Professor Mitsutaku Makino is the President of the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI) at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Japan. He holds a Ph.D., M.A., and B.A. from Kyoto University and an M.Phil. from the University of Cambridge. Previously, he served as Postdoctoral Researcher at Yokohama National University and later as Senior Researcher and Group Head at Japan’s National Research Institute of Fisheries Science, contributing to ecosystem-based fisheries management. Currently a Professor at the University of Tokyo’s Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, he leads global initiatives on sustainable ocean governance and serves in key roles with PICES, IUCN, and leading marine science journals.

Dr. Emadul Islam is a Senior Research Fellow at the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI) of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Japan. He previously served as an Adjunct Scholar at the National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR), USA, and has worked with Transparency International Bangladesh, BRAC, and the Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies at Independent University, Bangladesh. Dr. Islam earned his Ph.D. in Community Development from the University of Malaya under the Yayasan Khazanah Scholarship and was a 2022–2023 Fulbright Visiting Scholar at Northeastern University, USA. His research appears in IJDRR, EJDR, Encyclopedia, and Social Movement Studies.

Professor V.N. Attri is the former Chair in Indian Ocean Studies (CIOS) at the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Republic of Mauritius (2014–2020). Renowned as the “Architect of the Blue Economy in the Indian Ocean Region,” he has been pivotal in advancing sustainable ocean development and regional cooperation. A distinguished scholar in International Trade and Finance, his expertise spans Economic Theory, Sustainable Development, and Environmental Economics. He conducted post-doctoral research at UCLA and The George Washington University. Professor Attri founded and edited the Journal of Indian Ocean Rim Studies and co-edited the Handbook of Blue Economy in the Indian Ocean Region (2018).

With over 52 years of extensive experience in the ocean related fields, I have excelled in leadership roles such as former Maritime Affairs Secretary at esteemed organizations including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Seabed Authority, Jamaica and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, France and Focal point of the Indian Ocean Rim Association, Mauritius. As a former two-star Admiral of the Bangladesh Navy, I leveraged 38 years of naval expertise to educate future maritime professionals as a Senior Visiting Lecturer at naval establishments both home and abroad. My areas of expertise include International Law of the Sea International humanitarian laws and laws of armed conflict at sea, Blue Economy, maritime governance and strategy, piracy, marine pollution, ocean science & national accounts, and maritime delimitation.

 Dr. Asela K. Kulatunga is a Lecturer in Industrial Systems (E&R) at the Department of Engineering, Faculty of Environment, Science, and Economics, University of Exeter, UK, where he also serves as Director of the MSc Programme in International Supply Chain Management. With two decades of global academic and research experience, he holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from the University of Technology Sydney and a B.Sc. in Production Engineering from the University of Peradeniya. His research focuses on sustainability in industrial and supply chain systems, using modelling, simulation, and data analytics to address complex, transdisciplinary challenges through systems thinking and innovation.

Hussain Sinan is the Director General of Fisheries Management at the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Maldives. With over 15 years of experience, he specializes in fisheries management, value-chain analysis, and socio-economic impacts. He has held key international leadership roles, including Chair of the IOTC Standing Committee on Administration and Finance, Co-Chair of the IOTC Coastal States Group (G16), and Chair of the SWIOFC. In 2021, he led the CCSBT performance review panel. A former Nippon Foundation–Ocean Nexus Postdoctoral Fellow at Dalhousie University, Sinan is currently editing a book on strengthening Regional Fisheries Management Organizations.

Dr. Vijay Sakhuja is Professor and Head of the Center of Excellence for Geopolitics and International Studies (CEGIS) at REVA University. A former Indian Navy officer, he previously served as Director of the National Maritime Foundation, New Delhi, and has held research and academic positions at ISEAS–Singapore, CICP–Cambodia, CAPS, ORF, IDSA, and USI. Dr. Sakhuja holds M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. He has authored and edited over 50 books and monographs on geopolitics, maritime strategy, technology, climate change, and the Blue Economy, including Asian Maritime Power in the 21st Century and Nagapattinam to Suvarnadwipa.

Nilanthi Samaranayake is an Adjunct Fellow at the East-West Center in Washington and a former Visiting Expert at the U.S. Institute of Peace. Her research focuses on U.S. strategy in the Indian Ocean, the Indian Navy, small South Asian states, and non-traditional security. Previously, she directed the Strategy and Policy Analysis Program at the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA), leading multidisciplinary research for civilian and military leaders. Before CNA, she spent a decade analyzing public opinion at Pew Research Center and was a fellow at the National Bureau of Asian Research. She holds an MSc from LSE and a BA from American University.

Hideyuki Shiozawa is the Director of the Division of Island Nations at the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI), Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF), Japan. He previously served with Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including as First Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in Fiji and Economic Adviser in the Marshall Islands. Before rejoining SPF in 2015, he was an Associate Program Officer at SPF and a JICA Volunteer Teacher in the Marshall Islands. Appointed Director in July 2024, Mr. Shiozawa has led over 70 ODA projects and 30 SPF initiatives across the Pacific, advancing human resource development and regional cooperation.

Dr. Matt Frost is a senior leader with over 20 years’ experience in the charity and research sector and heads up the International work at PML. Matt works extensively on international matters specialising in networking and science diplomacy and sits on a number of international and national committees. Examples include: the UK National Decade Committee and the Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership (the UKs primary marine climate advice body), as well as the MCCIP Overseas Working Group. Matt led work with the UK Overseas Territory governments to produce the first-ever climate assessment across all the UK Overseas Territories. Matt also chairs and also led on the establishment of the World Association of Marine Stations (WAMS), working with global partners to bring together marine station directors (with UN IOC-Unesco) in support of the Sustainable Development Goals. Matt has worked on many marine issues including climate change and biodiversity with a wide range of stakeholders across different countries and cultures including international bodies such as the United Nations, embassies, global secretariats (e.g. the Commonwealth), G7, investors and Global NGOs.

Matt has previously worked for the civil service, as a lecturer at the University of Plymouth and for 20 years was Deputy Director of the Marine Biological Association and Head of Policy and Engagement. Matt originally graduated with a 1st class degree in marine biology before completing a PhD programme looking at large-scale patterns in sandy beach macrofauna.

Ambassador Carlos Márcio Bicalho Cozendey was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1963.

He joined the Diplomatic Career Preparatory Course (CPCD) at the Rio Branco Institute in 1985 and received his bachelor´s degree in Diplomacy from the same Institute (1985-1986). He also earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1980-1984) and a master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Brasília (1990-1992).

He held the positions of Assistant and Advisor to the Trade Policy Division 1987-1992), Head of the Mercosur Division (1999-2003), Director of the Economic Department (2007-2010), Director of the Financial and Services Affairs Department (2015) and Undersecretary general for Economic and Financial Affairs (2015-2018).  He also served as Special Advisor to the Foreign Commerce Chamber (CAMEX) Executive Secretariat (1998-1999) and as Secretary of International Affairs (2011-2014) at the Ministry of Finance.

On his first assignment abroad, he served at the Permanent Mission of Brazil to International Organizations in Geneva (1992-1995), and then at  the Delegation of Brazil to the Latin American Integration Association (LAIA), in Montevideo (1995-1998). He was also Counselor at the Mission of Brazil to the European Communities, in Brussels (2003-2006). As an Ambassador, he was Delegate of Brazil to the International Economic Organizations in Paris (2018-2022).

He has been appointed Secretary of Multilateral Political Affairs since 27th February 2023.

Ulrik Lenaerts is co-facilitator Ocean and Climate in UNFCCC for 2025 and 2026. As deputy head of delegation for Belgium he has been involved for almost two decades in the climate negotiations. Over the past years he negotiated for the EU the modalities for the global stocktake as agreed in Katowice, the ocean and climate nexus and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings. His focus has always been on making the UNFCCC process more fit for purpose to facilitate enhanced ambition and strengthened implementation. This translates in his efforts for more involvement of the stakeholders and for strengthening synergies with other international organisations, particularly on the ocean and biodiversity.

Marine biologist and coastal management expert who coordinates the Integrated Coastal Management Laboratory as an associate professor at the Federal University of Santa Catarina. She represents Brazil and co-chairs the IOC/UNESCO Working Group on Ocean Planning and Sustainable Management, while also co-leading the Cono Sur Regional Training Center of the Ocean Teachers Global Academy. With extensive experience providing technical advisory and capacity building across four continents, she specializes in coastal and marine management throughout the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe. She holds a doctorate in Marine Sciences.

Luz Gil is an Ocean and Climate Advisor at The Nature Conservancy. Through strategic partnerships and public policy initiatives, Luz drives efforts to promote the conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems as Nature-based Solutions to climate change. Since November 2024, Luz serves as a Co-Focal Point of the Marrakech Partnership for Global Climate Action (MPGCA) Oceans and Coastal Zones Group, supporting the mobilization of Non-State Actors and the representation of the climate-ocean nexus at UNFCCC. Luz holds a Master’s in Public Administration in Energy and Environment from Columbia University and a Bachelor’s in International Relations from ITESM

Anna-Marie is the Senior Director of Climate Policy at Ocean Conservancy. She was previously at Rare, an international conservation and development non-profit, as the Director of Policy and Strategic Partnerships. At Rare she managed a global network of policy staff, advanced fisheries policy in multiple countries, and advised executive leadership on ocean and climate policy. Prior to Rare, Anna-Marie was the Ocean and Coastal Policy Advisor for U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, where she worked closely with many stakeholders to advance U.S. domestic ocean policy priorities. She was a Knauss Sea Grant Fellow in 2010, has a Coastal Environmental Management degree from Duke University and received a BSc in Marine Science from University of South Carolina.

Prof. John Siddorn is the Chief Executive of the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), where he leads the organisation’s mission to gain a deeper knowledge of the ocean to address major challenges facing society and the natural world.  

John is Head of the UK Delegation to the International Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO and has led the formation of Marine Science UK, the umbrella organisation, which he Chairs.  He has national and international representative roles and responsibilities including serving on the Governing Board for the National Partnership for Ocean Prediction, the UN Decade Digital Twins of the Ocean (DITTO) Advisory Board and the Ad Hoc Committee supporting the development of OceanObs ’29.

Will Steen is the Marine Science Officer for Ocean Generation. He has a master's in marine biology from Southampton and is a PADI/SSI Divemaster. He prefers to be below or on the water, but when forced to be on land he is mostly happy talking about the sea and the things in it. Despite a love for sailing, surfing, SCUBA and sibilance, he is not a strong swimmer without his fins. He justifies this by asking if you have seen a fish swim well without its fins.

Erinn Bell is a second-year Master’s student in the School of Marine Science and Policy at the University of Delaware and the Global Ocean Forum’s (GOF) 2025 Dr. Biliana Cicin-Sain Ocean and Climate Change Intern. She is currently studying Marine Policy, focusing on marine mammal strandings and policy implementation along the U.S. East Coast. In her role with the GOF, she is providing substantive and administrative support with the development of the Report on Assessing Progress on Ocean and Climate Action: 2024-2025 and the COP30 Virtual Ocean Pavilion. Erinn is passionate about the intersection of marine science, conservation, and policy.

Siena is a senior at Monmouth University, pursuing a B.S. in Marine & Environmental Biology and Policy and minoring in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). She works for the Global Ocean Forum and the Urban Coast Institute as research assistant, contributing to projects advancing sustainable ocean governance and marine policy. She also works as an undergraduate research assistant analyzing environmental DNA (eDNA) samples from oceanic and estuarine environments for a project on “Investigating eDNA as a Tool for Monitoring the Lower Hudson–Raritan Estuary”. Additionally, she serves as President of Monmouth’s Chapter of Love Blue, a student-run, externally funded nonprofit that organizes beach cleanups and engages students in hands-on ocean stewardship. She is passionate about ocean sustainability, policy, marine science, and community action, and is driven to protect and restore our blue planet.

Cymie Payne is a Professor at Rutgers University, affiliated with the Department of Human Ecology and the Law School. Her research focuses on global environmental governance, ocean law, climate change, and protection of the environment in relation to armed conflict. As Chair of the IUCN Ocean Law Specialist Group, she leads work on legal aspects of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement and contributed to IUCN’s 2024 climate change submission to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. A Fellow of the American College of Environmental Lawyers, Payne holds degrees from The Fletcher School and UC Berkeley.

Lisa A. Levin is a Distinguished Professor Emerita at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego. Her research examines the biodiversity of deep continental margin ecosystems, the effects of climate change (especially ocean deoxygenation) and human impacts on the deep ocean, with over 50 research cruises and 70 submersible dives in the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans. She has a leadership role in the Deep-Ocean Stewardship Initiative and co-leads the Climate Working Group. Dr. Levin is active in bringing climate science to policy and has contributed to multiple IPCC reports, UNFCCC Ocean Dialogues, World Ocean Assessments, the BBNJ Agreement and International Seabed Authority negotiations.  

Dr. Erik Cordes is a Full Professor and Chair of the Department of Biology, with over 30 years of experience studying deep-sea ecology. He has authored more than 100 scientific papers, participated in over 30 research cruises, and completed 47 dives in manned submersibles. A self-described ocean explorer and ecological oceanographer, Dr. Cordes has led expeditions across the East Coast, Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, Costa Rica, and the Phoenix Islands. He serves in the U.N. World Ocean Assessment’s Pool of Experts, on the Steering Committee for Challenger 150, and the Advisory Board of Earth Percent. Dedicated to sharing ocean science, he collaborates with artists, filmmakers, and musicians to inspire broader appreciation of the deep sea.

Dr. Ilysa Iglesias is an ocean scientist deeply interested in the ecological connections between ocean twilight zone (mesopelagic) communities and the broader ocean ecosystem. Her current research as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, uses a combination of catch and fisheries acoustics data to explore how changing oceanographic conditions shape the distribution and abundance of mesopelagic fishes within the California Current.

Joachim Claudet is Research Director and Ocean Advisor for CNRS, with expertise in biodiversity conservation, sustainability science, and ecosystem-based management. His interdisciplinary work bridges ecology, social sciences, and governance to develop actionable knowledge for decision-makers. Focusing on coastal and marine social-ecological systems, he studies how biodiversity loss affects human well-being and identifies solutions to mitigate those impacts. His research integrates multiple knowledge systems to evaluate trade-offs between conservation and sustainable development, ensuring that nature-based solutions are both effective and equitable. A lead author of several IPBES assessments, Claudet also contributes to international groups including ICES, the Ocean and Climate Platform, the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy, and IUCN. Joachim Claudet edited a book on marine protected areas at Cambridge University Press.

Liz Hetherington is a marine ecologist specializing in pelagic food webs and the science-policy interface. She earned her Ph.D. in Biology from UC San Diego in 2018. Following this, she conducted postdoctoral research in Anela Choy’s lab at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, focusing on gelatinous zooplankton in the California Current Ecosystem. Liz is currently a teaching professor at Scripps and co-leads the science-to-policy working group with the Deep Ocean Observing Strategy.

Dr. Diva Amon is a Caribbean marine biologist focused on the little-known habitats and animals of the deep ocean, and how our actions affect them. Driven by a commitment to deep-ocean stewardship and global engagement, she works at the nexus of science, policy and communication. Diva has participated in expeditions worldwide, produced over 80 publications, and delivered numerous presentations to decision-makers. Amon is a Science Advisor to the Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a Founder and Director of SpeSeas, an organization dedicated to marine science, education, and advocacy in her home country, Trinidad and Tobago. A 2020 National Geographic Emerging Explorer and a World Economic Forum Friend of Ocean Action, she earned her PhD from the University of Southampton.

Pradeep Singh is a Senior Project Manager at Oceano Azul Foundation in Lisbon, Portugal. He holds an LL.M degree from Harvard Law School, an LL.M. degree in Global Environment and Climate Change Law from the University of Edinburgh as a British Chevening scholar, and an LL.B. degree with first-class honours from the University of Malaya in his home country, Malaysia. Pradeep has published extensively on public international law, global environmental law and climate law, the law of the sea, and ocean governance. He regularly attends and participates in meetings of the International Seabed Authority, including until recently as a member of the IUCN delegation. Pradeep routinely provides legal advice to several delegates and supports governments on technical matters pertaining to marine areas beyond national jurisdiction.

Ruth became Chief Executive of Lloyd’s Register Foundation in 2022, having joined in 2014 to lead global programmes on resilience, risk, and safety innovation. 

She has a strong background in space and environmental regulation and previously chaired the Welding Institute and the TWI Innovation Network. Her leadership spans major collaborations with the Alan Turing Institute, Arup, Gallup, and the Safetytech Accelerator.

She is a Non-executive Director of Cefas – the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences – a UK Government appointment. She is the Chair of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health Board of Trustees and is a commissioner with the National Preparedness Commission.  

Philippa Charlton is the Chief Marketing Officer of Lloyd’s Register (LR) and member of the Executive Leadership team. 

Prior to joining LR, Philippa was CMO of Averda, a global waste management company operating across multiple industry sectors in recycling, waste to energy and engineering projects in both the public and private sector. Before that she was the Group Marketing Director of a global security business whose divisions included PGI Cyber, which specialised in cyber security reliance for Corporate and International Governments and PVI, one of the world’s leading maritime security companies. 

Her earlier career was spent in the paper and plastics industry in multiple international roles in both private and public businesses.

In her role as senior marine pilot, Elizabeth guides some of the world’s largest vessels safely through the Port of Mombasa. She is celebrated as the first female Marine Pilot and the first female Master Mariner in East and Central Africa - breaking barriers in a profession long dominated by men. With over a decade of seagoing experience, Captain Marami rose to Chief Officer Navigation with Royal Caribbean Group’s Celebrity Cruises, where she led navigation, dry-dock operations, and energy-efficiency retrofits aligned with IMO’s 2050 goals. Her expertise spans technical navigation, sustainable port operations, and green shipping strategies. She is currently pursuing an MBA in Operations Management, focusing on the cost impacts of carbon reduction strategies in African ports. Captain Marami is also the founder of Against the Tide Foundation, a mentorship platform amplifying women seafarers’ voices. Her motto: “I may have been the first but I promise I won’t be the last.”

Tim is Director of Skills and Education at Lloyd’s Register Foundation. He is responsible for building and leading a substantial and diverse portfolio of international programmes and activities to maximise impact in line with Lloyd’s Register Foundation’s charitable mission to “engineer a safer world.” He is a highly-skilled science and engineering education specialist operating at the highest levels internationally, bringing together key stakeholders and influencers from government, policy, education, industry and academia. He possesses wide-ranging experience of international science and engineering education agendas and providing strategic oversight of high-impact and engaging initiatives. He has been a researcher in industry and academia following his PhD in molecular genetics from the University of Leicester. He is also the Chair of the Maritime Charities Group, which is an alliance of major seafaring charities in the UK. It fosters collaboration across the maritime charity sector and supports the education and welfare of seafarers and their families.

Captain Stylianos Dimouleas has 35 years of experience in the shipping industry. He spent sixteen years as an Officer and Master on large oil tankers, including two years overseeing construction of Aframax, Suezmax, and VLCC tankers in major shipyards in Japan and Korea. He subsequently held various managerial roles in the shipping sector, before becoming the CEO of Almi Tankers S.A. in 2013.

Captain Dimouleas has forged significant strategic partnerships, deals and negotiations with the most reputable Oil Majors, Oil Trading Companies, and other major industry stakeholders worldwide. He also led new building projects involving some of the most advanced designs of Suezmax and VLCC tankers. Moreover, he leads the continual improvement of an integrated management system, recognised by international accreditations such as ISO 9001, 14001, 45001, 50001, 22301and 27001. Under his leadership, his team has emerged as a top-tier oil transportation service provider, earning several awards and notable recognitions from charterers, and various industry bodies. He led the “Investors in People” standard accreditation, and he was instrumental in achieving the “We Invest in Wellbeing” standard accreditation that were offered to a shipping company for the first time in Greece. Actively engaging with the industry, he participates in various initiatives and forums focusing on the industry’s future challenges. He has authored industry-related articles and is a guest lecturer for an elective course of a top-tier Master’s program in Shipping in the UK. Since September 2023 he has been appointed by the University of Piraeus as Clinical Professor of the MSc in Shipping Management as well as student Mentor.

Captain Dimouleas holds a Master’s level PGDip in Organisational Leadership from the University of Oxford – Said Business School. He also has a Captain’s Class A license, a Level 5 Extended Diploma from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), UK, and a Chartered Manager qualification. He is also a DBA candidate in Strategic Management since Oct 2024.

He is a council member of Intertanko, and he’s affiliated with the Said Business School, the Nautical Institute UK, the Chartered Management Institute UK, Pembroke College UK, and the Hellenic Shipmaster’s Association.

Professor Momoko Kitada is a globally recognised expert in maritime education, gender equity, and innovation. At the World Maritime University (WMU), she leads research and teaching on the human element of shipping, with a focus on inclusive transitions and sustainable development. As Nippon Foundation Professorial Chair in Gender and Innovation, she plays a strategic role in the Global Maritime Trends 2050 programme, a collaboration with Lloyd’s Register Foundation that explores future risks and opportunities across the maritime system. A former seafarer, Professor Kitada brings lived experience to her work on workforce inclusion, safety, and climate resilience. She is a certified Gender Audit Facilitator and works closely with the International Maritime Organization to advance equity in maritime policy and practice. Her leadership bridges academic insight and sector transformation, helping shape a safer, more inclusive ocean economy.

Dr. Renis Ojwala is a researcher at the World Maritime University. Her work looks at how to make the maritime sector fairer, safer, and more sustainable - especially for women and underrepresented communities. She plays an important role in the Global Maritime Trends 2050 programme, a partnership with Lloyd’s Register Foundation that explores future risks and opportunities in shipping and ocean work. Renis co-wrote the Deep Dive on Seafarer Sustainability report, which highlights global crew shortages and calls for better support for African and female seafarers. Her research connects climate change, safety, and workforce inclusion, always focusing on the real-life experiences of maritime workers. Renis is a strong advocate for fair transitions and is widely respected for her contributions to global maritime discussions.

Anastasia Kouvertari is the Senior Lead, Human Competency for the Human Safety & Risk team of the Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub (The Decarb Hub), with professional expertise in managing projects related to GHG emission reduction, new fuels adoption and workforce training for shipping’s green transition. She represents The Decarb Hub as project manager in the “baseline training for seafarers in decarbonisation” project led by the Maritime Just Transition Taskforce, the first global sectoral task force dedicated to a just transition for the maritime industry. 

Anastasia first joined Lloyd’s Register (LR) in 2004, holding several positions as environmental specialist, product manager and project manager in LR’s Marine & Offshore business. She holds a Master of Science in Environment & Development from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and is an Associate Member with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA).

Nick joined Lloyd’s Register (LR) in 1996 and was appointed CEO in January 2021. In an extensive career with LR, he has worked as a ship surveyor in Bahrain, Dubai, Finland and Germany before moving to China to spend seven years leading LR’s activities in the country. He has since been Director for Business Development and Innovation, Marine Chief Operating Officer and Marine and Offshore Director. His focus as CEO is to deliver LR’s vision of ‘working together for a safe, sustainable and thriving ocean economy’, improving the performance, safety and sustainability of their clients’ businesses through LR’s trusted advice, insight and expertise.

Nick holds prominent roles in several key maritime organisations. He sits on the Supervisory Board of the UK Chamber of Shipping, the Advisory Council of the Global Maritime Forum, and the Maritime International Advisory Panel in Singapore. These positions highlight his significant influence and expertise in the global shipping and maritime industry.

Dr. Gemma Connell is Youth Engagement Lead at Ocean Generation, a UK Charity and marine conservation NGO. She moved into Ocean conservation and science communication after 15 years in the performing arts industry. She has a PhD in Dance and now facilitates workshops, develops educational programmes for young people, engages in research and develops resources using Ocean Generation's brand of Ocean Intelligence across the UK and beyond.

Marea Hatziolos is a retired marine ecologist and international development specialist with over 40 years of experience working at the intersection of marine conservation and sustainable development.  She received her undergraduate degree in Biology from Wellesley College and earned a PhD in Zoology and Ecology from UC, Berkeley. Following postdocs in Mexico and at Yale University, Marea launched a life-long career in International Development after accepting an American Association for the Advancement of Science Diplomacy fellowship at USAID. Following a decade working with USAID, Marea joined the World Bank where she advocated for the need to incorporate coastal and marine sustainability concerns into the Bank’s operations and policies. There, she led the Bank’s early work on marine biodiversity conservation, designed and led the Bank’s first transboundary marine program to sustainably manage the MesoAmerican Barrier Reef, raised awareness about the ocean’s central role in the global economy and the need for policy reform across key sectors to achieve higher and sustainable returns, and worked to incorporate rights-based management into climate resilience of vulnerable coastal communities. Since retiring from the World Bank, Marea remains engaged in ocean stewardship, including mentoring emerging ocean leaders and advising decision makers through her work on various boards.

Jasdeep Randhawa is the Ocean Lead at the UN Climate Change Secretariat. She supports the co-facilitators in delivering the mandated Ocean and Climate Change Dialogue, enhancing ocean-based climate ambition in national climate goals, integrating ocean across relevant UNFCCC constituted bodies, and strengthening inter-agency coordination on the ocean. She also supports Parties to periodically review the adequacy of the long-term global goal on temperature, and the progress towards achieving it.

Previously, she worked with UN-Habitat as the Coordinator of the Cities and Climate Change Science Initiative and led the IPCC partnership.

She holds dual degrees in Law and Public Policy.

Loreley Picourt is the Executive Director of the Ocean & Climate Platform (OCP) – an international network from civil society mobilised for “a healthy ocean, a protected climate”. As a strong advocate for multilateral cooperation, she works at the science-policy interface for a better integration of the ocean-climate-biodiversity nexus into decision-making. 

At the UNFCCC, Loreley is the ‘Ocean and Coastal Zones’ focal point of the Marrakech Partnership for Global Climate Action Agenda, where she coordinates the Ocean Breakthroughs campaign to scale-up ocean-based climate solutions. For COP30, Loreley has joined the COP Secretariat to co-chair the Activation Group on "Efforts to preserve and restore ocean and coastal ecosystems". 

Loreley is also a Friend of Ocean Action and an Edinburgh Ocean Leader.

Dr. Gardner is a Mexican-American who has spent three decades as a bridge-builder working at the interface between science, policy and international environmental governance. Since beginning her career as a marine scientist in Mexico, she has been driven by the recognition that healthy ecosystems are foundational to human well-being and resilience. In her current position as the Director of the Ecosystems Division of the UN Environment Programme based in Kenya, she leads global programmes to support countries to protect, restore, and sustainably manage natural ecosystems, from land to the high seas. With projects in over 125 countries, her work has fostered cross-sectoral collaboration to help countries advance science-based solutions to meet their biodiversity, climate, and land degradation neutrality goals.

Mr. Adam McCarthy is Chief Counsel and First Assistant Secretary, Legal Division at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).Prior to this he was First Assistant Secretary, Multilateral Policy Division. From 2015 to 2019, he served as Australia’s High Commissioner to South Africa with accreditation to Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique and Namibia. Mr. McCarthy served as Deputy High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Australian Representative to the Commonwealth Board of Governors from 2009-2012. His previous postings were to Washington DC and Wellington NZ. In Canberra, Mr. McCarthy has worked in a range of positions primarily in the multilateral, trade, legal and arms control fields, including from 2006 to 2009 as Assistant Secretary, International Legal Branch, and as Assistant Secretary, Africa Branch. Mr McCarthy was elected as co-chair of the Preparatory Commission of the Agreement under UNCLOS on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) in June 2024. Mr McCarthy is married with two children and enjoys tennis, diving and fishing.

Lisa A. Levin is a Distinguished Professor Emerita at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego. Her research examines the biodiversity of deep continental margin ecosystems, the effects of climate change (especially ocean deoxygenation) and human impacts on the deep ocean, with over 50 research cruises and 70 submersible dives in the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans. She has a leadership role in the Deep-Ocean Stewardship Initiative and co-leads the Climate Working Group. Dr. Levin is active in bringing climate science to policy and has contributed to multiple IPCC reports, UNFCCC Ocean Dialogues, World Ocean Assessments, the BBNJ Agreement and International Seabed Authority negotiations.  

Ambassador María Elvira Velásquez Rivas-Plata is the Secretary General of the Permanent Commission for the South Pacific (CPPS). A Peruvian diplomat with studies in law, international relations and a Master of Science in  Use of the Sea from the London School of Economics. 

She is a former Ambassador  to the Holy See, Malta, and the Sovereign Order of Malta,  Consul in Loja, Ecuador,  and has served as Director-General for Sovereignty, Boundaries, and Antarctic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and as Alternate Representative to the IMO and the UN agencies in Vienna, among other positions.

Dr. Filimon Manoni was appointed the Pacific Ocean Commissioner by the Forum Leaders in February of 2023 after having served three years in the role of Deputy Secretary General at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat. He transitioned from that role to the role of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner on August 1, 2023. Dr. Manoni initially joined the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in December of 2018 as the International Legal Adviser and was responsible for providing legal and policy advice and analysis on regional issues inclusive of issues connected to Ocean governance. Prior to joining the Forum Secretariat, Dr. Manoni served as the Attorney General for the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, again dealing with both legal and policy work on international issues of national and regional interest. He also served as a Legal Adviser at the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) from 2013 to 2016.

With an Environmental Science background and 6+ years’ experience, Esther is experienced in Environment, Marine Conservation focused on plastic pollution, ecosystems restoration, blue economy, and Biodiversity Governance. Notably, she has worked as an Associate Environment Expert in the private sector, as a consultant with the International Coral Reef Intiative, the International Training Centre of the ILO, and as a Youth Policy Advisor with the Sustainable Ocean Alliance. Currently, Esther serves as the Country Coordinator of the Kenyan Youth Biodiversity Network, where she provides strategic leadership and oversight on initiatives focusing on youth engagement in biodiversity conservation, policy, and advocacy, after previously serving as the organization’s Marine Action Coordinator. Her work seeks to inspire collaborative action that galvanizes integrated land-sea governance and coordinated protection of these ecosystems.

Jo Ruxton is a passionate campaigner for the Ocean, she started the first marine programme for WWF in Hong Kong and helped to establish the first Marine Protected Areas there.  She was a Producer at the BBC Natural History Unit and a key member of BBC’s dive team.

Jo left the BBC to make her multi-award-winning documentary, A Plastic Ocean and founded the UK-registered charity Ocean Generation to continue its legacy.

Ruth became Chief Executive of Lloyd’s Register Foundation in 2022, having joined in 2014 to lead global programmes on resilience, risk, and safety innovation. 

She has a strong background in space and environmental regulation and previously chaired the Welding Institute and the TWI Innovation Network. Her leadership spans major collaborations with the Alan Turing Institute, Arup, Gallup, and the Safetytech Accelerator.

She is a Non-executive Director of Cefas – the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences – a UK Government appointment. She is the Chair of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health Board of Trustees and is a commissioner with the National Preparedness Commission.  

Dr. María José González-Bernat is Director of the Ocean Program at the Interamerican Association for Environmental Defense (AIDA).

Maria Jose Gonzalez-Bernat is a Guatemalan biologist with over 16 years of experience in marine, coastal, and estuarine ecosystem management and conservation. Based in Colombia since 2019, she holds a Ph.D. in marine and coastal governance and a master’s degree in marine science, studying ocean acidification impacts on marine life.

She has worked with government and NGOs on research, project management, and policy development for marine conservation.  Skilled in leading multidisciplinary teams and fundraising, she excels in strategic resource management and marine and ocean governance.

Personally, she is kind, proactive, and deeply committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Andrei Polejack (he/his) is the Director for Research and Innovation at INPO – Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Oceânicas (the Brazilian National Institute for Ocean Research). PhD in Maritime Affairs from the World Maritime University, Sweden and MSc. in Evolutionary Ecology from Universidade de Brasília, Brasil, formerly acted as the Coordinator for Ocean, Antarctica and Geosciences at the Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. Interested in Ocean Science Diplomacy as a field of study and theoretically passionate about post- and de-colonial reasoning applied to international relations and its many ways of linking with ocean science.

Camille Bourgeon is Technical Officer in charge of the regulatory development and policy coordination unit / Climate action and clean air section in IMO. In the IMO Secretariat, he supports and facilitates intergovernmental negotiations in developing global regulatory frameworks and policies for international shipping, focusing on clean air and climate change issues (MARPOL Annex VI).

Geoffrey Pouget is a strategic communication advisor and founder of Amarres Conseil. He supports executives and public or private organizations on leadership communication, media relations, and public positioning. He also advises leaders involved in sustainable development, particularly on ocean issues and water resource management, and contributed to the “Citizen of the Ocean” coalition workshops ahead of the UN Ocean Conference 2025. Geoffrey develops communication and influence strategies across France and Europe. Amarres Conseil is based between Rennes (Brittany) and Paris.

Louna Wemaere is in charge of European advocacy for the NGO QuotaClimat and knowledge manager on climate disinformation. Passionate about politics and environmental science, Louna has worked at the OECD and the Ministry of Ecological Transition on environmental public policies.

Aditi Yadav is a Marine Sciences graduate with a research focus in marine ecology and environmental toxicology. Her work examines ecosystem dynamics of invasive species and the ecological impacts of plastic pollution. She has collaborated with the Laboratory of Oceanology and Geosciences (LOG) in Wimereux, France, and the Ministry of Earth Sciences – NCPOR in Goa, India. She also volunteers with EcoSpectrum, promoting ocean literacy among neurodivergent communities. Aditi recently contributed to the Citizen of the Ocean initiative presented at the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference, advancing youth-led, science-based advocacy for SDG 14.

Ayesha Hanif is a young environmental scientist from Pakistan, currently working as a Programme Officer - WASH at Muslim Hands and as a volunteer researcher with Marine Conservation Pakistan. Her experience spans climate action, sustainability, water resource management, environmental impact assessments, decarbonization, and nature-based solutions, with published work on microplastics. Ayesha is a youth advocate for climate and ocean governance, representing Pakistan and the Global South on forums like the Citizens of the Ocean Summit in Boulogne-sur-mer in March 2025, where she contributed to the Global Youth Manifesto for Ocean Protection presented at the UNOC in Nice in June 2025.

Francisca González Salas is an ocean advocate, marine biologist, and law student at the Catholic University of the North of Chile. She is a part of ECOP Chile and of Citizens of the Ocean. Her passion for ocean protection, since ocean justice with a gender perspective, inspired her to collaborate in diverse instances of research and in youth movements related to marine policy.

Lolita Couchene serves as Advocacy Officer and Spokesperson at Nausicaá, French National Sea Centre, where she develops and implements advocacy strategies to promote ocean protection and sustainable development. She previously worked with the United Nations Environment Programme in New York, contributing to intergovernmental processes on environmental governance, and has represented youth voices through World’s Youth for Climate Justice. A graduate of Sciences Po Rennes with a Master’s in Future Generations and Legal Transitions, she is committed to advancing ocean literacy and fostering dialogue between science, policy, and civil society.

Dr Tom Roland is an environmental scientist working at the intersection of palaeoecology and contemporary ecology. His research uses biological, geochemical, and geochronological techniques to investigate how environments and climates have changed — and continue to change — over time. With a particular focus on the Southern Hemisphere, Tom has conducted fieldwork across the Antarctic Peninsula, Peru, New Zealand, and Patagonia, studying a range of records from high-altitude wetlands to coastal and shallow-marine systems. His work provides vital insights into past environmental dynamics and their implications for the future of our planet’s ecosystems.

Jamie Buchanan-Dunlop is an environmental educator and founder of Encounter Edu, leading the education and outreach programme for the Convex Seascape Survey (CSS). His work connects scientists with classrooms worldwide through live lessons, digital resources, and interactive films that have already engaged hundreds of thousands of young people in understanding the ocean’s role in climate. Jamie has worked with research teams from the Arctic to the tropics, designing ways to translate complex marine science into learning experiences that inspire curiosity and action among the next generation.

Laura Khatib is the French-Lebanese co-founder of the NGO Guardians of the Blue based in Byblos, Lebanon, and an independent consultant. She is leading community-driven citizen science, underwater cleanups, lionfish invasion mitigation and awareness initiatives, and supporting the development of the future MPA of Byblos. She is passionate about reconnecting local communities to the ocean and sharing the beauty of local marine biodiversity. Laura is also the co-lead of the Early Career Ocean Professionals' Ocean Literacy task team and a Steering Committee member of the UNESCO/IOC Ocean Literacy With All Programme.

Paola Sangolquí is a marine biologist with a master's degree in Biology and Society and is pursuing a doctorate in Ecology, Economics, and Ethics of Ecosystems. She has 10 years of experience in the public and private sectors, with an emphasis on project planning and monitoring. She has led interdisciplinary initiatives focused on monitoring key ecosystems and species, spatial management, conservation of marine protected areas, and prevention of wildlife trafficking. She currently leads the Marine Conservation Program at the Jocotoco Foundation.

Udayanga Sampath is a PhD scholar at the Ocean University of Sri Lanka and a national coordinator of the ECOP Sri Lanka node. His research focuses on marine mammal conservation and acoustic monitoring in the central Indian Ocean. With over seven years in academia, he is committed to technology-driven research that supports community livelihoods and conservation. He advocates for stronger science communication to ensure research creates real-world impact and bridges the gap between science and society through community engagement and progressive policies.

Xochitl is a postdoctoral researcher specializing in the sustainability and resilience of social-ecological systems, with a particular focus on small-scale fisheries. Their research explores adaptation and transformation processes within fishing communities facing the impacts of climate change. Since 2022, Xochitl serves as the Coordinator of the Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOP) Central America node, which aims to strengthen and highlight Central America’s participation in the UN Ocean Decade at national, regional, and international levels.

Conor Savage is a sustainable finance leader, early career polar & marine scientist, and local Councillor from Edinburgh, United Kingdom.

Conor has valuable experience in environmental, social and governance (ESG) activity within the finance sector, covering key topics such as climate change, human rights, and the nature crisis. He most recently headed up sustainability for one of the UK's supermarket banks, developing and delivering their ESG strategy.

Conor has an academic background in Marine Biology, completing both a BSc and MSc at Bangor University, specialising in the impacts of climate change on the Arctic, and how it adversely affects the sea ice-reliant/sea ice-associated species that inhabit it.

Whilst Conor now works in the finance sector, he continues to volunteer with many organisations in the polar and marine fields. This includes, but is not limited to, the UN Ocean Decade ECOP Programme and UK National Decade Committee, IMarEST, the UK Polar Network, and APECS.

Martin Alessandrini is Advocacy and International Cooperation Officer at the Tara Ocean Foundation, where he works to raise awareness and mobilize decision-makers in favor of ocean protection. He works in particular on policies related to ocean governance and plastic pollution, and regularly speaks at international conferences and events related to the ocean. He is an environmental engineer specializing in marine ecosystems and holds a degree in political science.

Ross Gracey is a PhD student at the University of Liverpool and a marine biogeochemist. My research focuses on the relationship between variations in nutrient cycles and phytoplankton biodiversity within the Southern Ocean, with a specialised interest in diatom communities. He utilises state-of-the-art instruments and analytical tools, including the Imaging FlowCytobot (IFCB), to gain high resolution spatiotemporal imaging insights into the phytoplankton community composition. His research aims to understand the drivers of abundance and distribution of specific phytoplankton groups, aiming to improve climate model predictions of how the Southern Ocean ecosystem responds to future climate scenarios.

Alessandro Tagliabue is a Professor in Ocean Sciences at the University of Liverpool. He uses complex numerical models of ocean ecosystems, alongside observational data to assess the impact of climate change on nutrient cycling and marine productivity. Alessandro is the co-chair of the Scientific Steering Committee of the international GEOTRACES programme, was a lead author of the IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate (SROCC) and is a lead author of the IPCC Working Group 1 Seventh Assessment Report (AR7).

Nova Mieszkowska is a physiological ecologist interested in identifying the biological mechanisms in invertebrates and macroalgae that underpin the macroecological responses to climate warming and ocean acidification. Her current research using combined laboratory and field experiments is investigating how increasing temperatures are altering reproductive cycles and impacting recruitment and the effects of climate change on invasive capabilities of non-natives.

Claire Mahaffey is a marine biogeochemist interested in the cycling of nutrients and carbon in the ocean, the connection between nutrients, plankton and food webs and the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems. She studies nutrients and plankton in a wide range of marine environments, from coastal and shelf sea waters, to the subtropical open ocean and most recently, the Arctic Ocean.

Ric Williams is a Professor in Ocean and Climate Sciences at University of Liverpool, conducting research on how physical processes operate in the ocean and their effect on climate and the carbon cycle. Recent research highlights include how warming stripes for temperature extend from the surface to the rest of the ocean and to the overlying atmosphere (Hawkins et al., 2025; BAMS, doi.org/10.1175/BAMS-D-24-0212.1) and how there are hemispheric differences in the ocean uptake of heat and anthropogenic carbon (Williams et al., 2024, Nature Climate Change, doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-02066-3). He has jointly written a text book on Ocean Dynamics and the Carbon Cycle.

Chris Hughes is Professor of Sea Level Science at the University of Liverpool. His research focuses on the relationship between ocean dynamics, sea level, ocean bottom pressure, and geodesy (the science of measuring the Earth's shape, orientation, and gravity field). Chris is currently most interested in how the global continental slope acts to simplify the ocean circulation, and to connect (or disconnect) coastal sea level to sea level in the ocean's interior. The steep slope produces strong dynamical constraints on pressure variations along the slope, which has a profound influence on the global circulation, and on the interconnections between ocean basins.

Jamie Wilson is a Lecturer in Ocean Sciences and UKRI Future Leaders Fellow at the University of Liverpool. His research focuses on the interactions between marine plankton ecosystems, biogeochemistry, the carbon cycle and climate. He primarily develops and uses Earth System Models of ocean biogeochemistry and the Earth system.

Miriam Balgos is Executive Director of the Global Ocean Forum and concurrent Project Manager-Capacity Development Specialist of a GEF-funded UNEP project on developing capacity for cross-sectoral management and governance of marine areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ). Across her current and previous positions, Miriam has focused on integrated ocean and coastal management, marine protected areas, ABNJ, and ocean and climate change. Miriam, from the Philippines,  co-founded the Virtual Ocean Pavilion with Prof. Carol Turley and Ms. Thecla Keizer of Plymouth Marine Laboratory and has coordinated its organization since its first iteration at COP26 in Glasgow.

Catie Mitchell is a Policy Analyst with the Global Ocean Forum and has been part of the Virtual Ocean Pavilion team since COP28. She supports the implementation of the Common Oceans Cross-sectoral Project, a GEF-funded UNEP initiative aimed at strengthening cross-sectoral management and governance of marine areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ). Catie holds a Master of Science in Marine Biological Resources from Ghent University through the IMBRSea Erasmus Programme. Her previous research explored the interactions between coral reef ecosystems and fisheries. She transitioned into marine policy after joining the Global Ocean Forum in 2023 and contributes to programs advancing the sustainable management of ABNJ and promoting evidence-based ocean governance.

Dr. Peter J. Ricketts is Professor of Earth and Environmental Science, Acadia University and Board Director, Global Ocean Forum. He was Acadia University’s 16th President and Vice-Chancellor from 2017 to 2023. Dr. Ricketts earned his BA (Honours) degree in Geography at the University of Nottingham in 1974 and his PhD from the University of Southampton in 1982. He is internationally-recognized for his expertise in coastal zones and ocean management. Before his appointment at Acadia, Dr. Ricketts served as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Carleton University in Ottawa from 2009 to 2017, where he was also Professor of Geography and Environmental Studies. He has extensive experience as a senior university administrator, having also served as Vice-President (Academic and Research) at Nipissing University, in North Bay, ON (2006-2009); Vice-President, Academic and then President of Okanagan University College (2000-2005) in Kelowna, BC; Dean of Graduate Studies at Dalhousie University (1995-2000) in Halifax, NS, and the first Director of Research at Saint Mary’s University (1989-1994). Ricketts served two terms as President (1998-99 and 1999-2000) and one term as Vice-President (1997-1998) of the Canadian Association of Graduate Studies.

A Marine Ethnobiologist, Educator, and Knowledge Mobilization Expert specializing in community engagement, the ocean–climate nexus, and ocean governance. An IPCC Report Reviewer and Member of the Social Ocean Working Group, she has led global initiatives advancing ocean advocacy, equity, and inclusive governance. With experience in fundraising, co-design, participatory approaches, and strategic partnerships, she fosters informed and engaged citizens through capacity development and creative community outreach, making knowledge and international treaties accessible to all while bridging science, policy, and society for a sustainable ocean future.

Marketa is an ocean governance consultant providing technical and strategic support to the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in coordinating international partnerships and initiatives on marine biodiversity, including engagement in intergovernmental processes. Advancing the holistic implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in the ocean, she has supported marine negotiations under the CBD, capacity-building workshops, and global and regional partnerships through the Sustainable Ocean Initiative, as well as the process for describing and updating ecologically or biologically significant marine areas. Marketa holds an MSc in Climate Change, Development and Policy, and a BA in Political Science focused on international affairs.

Torsten Thiele is an international expert in ocean governance and sustainable blue finance, drawing on over 20 years experience in project and infrastructure finance and a decade of ocean research and practice. He is Founder of Global Ocean Trust and Senior Advisor, Blue Finance to ORRAA. Recent publications address high seas finance, climate policy, coastal infrastructure, nature-based solutions and innovative ocean governance. He is member of various advisory committees on ocean topics, holds degrees from the universities of Cambridge, Bonn and Harvard and is an Honorary Fellow at Plymouth Marine Laboratory.

Whitney Berry is the Associate Director of Climate Policy at Ocean Conservancy, supporting the organization’s work to protect the ocean through advancing ocean-climate solutions. In her role, Whitney helps to advance strategic ocean-climate policy at the international, federal and state levels, and her portfolio includes ocean-based mitigation and adaptation solutions to combat climate change. She brings valuable experience to Ocean Conservancy, gained from years of working to protect the ocean and coasts and address climate change. Previously, Whitney worked for the State of California’s Natural Resources Agency as a cabinet-level Climate Change Policy Manager within the office of the Ocean Protection Council. Prior to her position with the California Natural Resources Agency, Whitney was a California Sea Grant Fellow. She graduated from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies with a master’s degree of International Environmental Policy and a concentration in Ocean and Coastal Resource Management. She received her bachelor's degree from San Diego State University - California in Natural Resource Conservation and Environmental Analysis with a focus on ocean and coastal ecosystems.

Dr. Indumathie Hewawasam serves on the Board of Directors of the Global Ocean Forum. She is the President of Sustainable Oceans and Coasts LLC, with a mission of building capacity in developing countries to govern ocean and coastal resources in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. Prior to launching this company, Indu served for 22 years in the World Bank as a Senior Environmental Specialist designing and managing projects primarily focused on marine and coastal resources management. Besides working at the World Bank’s Head Office in Washington, DC she also carried out an extended assignment in Tanzania for 4 years, working on projects in Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique and South Africa. Her work included support to formulate legislation and strengthen institutions to promote sound governance of deep-sea fisheries, establish and strengthen marine protected areas and promote sustainable coastal livelihoods. Her post-World Bank experience included a position in The Nature Conservancy as Senior Marine Adviser working on the Coral Triangle Initiative in East Asia and the Pacific. As President of her company, she carries out consulting work for the World Bank in India, and provides advisory services to the Governments of Sri Lanka and Zanzibar, on a volunteer basis. Her projects in Sri Lanka include promoting empowerment of women in coastal areas to manage marine and coastal resources in a sustainable manner.  She holds a doctoral degree in Marine Policy and is based in Washington, DC, USA.

Senior Professor and researcher of the EPOMEX Institute, biologist with a master and PhD on Marine Policy, former Minister of the Environment of the State Government of Campeche; former coordinator of the 6th National Communication on Climate Change for Mexico; former President of the Scientific-Policy Advisory Committee of the Inter-American Institute for the Research of Global Change; IPCC Lead Author for the Special Report on Oceans and Cryosphere; Member of the Policy Advisory Board of the Global Ocean Forum; National focal point of the IBERMAR Network on Coastal Management; National coordinator of the International Network of Coasts and Seas, RICOMAR since 2007; Member of Honor of the International Network Stephen Olsen Chair on Coastal Management; Member of the CND of the PPD/UNDP; Member of the Mexican Committee of the Oceanic Sciences Decade.

Aimee T, Gonzales is currently the Executive Director of the Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA), a regional coordinating mechanism to foster healthy and resilient coasts and oceans through applying science based integrated management solutions and strategic partnerships in the East Asian Seas. She has more than 20 years of analytical and advocacy experience on sustainable marine and fisheries governance and policy reforms with WWF International. Before working with WWF, Aimee served as Head Executive Assistant to two Cabinet Secretaries of the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Aimee holds a Masters on Environmental Assessment and Education from the London School of Economics and a Masters’ Degree in Public Policy from the National University of Singapore.

Christopher Corbin is the Coordinator of the UNEP Cartagena Convention Secretariat in Kingston, Jamaica. With over 30 years in environmental governance, he has led major reforms advancing regional cooperation on marine pollution, oil spills, and biodiversity protection. He has strengthened inter-regional partnerships on nutrient management, marine protected areas, and sargassum response, while promoting digital transformation and stakeholder engagement. A former Saint Lucia delegate to global environmental forums and a published author, Christopher continues to champion Caribbean leadership in global ocean policy and governance.

Pablo Escribano is the Regional Thematic Specialist of the International Organization for Migration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change, covering Latin America and the Caribbean from the Regional Office in Panama. Previously, Pablo worked at IOM’s Headquarters in Geneva, and in the IOM Regional Offices in Brussels and in Dakar. Pablo holds a master's degree in political science and history from Sciences Po Paris.

Aygün Karlı is a research assistant at Atılım University in the Department of Political Science and Public Administration. His academic research focuses on marine social science, with a specific emphasis on climate and marine governance/policy. He holds BSc (2017) and MA (2020) degrees from Ankara University, Faculty of Political Sciences-Mülkiye, and is currently a PhD candidate in Public Administration at Hacettepe University. He coordinated EU-funded projects, was a Project Associate on AFD-funded ones, and is a founding member of the Global Climate Academy. He holds the title of young ocean advocate, accredited by the European Commission.

Dr. Ben Moat is an ocean and climate scientist at the UK’s National Oceanography Centre. He plays a leading role in understanding the Atlantic oceans stability and the risk of ocean tipping points. His research, through the RAPID 26°N programme, tracks changes in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)—a key system that regulates heat transport and climate patterns. His work uses long-term observations to detect early warning signals of AMOC weakening, which could disrupt weather, rainfall, and sea level across Europe. His efforts highlight how sustained ocean observing is vital to anticipate abrupt climate shifts and safeguard societies dependent on ocean stability.

Professor Tim Lenton is the founding Director of the Global Systems Institute at the University of Exeter and Chair in Climate Change and Earth System Science. He has more than 25 years research experience, focused on modelling of the biosphere, climate, biogeochemical cycles, and associated tipping points. Tim is renowned for his work identifying climate tipping points, which informed the setting of the 1.5C climate target, associated net zero targets, and nationally determined contributions. 

Tim works with policymakers and businesses helping them assess the risks of climate change and nature loss and highlighting the opportunities for ‘positive tipping points’ that can accelerate change towards net zero. In 2023, Professor Lenton led a team of more than 200 people from over 90 organisations in 26 countries to produce an authoritative assessment of the risks and opportunities of both negative and positive tipping points in the Earth system and society. The ‘Global Tipping Points Report’ produced in partnership with Bezos Earth Fund was published at COP28. 

Dr. Louise Sime leads the Ice Dynamics and Paleoclimate Team and heads the Earth System Modelling Group at the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). She specialises in polar climate research, studying ice sheets, sea ice, and climate change across timescales from seasonal to multi-millennial. Her work focuses on past tipping events and on assessing the accuracy of climate models in predicting polar and global tipping points.

Viktoria Spaiser is a Professor of Climate Politics and Computational Social Science at the School of Politics and International Studies, University of Leeds. She is also affiliated with the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures. Viktoria Spaiser has contributed to both Global Tipping Points Reports (2023, 2025), assessing cascading societal, systemic risks of Earth System Tipping Points, such as the AMOC collapse and exploring Earth System Tipping Points governance approaches and strategies. She has also received the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship award for her research on societal responses to the escalating climate crisis. 

Prof. Alex Rogers is a marine ecologist with over 30 years of experience in exploring the biodiversity of hotspot ecosystems in the deep-sea including seamounts, hydrothermal vents, and cold-water coral reefs. He has also worked on how to mitigate human impacts on deep-sea ecosystems and to conserve deep-sea life. Alex’s work has an applied aspects in terms of development of policies related to the management and conservation of marine ecosystems particularly with respect to biodiversity. This has included studies on the implementation of new guidelines and agreements in the high seas as well as the implications for science of such policy developments. Alex is also a Visiting Professor at the Dept. of Biology, University of Oxford and Senior Research Fellow at Somerville College, University of Oxford.

Arianwen Herbert is a PhD student in Interdisciplinary Bioscience at the University of Oxford, a passionate science communicator, presenter for New Scientist, and a 'STEM-fluencer' through her social media platform, @scienceformymum. Graduating from the University of Warwick with a master’s in Biochemistry in 2023, she turned her attention to one of the most pressing issues of our world today: the relationship between our ocean and climate. In her research, she investigates how microscopic plankton communities respond to changing nutrient conditions in the open ocean, with a mission to understand how these tiny organisms regulate carbon sequestration and shape global climate feedbacks in a warming world.

Janice Trotte-Duhá is the Director of Infrastructure and Operations at the National Institute for Ocean Research (INPO), Brazil. She was General Coordinator for Oceans and Antarctica at the Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation and Adviser for International Affairs at the Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation, Brazilian Navy, among other positions held.

Leticia Cotrim is Associate Professor for Chemical Oceanography at Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). She is a member of the Rede Clima and co-chairs the National Ocean Acidification Network aka BrOA. She is also Coordinating Lead Author for the upcoming IPCC 7th Report.

Peter Teye Busumprah is the CEO of Ocean Rock Base, a Ghana-based environmental NGO focused on ocean conservation. He is an oceanographer and advocate who founded the organization in 2024, drawing on his background as a fisherman and his studies at the University of Ghana. His work includes developing technology to help local fishermen and collaborating with international bodies on ocean-based solutions. 

Dr. Susana Vinzon is a coastal engineer and professor at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), known for her expertise in cohesive sediment dynamics, particularly within the Amazon River Estuary. Her research has shifted to include a case study in Guanabara Bay that focuses on integrating local and academic expertise for mangrove restoration and the management of floating waste.

Dr. Vinzon holds a doctorate in Oceanic Engineering from UFRJ and has specialized in cohesive sediment dynamics, including study at the University of Florida. Her early and prominent work centered on the complex sedimentological processes of the Amazon, which is the world's largest river basin.

Juliet leads a team focusing on observations, modelling and research of the marine environment around southern Africa as part of the National Research Foundation’s South African Environmental Observation Network. In addition, Juliet manages the South African Polar Research Infrastructure and is a Professor at the University of Cape Town and the Nelson Mandela University. 

Tammy, a physical oceanographer with extensive in-field experience in the South West Indian and South Atlantic Oceans using a variety of ocean observing instruments and platforms, is the Ocean and Polar Coordinator of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI). Tammy collaborates with researchers at the national, regional and international panel. She is a member of the Argo Steering Team (AST) as the South African focal point, the Ocean and Polar Coordinator at the SAEON Egagasini Node, and oversees a team of seven people to implement marine and polar ocean observing objectives of the South African marine science community, among other positions held.

Susanna Lidström is an environmental historian who studies the history of ocean science and governance, with a focus on the deep ocean. She is a senior researcher at the Division of History of Science, Technology and Environment at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden, a visiting scholar at the Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at University of California San Diego in the USA, and a member of the Deep-Ocean Stewardship Initiative. She is founding co-editor of the forthcoming journal Anthropocene History (Duke University Press).

Lisa A. Levin is a Distinguished Professor Emerita at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego. Her research examines the biodiversity of deep continental margin ecosystems, the effects of climate change (especially ocean deoxygenation) and human impacts on the deep ocean, with over 50 research cruises and 70 submersible dives in the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans. She has a leadership role in the Deep-Ocean Stewardship Initiative and co-leads the Climate Working Group. Dr. Levin is active in bringing climate science to policy and has contributed to multiple IPCC reports, UNFCCC Ocean Dialogues, World Ocean Assessments, the BBNJ Agreement and International Seabed Authority negotiations.  

Dr. Anna Metaxas, a Killam Professor at Dalhousie University, is an expert in marine seafloor ecology and ecological connectivity of shallow and deep-sea ecosystems. She co-leads the Biodiversity Conservation Task Force of the Deep Ocean Stewardship Initiative, is a coordinating lead author on the Biodiversity Inclusive Spatial Planning and Connectivity assessment and was a lead author on the Nexus assessment on the Interlinkages among Biodiversity, Water, Food and Health of IPBES and has advised processes by the International Seabed Authority and Convention on Biological Diversity. She has extensive experience advising the Canadian government on the design and monitoring of Marine Protected Areas.  

Christine is a Research Associate with the Nippon Foundation - University of Edinburgh Ocean Voices Programme and a PhD researcher at the University of Edinburgh. She has an interdisciplinary background in human rights, law and policy, and marine science, which she draws on for her research on science-society-policy interfaces in ocean governance. Christine Co-Leads the BBNJ Working Group for the Deep-Ocean Stewardship Initiative where she has worked with an international group of experts to help better connect knowledge with the BBNJ process since 2019.

Marcel Jaspars is Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Aberdeen where he leads the Marine Biodiscovery Centre which focuses on marine resources for novel pharmaceuticals, and to investigate fundamental questions in marine chemical ecology and biosynthesis. 

Marcel has been active at national and international levels to develop the science, its applications/industrial uptake and associated policy involved in marine biodiscovery and biotechnology. He provides scientific advice to the UK, EU and UN for global policy processes on ocean conservation and digital sequence information via reports, papers and taking part in discussion meetings. He is a co-lead of the Deep Ocean Stewardship Initiative’s Working Group on Marine Genetic Resources.

Kristina M. Gjerde, J.D., is Senior High Seas Advisor to the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Global Ocean Team and honorary professor at the University of Edinburgh. 

With IUCN, Kristina has worked to improve global governance of marine biodiversity beyond national boundaries. She has co-authored more than 200 publications and co-founded four initiatives: Global Ocean Biodiversity Initiative, Sargasso Sea Project, High Seas Alliance, and Deep Ocean Stewardship Initiative (DOSI).  In 2024, Kristina received the Elisabeth Haub Award for Environmental Law and Diplomacy for her instrumental role in the 2023 UN Agreement on Biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction.

A Biologist specialized in remote sensing image interpretation applied to rural and territorial studies. Marta holds a Master’s in Biological Sciences (Biodiversity and Conservation) from the National University of Colombia, where she is currently a PhD candidate. Her work focuses on the planning and management of protected areas, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource use. Since 2006, she has advised Colombia’s National Natural Parks and now serves as Deputy Director of Management of National Natural Parks. Member of the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas, she promotes science-based, participatory approaches to conservation and sustainable development.

Dave has worked as an environmental professional within Natural England and predecessor bodies for over 30 years. He originally trained as a plant ecologist, starting his career as a field surveyor mapping the vegetation communities of south-east England. He now tends to describe himself as a multidisciplinary environmental scientist, having developed expertise in public health, aspects of social science and economics, and the analysis and synthesis of evidence from multiple sources. In recent years, Dave has worked on gamebirds, upland burning, biodiversity net gain, natural capital, biodiversity, and human health amongst other things.

Dave is a fellow and former trustee of the Institute of Environmental Science, trustee of the Ecological Continuity Trust and Collaboration for Environmental Evidence, and expert adviser to NICE. He also has a handful of active research projects on the go, ranging across disease vector range shifts, climate change impacts on grassland vegetation, and orchid autecology.

Dr. Kulwa Mtaki is a marine scientist specializing in fisheries management and ocean governance. She holds a PhD and MSc in Marine Sciences and a BSc in Aquatic Environmental Sciences and Conservation, all from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Dr. Mtaki serves as a Marine Conservation Warden at the Marine Parks and Reserves Unit (MPRU), where she focuses on strengthening the sustainable management of Tanzania’s marine protected areas. Her work integrates scientific research and community engagement to address challenges related to climate change, ecological resilience, and conservation governance.

Purwanto has over 20 years of experience in support developing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) across Indonesia. He specializes in designing and implementing marine biological monitoring programs to assess coral reef communities, human impacts, and reef resilience to climate change. His expertise includes MPA design and planning, surveillance, coral reef fisheries, species management, and evaluating MPA effectiveness. Purwanto has led numerous marine resource surveys, including reef fish spawning aggregations and marine mammal monitoring, and has supported the development and implementation of practical guidelines and tools for assessing MPA management effectiveness in Indonesia.

PhD in Biological Sciences (Barcelona University); Free-lance consultant on marine and coastal conservation. Director of Institutional Relations at Underwater Gardens International and Coordinator of the Global Network of MPA Manager Networks Project (Blue Nature Alliance). President of MedPAN (2009-2024); Team Leader of EU projects Transatlantic MPA Network (2016-2019) and Ocean Governance (2020-2024) connecting MPA manger networks around the world. IUCN Regional Councillor (2000-2008) and Vice-president (2004-2008). President of Preparatory Committee IV WCC, Barcelona (2006-2008). President of League for Defence of Natural Heritage (1994-2010). Awarded with St. George’s Cross by Government of Catalonia (2020) and Alfred Toepfer Medal by EUROPARC (2022).

Muhusina has a master's in marine science and management from Macquarie University, Sydney. She joined the Ministry in 2007, and is currently the Director of protected areas, leading the works of protected areas and Biosphere Reserves in the Ministry. She is an expert member of the IUCN World Commission on the Protected Areas , co-chair of Asia Protected Area Partners and is currently representing the Asia Pacific in the UNESCO working group on biosphere reserves. She has published national guidance on protected area management plans and contributed to the national IUCN Green list assessment and protected area management effectiveness reports. She is a certified assessor of IUCN red list for species and IUCN Green list for protected areas and has contributed to several programs related to Environment at national level and international level.

Sébastien Renard has been with Parks Canada for over 10 years. He has worked as a scientist in terrestrial and marine protected areas, specializing in ecosystem health monitoring. For almost 2 years, he has been now the manager of the Adaptation and Resilience team of Parks Canada's National branch of Natural Resource Management. His team provides advice, expertise and tools to Parks Canada's protected areas to better adapt to climate change. 

Dr. Chantal Vis is a Senior Marine Ecosystem Specialist with the Protected Area Establishment and Conservation Directorate at Parks Canada in Ottawa. Over the past 20 years, she has worked on a wide range of marine and freshwater management, monitoring, and research initiatives in protected areas across Canada. In addition, she contributes to national program policy development, including the national monitoring framework. Chantal also serves on the Canadian steering committee for NAMPAN—the North American Marine Protected Areas Network—where she collaborates on shared species and conservation issues.

Phénia Marras currently serves as Marine Adviser for multilateral relations within a public organization, the French Biodiversity Agency (OFB). She’s developing pilot initiatives relative to MPA governance in the high seas, in relation with multilateral donors. She’s also in charge of strategic international partnerships with the the CDB Secretariat in support to the Sustainable Ocean Initiative (SOI). She works alongside partners as part of the International Partnership on MPAs, Biodiversity and Climate Change. She has been leading for 15 years European consortiums for MPA networks in support to marine biodiversity conservation policies for regional seas and international legal frameworks. She was previously Fundraising Manager in Radio France international (RFI) for capacity building projects in the media and in social economy. She studied at the University Institute for European Studies in Paris on the geopolitical, economic and sociocultural challenges of European integration.

Fabrice Stephenson is a marine ecologist at Newcastle University and Vice Chair of the WCPA Marine Thematic Group. His research examines spatial patterns and drivers of marine biodiversity, focusing on human impacts like fishing and climate change. Using statistical modelling, he develops science to guide marine spatial planning and policy. Currently, his 5-year fellowship aims to improve methods for estimating ecosystem service distributions under climate change, supporting effective and equitable resource management.

About the Ocean Conservation Trust

The Ocean Conservation Trust is a charity of Ocean optimists taking action to protect and restore nature for a thriving Ocean. OCT focus on inspiring Ocean advocacy through connections with nature, combined with our ground-breaking work protecting & restoring vital Ocean habitats. They work tirelessly to connect people to the Ocean and influence pro-Ocean behavior. 

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About Oceanogami

Oceanogami is the bridge that connects the needs of our ocean with socio-political and economic objectives and projects. They promote greater ocean responsibility through projects, consultancies and awareness-raising, education, and research events. Their approach promotes effective actions for marine conservation, ranging from companies and governments to NGOs and citizens.

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About Bauhaus of the Seas

The Bauhaus of the Seas is a creative initiative that connects the European Green Deal to people’s living spaces and experiences, guided by the values of sustainability, inclusion and creativity. Christiano He collaborates with the European lighthouse project Bauhaus of the Seas Sails, bridging biology, art, architecture and local communities, in the search for answers to environmental problems in the Ocean; and with the TIDAL ArtS project, which aims to inspire and transform aquatic landscapes through art and science, uniting nature with culture.

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About the Rockpool Project

The Rockpool Project are a not-for-profit community interest company passionate about connecting people of all ages and backgrounds to the incredible wildlife found around our coastline. By engaging with local communities and promoting scientific exploration, they aim to create a sustainable network of healthy, well connected marine conservationists across and beyond the South West.

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About ECOP Chile

ECOP Chile connects science, policy, culture, and communities to co-create inclusive solutions for marine conservation and coastal well-being. ECOP Cjhile are a community that connects disciplines, people, and knowledge to conserve and improve our oceans, and to encourage the new generation of ocean leaders to foster a sustainable relationship between society and the ocean.

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About PartArt4OW

PartArt4OW unites art, science, and civic engagement to tackle pressing ocean and water challenges across Europe. Through Participatory Art Initiatives (PAIs), we empower creative communities to develop interdisciplinary projects that enhance public awareness, build emotional connections, and inspire action for water sustainability. 

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About Plymouth Culture

Plymouth’s heritage and connection to the ocean is at the heart of an inspiring new cultural and artistic programme through which we are inviting Plymouth residents to reconnect with the sea. Creating opportunities for artists and audiences, sparking curiosity, and celebrating Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, Sea for Yourself is a once-in-a-generation initiative that will blend creativity, technology and community engagement to create meaningful experiences that highlight our connection to the natural world.

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Kizzy is a PhD researcher and educator passionate about transformative ocean governance, participatory approaches, and environmental justice. Her work explores how inclusive, place-based governance models can support sustainable marine futures. 

Alan Smith is the founder of Nature Wave. Nature Wave designs innovative, purpose-driven experiences that ignite a deeper connection with nature, promoting sustainability, wellbeing and hope.  An experienced, passionate team of global educators, conservationists and environmental ambassadors with a mission to create a global ‘wave’ of nature connection, together.

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Plymouth Sound National marine Park

The UK’s first National Marine Park is about forging a new relationship between the city and the sea. Encouraging people to become ‘Marine Citizens’, developing closer connections with the ocean, learning to care about our coastal environment and change the way we behave in order to protect it.

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Taqi Shaheen is an artist and co-founder of the Digital Museum of Coastal Futures. Based in Karachi (Pakistan), he works with coastal communities and maritime museums, creating analogue and digital interfaces as futuring tools that explore Oceanic knowledge and cultural seascapes.

Dr. Mekhala Dave (she/her) is a Vienna-based lawyer and art scholar. She integrates legal practice with transdisciplinary research bridging art, law, and science. She holds a PhD in Art History/Curatorial Studies from the University of Applied Arts Vienna, where her doctoral research explored decolonial ocean epistemologies through contemporary art and curatorial practice. Building on this intersection, her expertise lies in deep-sea mining and ocean governance, with participation at the International Seabed Authority and UN ocean-climate conferences. Currently, she is a Research Associate at ASCOMARE, leading EU-projects on the blue economy in maritime law and policy.  She is a member of the Confluence of European Water Bodies advocating for nature’s legal rights, and the Deep Currents Collective, which envisions the deep seabed as a relational world sustaining human and more-than-human life. Dr. Dave has published, presented internationally, and developed curatorial projects connecting research and practice through cross-sector collaboration.

Damiens (he/him/they) is a climate justice advocate from Guadeloupe, a French Caribbean archipelago, one of the 13 French overseas territories, which are spread across the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. He holds a B.A in Philosophy from Sorbonne University and has studied Public Policy at Sciences Po Lyon. In 2020, he co-founded the Observatoire Terre-Monde, a research-action center for the study of political ecologies of French Overseas territories. His work explores the French subnational island territories as an emerging political arena for climate justice. By analyzing issues of sovereignty, sustainability, and environmental justice, he argues that decolonial perspectives remain essential to understanding adaptation, mitigation, and loss and damage policies in these large ocean territories. He is also a fellow of the Caribbean Climate Justice Leaders Academy, a program supported by Island Innovation and Open Society Foundations, created to amplify youth-led climate leadership across the Caribbean. Building on this expertise, he served as as a ocean policy coordinator at the Caribbean Sea Commission of the Secretariat of the Association of Caribbean States, where he co-designed a regional science-policy interface on the sargassum crisis. Currently, his advocacy focuses on advancing climate diplomacy among Subnational Island Jurisdictions (SNIJs), a category coined to highlight the shared realities of non-sovereign island territories alongside their neighboring Small Island Developing States (SIDS). He aims to amplify the role of overseas territories in shaping a unified and equitable response to the ocean-climate crisis, ensuring their perspectives are both heard and valued.

Kevan Kalapnath-Maharaj is the Managing Director of IAMovement, an environmental NGO, based in Trinidad and Tobago which was founded in 2014, by a group of young and passionate individuals, who felt a strong need to effect positive social and environmental change. The organization accomplishes this through activities and events, aimed at educating and empowering others, while raising awareness on key social, environmental, and economic issues in Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the Caribbean region. Kevan has a background in Chemical and Process Engineering from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus, and is certified in Project and Facilities Management. He has co-led the Caribbean Green Infrastructure Conference in both 2022 and 2025, which served as a dynamic platform for regional and international stakeholders to learn and understand Green Infrastructure and Nature-Based Solutions alongside innovative climate finance mechanisms to address the challenges faced by Small Island Developing States as a result of the changing climate.

Bárbara Luci Carvalho is an Afro-descendant artist and researcher with a master's degree in Performing Arts based in Germany. As a decolonial scholar, she specialises in Brazilian Afro-diasporic culture, with a focus on ocean heritage. She is the co-founder and coordinator of the Escuna Criativa Project, which integrates art, sustainability, and immersive educational experiences aboard a cultural ship. She is a member of the European Ocean Coalition (EU4Ocean) and mentor for future women leaders in the blue economy. Over the past 15 years, she has collaborated with Quilombola communities in Bahia, promoting anti-racist education, cultural preservation and environmental awareness. Bárbara works closely with coastal indigenous communities to co-create collective experiences that promote connections with transatlantic identities, creativity and social inclusion. 

Alexandre Silva is a Brazilian engineer with a postgraduate qualification in business administration, a SCUBA diving instructor, and, by the end of this year, will hold a Master’s degree in Ocean Science & Technology with a focus on coastal governance and tourism. He is the Founder and President of Associação TransforMAR, Hub Leader for SOA Campinas, and Coordinator of the TransforMAR project, a UN Ocean Decade–endorsed action. He works with schools and coastal communities to co-design meaningful ocean experiences that restore belonging and confidence, and empower communities to demand effective change from their leaders. Alexandre has over a decade of experience leading multi-stakeholder projects in conservation, education and sustainability, and in the energy sector.

Khadija is the Senior Campaigner at RISE UP for the Ocean, where she leads the Ocean and Climate Cluster and drives global advocacy on deep-sea mining. She holds dual MSc degrees in Sustainable Development with Management Studies and in Climate Change and Development. Khadija has represented Caribbean perspectives at the International Seabed Authority, UN Ocean Conferences and UNFCCC COPs, bringing frontline realities into spaces where ocean and climate futures are shaped.

Her work bridges science, law and policy with creativity and storytelling, making complex governance issues accessible and resonant. She also designs capacity development initiatives that help communities and organisations connect international frameworks with local solutions. Believing that stories, art and culture are as vital to climate action as policy and finance, Khadija uses them to inspire new ways of thinking about the ocean and to push for a just, resilient and vibrant ocean–climate future.

Natalie is a sustainability postgraduate, ocean advocate and communications consultant with over a decade of experience in community engagement, ocean activism and environmental outreach. An academic background in media, sustainability and trans-disciplinary marine science, her work bridges digital communications, participatory research, wellbeing and ocean literacy.

She has worked within the UN Ocean Decade as consultant under IOC-UNESCO for the Early Career Ocean Professionals Programme, supporting the growth of their membership base. She is on the UK’s National Decade Committee and also runs her own UN Ocean Decade project called Citizens of Surf, which empowers surfers to take part in marine citizen science. Natalie’s focus lies in fostering inclusion, ocean access and regenerative, community-led ocean action.

Karly Kelso is an Acting Senior Director in EDF’s Fisheries & Oceans program, leading the aquatic foods portfolio and the Aquatic Blue Foods Coalition Secretariat. She works with governments, civil society, and the private sector to elevate blue foods in global policy dialogues, including collaborating with UNFCCC COP Presidencies and High-Level Climate Champions to integrate aquatic foods into climate agendas. Additionally, she manages EDF's India fisheries portfolio. Over 15 years at EDF, she has advanced fishery management program design and informed policy to promote sustainable fisheries and resilient ocean ecosystems globally.

Dr Michelle Tigchelaar is a Senior Scientist at WorldFish, leading the organization’s impact agenda on Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability. An interdisciplinary climate scientist with more than a decade of experience, she works at the interface of science and policy to scale evidence-based adaptation and mitigation solutions in food systems. Her recent work has helped shape global dialogue and partnerships, such as the Aquatic Blue Food Coalition, that advance the integration of aquatic foods into key multilateral processes, global climate commitments, and national climate strategies.

Dr. Juli-Anne Russo, a native of Kingston, Jamaica, is the founder of the Caribbean Aquaculture Education and Innovation Hub.  A recent Fulbright Specialist, she is an Aquaculture Scientist specializing in aquatic animal nutrition, feed management, and the prevention of fish diseases. Dr. Russo has served as a consultant for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), USAID, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and Compete Caribbean, providing technical expertise to fish farmers in developing countries. Her work focuses on food and nutrition security, youth technical capacity building and women’s empowerment in aquaculture, biosecurity, environmental sustainability, and rural development.

Fernanda Sampaio, an animal scientist, is a researcher at Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa). Her work focuses on global policies and strategies to adapt aquaculture production systems to climate change.

Alina Mubashir is a development practitioner and youth advocate with the FAO Global Youth Constituency on Fisheries and Aquaculture and the Youth Policy Board (YPB). She drives local action in fishing communities and urban fisheries in Pakistan, bridging the gap between regional priorities and local needs. Alina collaborates with governments, civil society, and international organizations to amplify youth voices and promote inclusive, resilient fisheries systems across Asia and the Pacific.

Xuechan Ma is a Fishery Resources Officer (Climate Change) at the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. With over six years of experience at FAO, Xuechan supports the engagement with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and contributes to the development of climate change knowledge products, policy guidance, and project documents. She holds a Ph.D. in international law from Leiden University in the Netherlands, as well as master’s and bachelor’s degrees in law from Peking University in China.

Christina Zantioti is an animal scientist currently pursuing a PhD in Aquaculture at the Agricultural University of Athens.She is the founder of SEADEA, a company providing research and consulting services in aquaculture and other marine biology-related fields. Lastly, she is the co-founder and President of the international association NOWA Network of Women in Aquaculture, which actively promotes gender equality and inclusivity within aquaculture.

Gugulethu Mahlangu is a YOUNGO representative for the Food & Agriculture and Just Transition working groups, passionate about advancing youth-led solutions in climate-resilient food systems. She is the CEO of House Harvest, a South African aquaponics enterprise integrating fish farming, indigenous crops, and circular bioeconomy innovations. Through her work, Gugulethu promotes sustainable aquaculture, renewable energy adoption, and community-based training that empower women and youth in post-mining regions.

Ives Duarte is a veterinarian with experience in the clinical care, management, and rehabilitation of wild animals. He received specialized training in wildlife medicine through the Multidisciplinary Residency Program in Health at the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel). He worked as a veterinarian at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (NURFS/CETAS - UFPel). Currently, Ives Duarte is a technical analyst at the National Secretariat of Aquaculture of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture of Brazil and participates in discussions and collaborations regarding the role of aquaculture in the face of the impacts of climate change.

Ellena Kavarera serves as the Head of the Home Bureau Department at the Indonesian Coastal Youth Union, her work focuses on empowering young people in coastal communities to actively engage in issues related to fisheries, aquaculture, and ocean governance. In her role, Ellena has been involved in several initiatives that focus on youth capacity building, sustainable coastal livelihood development, and marine conservation awareness. She played a key role in organizing youth dialogues on sustainable fisheries management, and facilitating capacity development sessions for young leaders in coastal communities.

In her work with the OA Alliance, Juliana focuses on providing creative direction, including developing the organization’s brand, creating effective communications strategies, and expanding the Alliance’s broader science communications efforts. Juliana strengthens relationships with many of the OA Alliance’s Affiliate members by showcasing their work through innovative collaborations. She is inspired by the challenge to find new, creative ways of making the invisible visible in bringing ocean-climate issues to the public eye. 

Juliana is a Costa Rican ocean advocate who focuses on uniting creativity with ocean conservation. With over a decade of experience in creative communications, she elevates the branding and communications of NGOs and initiatives to better reflect the impact of their work. 

Natalie Bravo is a passionate young leader dedicated to ocean sustainability through research, innovation, and collaboration. Her work focuses on understanding the impacts of climate stressors—such as acidification, warming, and hypoxia—on marine ecosystems, particularly in upwelling regions vital for aquaculture. She has played a key role in developing low-cost sensor monitoring systems to improve environmental data collection, addressing critical gaps for marine resource management.  

Her leadership extends beyond research; she actively engages in international networks like ICONEC, SOA, and LAOCA, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and science communication. With a proactive approach to bridging science, policy, and community action.

Monika is an expert in storytelling, with training in social sciences, scriptwriting, project management, and diversity and inclusion. She has dedicated her 20+ years career to turning complex content into engaging messages, with special interest in projects of social or environmental value.

Monika is convinced that powerful stories can change the world for the better, so after working in the NGO sector and independent filmmaking, she decided to found LUMA, a story-design studio with offices in Costa Rica and the United Kingdom. By using emotions as the driver of hard facts and data, Monika has helped businesses and organizations of all sizes carefully craft audiovisual products that fuel positive impact worldwide, drawing research and knowledge closer to decision-makers and target audiences. Monika is constantly looking for new opportunities to tangibly contribute to improving the world we all share.

Dr. Katy Soapi is an ocean scientist specialising in the chemistry of organisms in the ocean. Before joining Pacific Community as Coordinator in 2021, Katy was at the University of the South Pacific (USP) holding a range of positions including as a Lecturer at the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences and a Manager of the Pacific Natural Products Research Centre. She grew up on the island of Rendova, in the Solomon Islands. Dr. Soapi completed a bachelor’s degree at the USP, a master’s at the University of Sydney in Australia and a PhD at the University of East Anglia in the UK. She has a keen interest in science capacity development and is passionate about working at the community level on natural resource management.  

Dr. Micah Horwith leads the first state-level monitoring program on ocean acidification in the United States. He oversees monitoring efforts to measure and report OA conditions in greater Puget Sound and the outer coast estuaries for the Washington State Department of Ecology. 

Anthony Bitegeko is the Natural Resource Policy Analyst for the Makah Tribe, and he is the first tribal member to hold this position. He is Tanzanian and Native American, from the Makah Tribe. Anthony graduated from Neah Bay High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington. He takes great pride in his work for the Tribe and is committed to continuing his efforts toward the betterment of his community.

Eliza Northrop is an international environmental lawyer specialising in ocean-climate solutions for zero-carbon transitions, sustainable ocean planning, natural resources governance, and policy and indigenous rights. 

Ms Northrop is Director of the UNSW Centre for Sustainable Development Reform and was previously at the World Resources Institute (WRI) where she was thew Global Policy Lead for WRI's Global Ocean Program and the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy. Ms Northrop is a contributor and member of various international UN initiatives and has worked extensively in the UNFCCC. 

Lisama Sabry is a Maldivian conservation professional with over a decade advancing marine biodiversity policy and practice. As Senior Conservation Officer at the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, she helped update the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan and serves as National Focal Point for environmental conventions. Lisama’s work foregrounds biodiversity in ocean accounting, ensuring ecological condition, ecosystem services, and economic use are considered together. She aligns the Maldives’ National Roadmap on Ocean Accounts with environmental, fisheries, and tourism laws and international initiatives. Bridging science, policy, and communities, she strengthens sustainable marine resource management and safeguards the Maldives’ marine ecosystems.

Mr Espen Ronneberg is the Pacific Community (SPC)’s Senior Adviser on Climate Change Multilateral Environmental Agreements and has been involved in climate change negotiations since 1992. 

Previously, Mr Ronneberg has acted as Climate Change Adviser for the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), Inter-regional Advisor for Small Island Developing States in the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, and worked as an adviser for the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, including becoming Minister Counsellor at the Permanent Mission to the UN.

Annike Faure is the Coastal Wetlands and Climate Change Project Manager for SeyCCAT. She manages and coordinates project activities and the day-to-day project implementation and overall coordination of the various project outcomes under SeyCCAT's portfolio. 

Ms Faure has substantial experience in environmental project management. She started work as a Project Manager for the Programme Coordination Unit and later for the United Nations Development Programme. Annike holds a Master's in Environmental Management for Business from Cranfield University, United Kingdom and a BSc in Geography and Environment from the University of Seychelles.

Dr. Sivendra Michael is the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of the Fiji Government. Dr Michael has over 10 years of experience working in the climate change adaptation and disaster risk management field across the Asia-Pacific and Eastern African region. Prior to joining the Fijian Government, Dr. Michael worked for various UN agencies, the Pacific Islands Forum and the British Council. He currently is the co-chair of the Climate Investment Fund Board and the co-chair for the UNFCCC Ocean-Climate Dialogue. Dr. Michael is Fiji’s Chief Negotiator for the Plastics Treaty, UNFCCC COP29 and UNCBD COP16. Dr Michael holds a PhD and a Master’s degree from the University of Auckland, as well as a Master’s and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of the South Pacific.

Sylvain Taboni is Head of Impact Investing at BNP Paribas. With over 15 years of experience in Sustainable Finance, corporate transformation, and climate-focused philanthropy, he works at the intersection of business innovation & environmental and social impact. Sylvain previously managed strategic CSR and sustainable finance transformation initiatives within BNP Paribas, and led major climate and environment programs at the BNP Paribas Foundation. He holds a Master’s degree in Management from KEDGE Business School.

Nicolas’ expertise combines marine science, economics, finance, and policy; all aimed at protecting marine ecosystems. On the marine side, he has contributed over 50 economic studies, scientific publications, and technical reports on ecosystem services of coral reefs. These have been used globally, to inform and convince policy makers. On the business side, Nicolas’ former positions include experience as an investment director and project developer for multinational companies, and he was also the founder and CEO of a B2B company. Nicolas has completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from ICN (France) and received his PhD in Marine Science from the Universidad de Barcelona (Spain).

Célia is the Partnership Manager at Blue Alliance. She holds a Master's in Corporate Finance from ESSCA School of Management. After a few years working as head of partnerships and finance for a French foundation, she is convinced that companies need to redirect their investments towards supporting projects that respect the environment and people. That's why she has chosen to focus her professional career on organisations whose projects are designed to meet a collective objective of social and environmental benefit. She believes that one of Blue Alliance's main challenges is to ensure the sustainability of MPAs by diversifying the funding model.

Within Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, one of the world’s foremost philanthropic institutions dedicated to environmental protection, Raphaël Ghiandai is involved in various missions, including financials oversight, managing banking relationships, developing investment strategies, and supporting fundraising efforts. He also contributes to the Foundation’s initiatives related to the blue economy.

Before joining the Foundation in 2024, Raphaël has an extensive experience in finance over 15 years. After earning his degree from EM Lyon Business School, he started his career within “big four” audit firms in Paris, Sydney and Monaco, before moving to corporate world as CFO. 

Ashleigh McGovern leads multi-disciplinary teams to design and implement nature-based solutions to the complex problems facing our ocean and climate today.

Ashleigh McGovern has worked at Conservation International for more than 12 years, now leading the Center for Oceans. During her tenure, she has led the development of global partnerships that improve ocean health for people and nature, including the Coral Reefs on the High Seas Coalition and the Blue Nature Alliance.

She holds an MA from Carnegie Mellon’s School of Public Policy and Management and a certificate in design thinking. She also cofounded em·data, inc, which co-designs data solutions for the public and private sectors

Marianne Carpentier is Advisor on Sustainable Finance at the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA), where she leads engagement with private-sector stakeholders to accelerate investment in a resilient and regenerative ocean economy. She contributed to the development and delivery of the Blue Economy and Finance Forum (BEFF), a Special Event of the UN Ocean Conference 2025, convening financial institutions, corporates, philanthropies and governments around ocean-positive finance.

She is also the founder and CEO of July Advisory, a strategy consultancy focused on ESG, ecological accounting and business model transition. Marianne advises corporates and public organisations on sustainability strategy, CSRD implementation and nature-positive finance.

Marianne began her career in finance at Natixis before moving into strategy consulting at Bain & Company, Exton (Accenture) and Attali Associates, working across infrastructure, water, energy and agriculture. She is a graduate of ESSEC Business School.

Luna Merino drives impactful partnerships at the Ocean & Climate Platform (OCP), advancing action across the ocean-climate-biodiversity nexus. Before this role, she was appointed by the OCP to work with the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on international mobilisation for UNOC3, delivering the flagship Green Zone, La Baleine. Her experience also includes international wildlife trade negotiations at the French Ministry for the Ecological Transition, as well as solidarity initiatives with Le Cèdre Solidarity, an endowment fund supporting Lebanon’s environmental and social resilience.

Professor David Freestone is a Professorial Lecturer and Visiting Scholar at George Washington University Law School in Washington D.C. He is the Executive Secretary of the Sargasso Sea Commission, established by the Government of Bermuda pursuant to the 2014 Hamilton Declaration on Collaboration for the Conservation of the Sargasso Sea. He is also founding Editor of the International Journal of Marine and Coastal Law (now in its 34th year). Professor David Freestone also serves as a member of the International Board of Directors for the International Coastal and Ocean Organization.

Mr. Vladimir Jares is the Director of the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS), Office of Legal Affairs of the United Nations Secretariat. He has been a staff member of the United Nations Secretariat since December 1992.

During his more than three-decade long career at the Division, he had a large variety of responsibilities, initially dealing with fisheries issues in the context of the United Nations Conference on Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks.

Thereafter, he was a member of the team which deals with issues related to maritime spaces.  He served for many years as the Secretary of the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf. He oversaw the development of the website of the Division and was the editor of the Law of the Sea Bulletin.

He was involved, in various capacities, in supporting the work of intergovernmental processes serviced by the Division, most recently as the Secretary of the Intergovernmental Conference on an international legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction.

He continues to be involved in capacity-building activities of the Division and has delivered numerous lectures on topics related to ocean affairs and the law of the sea. Prior to his career of an international civil servant, he was in diplomatic services of Czechoslovakia.

Professor Manuel Barange is Assistant Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and Director of its Fisheries and Aquaculture Division. He is an honorary professor at the University of Exeter, UK, and Visiting Professor at the Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, CAFS, China. Prof. Barange was Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of Science at the Plymouth Marine Laboratory (UK) and Chair of the scientific committee of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea. Professor Barange is a global fisheries and aquaculture expert, with particular focus on climate and anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems and on the role of aquatic foods in ending hunger and poverty. He has over 130 academic publications and is the lead Editor of the FAO flagship biennial publication “State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture”. He has contributed to several IPCC reports and was Review Editor of the IPCC special report on Oceans and the Cryosphere (SROCC). In 2010 he was awarded the UNESCO-IOC Roger Revelle Medal for his contribution to ocean science.

Joe Appiott coordinates the work on marine, coastal and island biodiversity at the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). At the CBD Secretariat, Joe works with governments, international organizations and other stakeholders to support the implementation of the Convention. This work includes facilitating the description and mapping of ecologically or biologically significant marine areas (EBSAs), coordinating capacity building activities, and synthesizing policy advice related to pressures on marine biodiversity. Joe work also includes coordination with, and input to, other UN agencies and multilateral processes with regards to issues related to marine, coastal and island biodiversity.

Kristina M. Gjerde, J.D., is Senior High Seas Advisor to the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Ocean Team, an adjunct professor at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, California, and an honorary professor at the University of Edinburgh. For the past twenty plus years, Kristina’s primary focus has been promoting a United Nations Agreement to protect, conserve and sustain ocean life beyond national boundaries. The United Nations Agreement on High Seas Biodiversity was formally adopted on June 19, 2023. 

Along the way, Kristina has authored or co-authored more than 200 publications and co-founded four initiatives: Global Ocean Biodiversity Initiative, Sargasso Sea Project, High Seas Alliance, and Deep Ocean Stewardship Initiative (DOSI). She sits on the advisory board of the Schmidt Ocean Institute, and was previously part of the Executive Planning Group for the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.  In February 2023, Kristina received the IUCN World Commission on Protected Area’s Fred Packard Award for her efforts to secure protections in international law for the high seas.

Viktoria Varga Lencses has 25 years of experience in international fisheries, environmental policy and programme management. Since 2022, she has been serving as Senior Fishery Officer at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, leading the GEF-funded global initiative Common Oceans Program to promote sustainable use of marine resources and biodiversity conservation in ABNJ. Prior to FAO, she was a Policy Coordinator at the European Commission, where she played a key role in the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement fisheries negotiations and managed EU funding programs for the Atlantic, North Sea and Baltic regions. Her career also includes policy development and coordination roles in cross-border cooperation, and regional development.

Azela Arumpac-Marte is First Secretary and Legal Adviser at the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the United Nations in New York and to the International Seabed Authority since 2021. She is currently the Legal Adviser and Sixth Committee expert of the Permanent Mission of the Philippines. She was previously Acting Executive Director of the Office of Treaties and Legal Affairs, and prior to that the head of its Treaties Division, at the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs.

Catie Mitchell is a Policy Analyst with the Global Ocean Forum and has been part of the Virtual Ocean Pavilion team since COP28. She supports the implementation of the Common Oceans Cross-sectoral Project, a GEF-funded UNEP initiative aimed at strengthening cross-sectoral management and governance of marine areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ). Catie holds a Master of Science in Marine Biological Resources from Ghent University through the IMBRSea Erasmus Programme. Her previous research explored the interactions between coral reef ecosystems and fisheries. She transitioned into marine policy after joining the Global Ocean Forum in 2023 and contributes to programs advancing the sustainable management of ABNJ and promoting evidence-based ocean governance.

Eszter holds bachelor and masters degrees in marine science and has worked in the field of international fisheries policy and management for the last 18 years, with placements in Ho Chi Minh City, Barcelona, Brussels and Rome. She has been with FAO for seven years, first working as a fisheries officer with the team responsible for combatting illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, then in late 2022, taking on the position of Project Manager of the Common Oceans Deep-Sea Fisheries Project, addressing challenges like the implementation of precautionary and ecosystem approaches to fisheries management and cross-sectoral cooperation in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Before joining FAO, she worked for the international non-governmental organization WWF for eight years.  

Laura Khatib is the French-Lebanese co-founder of the NGO Guardians of the Blue based in Byblos, Lebanon, and an independent consultant. She is leading community-driven citizen science, underwater cleanups, lionfish invasion mitigation and awareness initiatives, and supporting the development of the future MPA of Byblos. She is passionate about reconnecting local communities to the ocean and sharing the beauty of local marine biodiversity. Laura is also the co-lead of the Early Career Ocean Professionals' Ocean Literacy task team and a Steering Committee member of the UNESCO/IOC Ocean Literacy With All Programme.

Janine Coye-Felson is the Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Belize to the United Nations in New York and serves as the Co-chair of the Preparatory Commission of the BBNJ Agreement. She is an Ambassador of Belize and a senior advisor to the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on climate and ocean matters. For more than two decades, she has been a leading voice for small island developing states (SIDS) in key negotiations including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Agreement, and the intergovernmental conference for a new BBNJ Agreement on marine biological diversity, with the aim of tailoring global policy to the specific needs and circumstances of SIDS. Janine is concurrently completing a fellowship with Melbourne Climate Futures at the University of Melbourne-Australia where she serves as the inaugural head of the Indo Pacific Climate Change Hub.