faure dedicated the award to the people of Seychelles, State House said. He said that Seychellois citizens have a strong connection with nature and remain committed to successfully protecting and preserving the environment.

“With this award, the National Geographic Society is acknowledging the work we have done, and it is a powerful, emotional recognition of the longstanding vision of Seychelles and our journey so far, for me to be on this stage today,” he said.

President Danny Faure and former President James Michel received the Planetary and Leadership Award on Wednesday at the National Geographic Awards ceremony. (State House)