Finding Timor-Leste's Soul in the Sea | Dedy Kayaka

What if the key to protecting the ocean isn’t science alone - but connection?In this episode of 68 Cups of Blueberry Tea, I sit down with Dedy Kayaka, founder of Underwater Cinema, a grassroots movement helping Timorese people reconnect with the ocean through storytelling, education, community action and first-hand experiences beneath the surface.Growing up in the mountains of Balibo, Dedy never imagined the ocean would shape his life. Despite living in an island nation surrounded by water, he felt disconnected from it—just as many Timorese do. Everything changed the first time he looked underwater and discovered a world of colour, beauty and wonder that he never knew existed.More than a conversation about marine conservation, this is a story about identity, belonging, hope and the power of reconnecting with nature.As Dedy reflects, perhaps the ocean doesn’t just surround Timor-Leste - it connects us all.