A strategic PR & Communication professional and engaging content creator with 15+ years of experience msnaging events & crafting compelling content across digital & social media platforms.

Giorgi Azariashvili is the founder and leader of Let’s Do It Georgia, MASTERPEACE Georgia, World Clean-Up Day Georgia and Youth Organization CAYNEX. He began his eco-activism in 2009 during his bachelor studies at Tbilisi State University. Currently, he is a Ph.D. student in European Studies at Tbilisi State University. He earned his MA degree in Political Science at TSU in 2015 and also graduated from the Georgian Foundation for Strategic and International Studies (GFSIS), where he completed a one-year educational program in National Security and Public Policy (2014–2015).
Since 2010, Giorgi has been actively engaged in environmental protection, youth affairs and youth projects. Over the years, he has organized numerous youth educational activities and programs such as Future Generation for Peaceful Co-existence, Plan Your Future Today, and Youth for Future – ACT for Youth Inclusion; One Step Ahead, Project STAY.
Giorgi is also the manager of major ecological projects in Georgia, including Don’t Throw – Put It Here, There is No Planet B, Georgia Clean-up Days, ACT for the Environment, Green Camps, Lets Green the future, Eco village in Glola, and many others.
He has extensive experience in ecological issues and has participated in numerous international and local projects, roundtables, discussions, webinars, and meetings since 2009. He took part in the World Clean Conference in 2018, 2019, and 2022, 2023. In 2019, he was a member of the International Staff Team at the USA Scout Jamboree, where his responsibilities included planning and implementing ecological educational training courses and workshops.
As an eco-activist in Georgia, Giorgi is a member of several green organizations, including Let’s Do It World, Scouts of Georgia, and World Clean Up day.
He has also participated in multiple Training of Trainers (ToT) programs focused on environmental protection and sustainable development, officially becoming a certified trainer in 2013.
Over the course of his career, he has served as the main trainer in more than 120 international projects worldwide. He has built a broad international network and partnerships with ecological organizations across EU member states and beyond.

EWUBE Kelly Laure EGBE is an entrepreneur, water and environmental consultant, Ocean innovator, climate activist, policy analyst, community actor and development expert. She has over 11 + years experience in climate change mitigation projects and social sciences innovation. She acquired a BSc in Geography from the University of Buea, Cameroon, and MSc in Water Policy from a Joint MSc program between Abu Bekr Belkaid University of Tlemcen and the Pan African University Institute of Water and Energy Science-including climate change (PAUWES)-Algeria. She is the Founder and Program Coordinator of One Green Africa-OGA, the Coordinator of Water Data Bank-WADABA project, She is a member of the Early Career Ocean Professional (ECOP) Africa acting as one of the Capacity Development Leads within the team. She is the innovator of the “Empowering Ocean and Coastal Communities through Ocean Wastes Up cycling Project in Africa” and many other projects across Africa. She has attended high profile international conference all across the globe which has broadened her influence and capacities.

I love the ocean because the ocean gave me everything through surfing and i wanted to give back that’s why Bahri Association was created in 2010 to protect the ocean and raise awareness about environmental protection

Peter Teye Busumprah is the Ghana Ambassador for the Ocean Love initiative. He is founder and CEO of Ocean Rock Base and an expert member of the Vision 2030 process endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade for sustainable development coordinated by UNESCO/IOC.
Peter is Expert Member of the UN Regular Process for World Ocean Assessment III and He is founder and project lead of the Ghana Ocean Climate Innovations Hub, an UN Ocean Decade endorsed project.
He is affiliated with the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (Government of Ghana).
Peter was awarded the Global Ocean Tribute award for 2024 in recognition of his contributions to the ocean economy.

Founder/President, Pan African Vision for the Environment (PAVE), Nigeria.
National Coordinator, Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs) Nigeria Network (https://www.ecopdecade.org/nigeria/). Member Nigeria National Ocean Decade Committee (https://www.nigoceanstakeholders.org/). OceanLove Nigerian Ambassador (https://oceanlove.news/) A human development and public policy specialist with B.Sc in Applied Chemistry (University of Uyo, Nigeria), and Post Graduate Studies Diploma in Water Management, with Specialization in Water Services Management (UNESCO-IHE, Netherlands), with over 20 years sector experience in human ecology and sustainable development issues, spanning NGO management, government, civil society, private sector and International development agencies relations. Other areas of expertise include fund raising, policy analysis, participatory research, advocacy, capacity building, project development and implementation, monitoring and evaluation, consultancy / public sector advisory, grassroots mobilisation, coalition building and stakeholder engagement.

The Pan African Vision for the Environment (PAVE) is a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) accredited Lagos based non- profit, non-political, non-governmental organization, established with the aim of promoting sustainable development through research, documentation, policy dialogues, workshops, advocacy and consultancy services. PAVE deals with development issues in their environmental and socio-economic aspects with emphasis on the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets regarding water and sanitation and other related human settlement issues including Agricultural Value Chain promotion, Gender, Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Climate change and Clean Energy promotion, Waste Management including E-Waste, Chemical Management, Ocean Citizen Awareness and Literacy and Stakeholder Engagement. PAVE is registered (IT/NO: 26029) with the Corporate Affairs Commission in Nigeria.

The chosen mission of PAVE is to act as a catalyst, mobilize, mediate and act directly in several of society’s processes dealing with the improvement of quality of life and respect for cultural and biological diversity. As its basis, PAVE believes in promoting good governance at all level, across all sectors, be it public or private. PAVE also believes in a democratic system for managing human interests.

The fundamental objective of PAVE is to act, support and collaborate in the elaboration and dissemination of new approaches, policies and activities related to human development questions.

We have over 20 year’s experience in the development sector and work at the local, national, regional and international level. We have presented papers conducted researches and organized capacity building workshops on various sustainable development thematic areas in Africa, Asia, Europe, South and North America.

I am truly passionate about the Ocean and I am committed to promoting “Ocean Literacy” in Africa through the OceanLove initiative!!!

In Africa, most of us live our lives unaware of how our day-to-day actions affect the health and sustainability of the ocean and its many resources on which we depend. Nor do the majority of us recognize how the health of the ocean affects our daily lives. Most citizens are not aware of the full extent of the medical, economic, social, political, and environmental importance of the ocean and seas. However, what some scholars have called “ocean blindness” can be countered by improving access to accurate and compelling ocean education that strengthens the learner’s connection with the ocean. This is the essence of ocean literacy: an understanding of the ocean’s influence on us and our influence on the ocean.

Africa is a young continent with more than 60% of the population aged below 30 years. The continent should harness the demographic dividend by empowering this huge pool of human resource potential. The focus should be on getting them into ocean sciences through focused ocean literacy programmes, supporting skills development and mentoring to enable them fit in the job market and creating new opportunities for employment. This will facilitate the unlocking of scientific excellence and the creation of the new generation of ocean experts. This I will do through the OceanLove initiative!!!

Ocean literacy is more than just educating or informing the public and the marine and maritime stakeholders about the importance of oceans. Ocean literacy, via the use of behavioural change methods and by adopting a system approach, aims at facilitating the creation of an ocean literate society. Ocean Literacy is an essential component of the Ocean Science Decade. The fifth objective of the Ocean Science decade asks to transfer the scientific and technical capacity of the ocean use to marine technology, training and education, and increased ocean literacy so that all can participate in, and benefit from.

The focus of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) is to develop a global partnership to raise the awareness on the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of our ocean and its resources and to build an improved public knowledge base across the world’s population regarding our global ocean. An equally transformational part of the Decade is about us and our relationship with the ocean, understanding of the value of the ocean can be nurtured through ocean literacy efforts among diverse stakeholders groups. This I will do through the OceanLove initiative!!!

www.pave-nigeria.org

www.ecopdecade.org/nigeria

www.nigoceanstakeholders.org

Ph.D Student, Marine Biology Department, Institute of Marine Research, Red Sea University, Sudan. M. Sc Environmental Studies, Post-Diploma Zoology and B.Sc Honour Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Fisheries, Red Sea University, Sudan.

I am deeply captivated by the beauty and complexity of the ocean, a force that has shaped my personal and professional journey. With an honors degree in Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, my connection to the ocean is both scientific and soulful. From nurturing kelp cultures at Kelp Blue to breeding tilapia and catfish at the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, I have been privileged to witness the intricate balance that sustains life beneath the waves.

My passion lies in exploring innovative solutions to protect our marine ecosystems while ensuring they remain a source of life, culture, and inspiration for generations to come. Being an OceanLover is more than a career, it is a profound calling, a lifelong commitment to the stewardship of our oceans – serving as a guardian of the blue heart of our planet.

Kelvin B. Karnue is a climate Activist from Liberia, who currently volunteer with the Liberians Youth for Climate Actions -LYCA- Where he coordinates the Biodiversity Working Group. He’s also the Co- Founder of the Climate Activist Association of Liberia- an Umbrella Organization for climate activism in Liberia. He’s a graduate of the University of Liberia, with a Bachelor of Science in General forestry with an emphasis on Biodiversity Conservation. He is currently the Focal Point for Mock Cop( a global youth organization that seeks to address climate literacy in various high schools across the world) Kelvin is also member of the Global Youth Biodiversity network( GYBN) Over the years, he’s served as an Ambassador for the International Youth Conference on Climate and people( edition six, seven, and eight). He’s a member of the UNESCO Youth- a youth network of global community leaders

Over the years, he’s acquired various certificates in the following:

Leadership and Personal Development – T. Wonkpah School of Leadership and Personal Development.

Mentor an African to the Global Stage- IT – TRAIN Africa .

Green Academy – One Billion Strong .

Climate Activist Training – LYCA

Entrepreneurship and Business Planning – Orange Digital Center.

Career Development – Orange Dig

He’s also a passionate young man who believes in entrepreneurship and the founder of the KBK Enterprise- a venture that focuses on Sustainable Agriculture .

He’s loves spending time with family and friends in nature doing his free time.

His work focuses on SDG

Ona Santisteban Uribarri is a Spanish ocean conservationist and Biology student at Sorbonne Université in France. Her work focuses on tackling sea turtle bycatch, combining science, GIS, and storytelling to build empathy and drive conservation action.

After completing an externship with the National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy, she received seed funding to develop a project connecting fishers and scientists through a digital platform to report bycatch. Her work has been recognized by the European Commission, where she is accredited as a Young Ocean Advocate.

As an Ocean Protection Ambassador with EarthEcho International, she has led awareness campaigns on bottom trawling and engaged over 1,000 people, while also speaking at international ocean forums. Driven by collaboration and innovation, Ona works to turn ocean challenges into collective solutions.

I’m ADAM FADILAH MOITAPÉOUH, a young woman from Togo with a passion for the oceans and marine biodiversity. I’ve always been fascinated by the vital role the oceans play for our planet. This led me to study oceanography to deepen my knowledge of marine ecosystems and their conservation. I’m involved in raising awareness of pollution and overfishing issues with associations, while also taking part in research. Being an *OceanLover* means defending these precious resources and inspiring respect for the oceans. I firmly believe in the importance of education and activism to preserve the beauty of the seas for future generations.

I am an Adjunct Professor of Water Quality and Environment at Ibn Tofail University, Morocco, with a deep-rooted passion for understanding and preserving our oceans. My journey into marine science was inspired by a lifelong fascination with the interplay between natural systems and human activity, particularly along Morocco’s coastlines.

Holding a Ph.D. in Geoscience and Environment from Ibn Tofail University, I have dedicated my career to studying coastal erosion, sediment dynamics, and the impact of climate change on marine environments. My research combines advanced techniques, such as isotopic analysis, to unravel the complex stories told by coastal and marine ecosystems.

As a recipient of the prestigious NF-POGO scholarship, I trained at the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany, further sharpening my expertise in ocean observation and modeling. My work bridges the gap between science and society by highlighting the importance of ocean literacy, aiming to foster a deeper connection between communities and the marine world.

My passion for the ocean extends beyond academia. I am driven by a commitment to inspire sustainable practices that protect marine biodiversity, mitigate flood risks, and ensure the resilience of coastal communities against environmental challenges. Whether through research, teaching, or public outreach, I embody the spirit of an ocean advocate, constantly striving for a harmonious relationship between humanity and the sea.

I am Hala Ben Hamda, a passionate oceanographer, activist, and environmental advocate from Kerkennah Island, Tunisia. With a background in oceanography, marine biology, and environmental management, I have dedicated my academic and professional journey to protecting the marine environment. My PhD research focuses on climate change, planktonic foraminifera, and deep-water studies in the Mediterranean, areas where I aim to pioneer scientific contributions in Tunisia.

From leading initiatives on plastic pollution and ghost fishing gear to organizing clean-up campaigns and promoting biodegradable materials, I have always believed in the power of collective action for a better planet. My first dive with sea turtles in 2021 cemented my love for marine life and motivated me to drive projects like LifeMedTurtles and international climate change collaborations with Germany, Italy, and Morocco.

As a member of the Kantara Save Earth Association, I work to empower local communities, raise awareness about climate change, and advocate for sustainability. Whether it’s hosting seminars on environmental biology or integrating eco-literacy into public awareness, my goal is to inspire action and instill a love for the ocean in everyone.

For me, being an ocean lover means embracing our responsibility to protect our planet’s blue heart. It’s not just my career—it’s my life’s purpose.

Guardians of the Sacred Waters is a new Indigenous led protection and prevention model, coordinated between the European Crime prevention team and the leaders of the Lower Tapajos. The initiative is an expansion of a previous award winning pilot project on protecting the forests, which now aims to apply the tested approach to safeguarding the river ecosystem of the precious water territories in the Amazon. Using a blend of traditional wisdom and modern technology, they are taking a stand against water-based environmental crimes.

Passionate about ocean, my background is in Oceanography my experience include marine conservation, project management, ocean innovation. I love the deepsea area and tecnologhy and my mission is to ensure the great relationshit between the human and ocean using the local and scientific knowledge to serve as cataliser center of briliants solutions.

Hadeer Elkhouly is a marine professional with expertise in aquaculture, ocean sustainability, and environmental education. Growing up along the Mediterranean, she developed a deep connection to the sea, driving her commitment to marine conservation and sustainable fisheries. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree, focusing on ocean and aquatic ecosystem sustainability. Through research, education, and advocacy, she works to enhance ocean literacy, support coastal communities, and promote responsible aquaculture practices. Her collaborations with international organizations and stakeholders reflect her dedication to a resilient and thriving marine environment.

An Indigenous youth-led ocean literacy program integrating traditional and scientific knowledge. It empowers students and communities to understand coral reef ecosystems through peer-led education, expeditions, and hands-on learning across Fiji.

Africa’s first large-scale Nile-based initiative turning river waste into livelihoods. Local fishers collect and recycle river plastics before they reach the sea, creating green jobs and promoting circular economy models across Upper Egypt.

A holistic community-led model combining coral restoration, sustainable fishing, eco-tourism, and financial inclusion. It empowers local divers and women to restore reefs and build economic resilience across the Kilwa Seascape.

A youth-driven campaign engaging 200 young leaders in five coastal communities in Limbe. Combining education, cleanups, and the “Ocean Biodiversity Cup” football tournament, it turns conservation into a source of pride and action.

Since I was a child, I always felt that I had a connection with animals. I’ve been in several environmental projects and activities related to be the agent, that kind of person who speaks for the nature. I fell in love with the ocean by watching documentaries, going once to the National Aquarium of Cuba and that passion grew to the point of creating my own project, called Proyecto Acuática, about marine biology to understand more about what I love.

I am a passionate marine biology researcher holding a PhD in marine ecology. I’m assistant professor specializing in marine biology and zoology. My work centers on understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change, marine pollution, and unsustainable resource management.

Growing up near the coast, I developed a profound connection with the sea—a connection that has driven me to explore its rich ecosystems and address the challenges they face. To me, the ocean is not only a source of natural wonder but also a powerful symbol of resilience and interconnectedness. This perspective fuels my commitment to advocating for sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and the protection of marine life.

Through my research, teaching, and conservation efforts, I aim to inspire others and spread a deep appreciation for the ocean, encouraging collective action to preserve and restore our marine ecosystems for future generations.

Kulwa Mtaki is a marine scientist specializing in fisheries management and ocean governance. She holds a PhD and MSc in Marine Sciences from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. In 2025, she was awarded the prestigious United Nations–Nippon Foundation Fellowship on Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea. Kulwa serves as a Marine Conservation Warden at the Marine Parks and Reserves Unit in Tanzania, where she focuses on strengthening the sustainable management of marine protected areas. Her work integrates scientific research and community engagement to address challenges related to climate change, ecological resilience, and conservation governance.

I am a dedicated ocean advocate with a deep-rooted passion for marine conservation, shaped by my diverse professional background. As a practising lawyer at FIDES LLP Chambers, I have honed my skills in navigating complex legal frameworks, which I now channel into championing policies aimed at protecting our oceans. My tenure as Programme Manager for FAMBULTOK International allowed me to engage with communities, fostering dialogues that emphasised the importance of environmental stewardship. Additionally, my experience as a news anchor and TV presenter for Star Television and AYV Television has equipped me with the communication prowess to raise awareness about oceanic issues effectively. My multifaceted career reflects my unwavering commitment to preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.

As an islander, ocean is everything for us