Ocean Ambassadors
Welcome to our exciting new Ocean Ambassador programme, where young minds with a passion for marine science and conservation can make a splash in the world of ocean advocacy! Designed for 13-18 year olds, this programme offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the ocean.
Our Ocean Ambassadors will gain opportunities to develop a deeper understanding of marine science and the importance of conservation efforts. Through a series of engaging talks, participants will have the chance to learn directly from leading scientists in the field, gaining insights into cutting-edge marine research and the challenges facing our oceans today.
Ocean Ambassadors will also have the chance to take on the role of interviewer, conducting interviews with scientists to delve into their work and experiences firsthand. This hands-on approach not only provides the ambassadors with valuable insights into the world of marine science, but we will also challenge them to find ways to share their newfound knowledge with others.
As part of the programme, the Ocean Ambassadors will have the opportunity to develop their own projects aimed at promoting ocean science and conservation. Ocean Ambassadors will have the support and guidance they need to turn their ideas into impactful initiatives in their own regions.
MEET OUR 2025
Ocean Ambassadors!
Advaith KaushiK
Hi, my name is Advaith Kaushik, I'm 15 years old and from the West side of India. My journey in conservation has taken me from working with the Zoo Outreach Organisation on wildlife protection initiatives to dedicating myself to being a voice for the voiceless and advocating for marine conservation. My passion for animals has driven me to contribute to real-world conservation efforts, whether it’s advocating for endangered species, engaging in marine research, or educating others about wildlife.
Alexa Lewis-Banks
Hi everyone! My name is Lex, and I’m a 16-year-old Advanced Open Water Diver and ocean lover. I love everything and anything to do with the ocean; surfing, diving, snorkelling and swimming alike! I am incredibly grateful to be given this opportunity to share my passion for ocean conservation and raise awareness of such a pressing and critical issue.
Bella Segelke
My name is Bella, I am 14 years old. I live in Portland, Oregon, USA. I love to scuba dive, play guitar, go on hikes and ski. I am passionate about spreading awareness about ocean conservation and am so excited to be a part of the Ocean Ambassador Programme!
Caroline Liu
Ni Hao and hello! My name is Caroline. I was born and have been living in Los Angeles all my life. I am currently a junior in high school. I enjoy scuba diving, travelling, and playing the cello when I'm not in school. When I am in the study zone, I am passionate about marine biology and environmentalism and I am pretty good in math. My favourite marine animal is the California Eel, and I look forward to connecting and advocating for the ocean through Manta Trust and my fellow Manta Trust ambassadors.
Deena Clemson
G’day! My name is Deena, I am 15 years old and a student in NSW, Australia. I have grown up living near and loving the beach and marine animals. I am a public speaker, and I am passionate about advocating for the needs of marine ecosystems and conservation and ensuring that the natural ecosystems are preserved for many years to come. I can’t wait to learn more about marine science and conservation as part of the Manta Trust Youth Ocean Ambassador Programme.
Ffion Mears
Hello! My name is Ffion Mears and I am from South Wales. For my whole life, I have always been obsessed with marine life, so much so that I wish to study marine biology next year at university! I am so excited to be a part of the Ocean Ambassadors programme, as together we can help to protect our oceans and conserve them for generations to come!
Hanisisevae Vai-Stierman
Talofa lava. Malo le soifua. My name is Hanisisevae Vai-Stierman, and I am 14 years old. I live in beautiful Samoa, surrounded by the vast Pacific Ocean. My village of Vaiala is steps away from the sea where I constantly see turtles grazing on the local seagrass. I enjoy swimming, snorkelling and surfing. I am grateful and honoured to be a part of this unique programme. I am excited to work with fellow Ocean Ambassadors and learn from the experts in the field. Soifua ma Ia Manuia.
Isabelle Ho
I'm Isabelle, a 17-year-old scuba diver from Singapore. I've been diving since I was 8 years old and I'm now a PADI Rescue diver with over 200 dives. I saw my first manta in Hanifaru Bay with the Manta Trust when I was 8, and I've been completely mesmerised by the underwater world ever since. I love everything from pelagics to the many tiny macro critters! My passion for the ocean led me to start Kaia Initiative, a youth marine conservation community that aims to inspire and educate young people about scuba diving & marine conservation. I'm really thrilled to be a part of the Manta Trust Ocean Ambassadors programme to learn more about the ocean from experts and collaborate with like-minded peers to create impact.
Jayden Robinson
I’m Jayden. I live in the middle of the United States in Olathe, Kansas (outside of Kansas City). There are no oceans near me, but I like to travel and learn as much as I can about the ocean and the animals in it. I hope to be a veterinarian or scientist someday. I am excited to be a Manta Trust Ocean Ambassador to expand my knowledge and spread awareness.
Lily Rickett
Hi, my name is Lily. I'm 18 years old, and I live in England. from a very young age, frequent visits to the sea introduced me to an entirely new world. Snorkeling below the surface and exploring has fueled my fascination with marine life. This passion has inspired me to pursue marine biology at university next year and obtain a PADI scuba qualification. I'm excited to be an ocean ambassador, with the goal of exploring and understanding the diverse ecosystems of the world's oceans and ultimately contributing to their preservation, along with the life they sustain both at sea and on land.
Nylah Nalwad
Hi! My name is Nylah and I’m a 17-year-old high school student from Bangalore, India. I’m deeply passionate about marine biology and have always been fascinated by the ocean and its ecosystems. I aspire to pursue a career in marine biology with a focus on conservation. I’m thrilled to be a part of the Ocean Ambassador Programme and can’t wait to work alongside like-minded individuals to advocate for ocean protection.
PARI (Panitbhand Paribatra Na Ayudhya)
Hi, I’m Pari. I am a middle school student living in Thailand. I am deeply honoured to be a part of Manta Trust Ocean Ambassadors! My passion for underwater photography and marine conservation drives me to capture the ocean’s beauty and share its story to inspire others to join the effort of conservation. Through my photography, I hope to reveal the vital importance of marine life, encouraging everyone to take action in preserving our oceans.
Pol Sintes
I’m Pol, I am 16 years old, and I live in Salou, Catalonia (northeast of Spain). I really enjoy spending time in the sea, and I live in a coastal town so I take every opportunity to explore the marine world. Currently, I’m at a pre-university course, and I think that sharing knowledge about the ocean and its challenges, is important to promoting its conservation. I am very excited to join this programme, and I will make the most of it to expand my knowledge about marine conservation and share it with others.
Sabine CastrO
Hi! I'm Sabine, an avid advocate for marine conservation in New York City! Despite being a junior in high school, there is still so much I can do in conservation, and I am grateful to the Manta Trust for giving me this opportunity. After working for the Wildlife Conservation Society, I am thrilled to continue my work protecting our waters.
Sienna Reese
My name is Sienna-Reese, I am 17 years old and in my final year of schooling, Ireside in South Africa. I have a deep love and curiosity for the ocean and its marine life. My intention is to study Marine Conservation and Ecology. I love all water sports, especially diving. It is an honour to be a Manta Trust Ambassador!
Stuart Cook
My name is Stuart Cook and I am a junior in high school currently studying honors marine biology. I also enjoy photography and hope to use it to highlight environmental concerns and advocate for marine conservation. As a Florida resident, I have seen first-hand the devastating effects of climate change and actively advocate for local environmental action. In my free time, I enjoy playing lacrosse and learning Spanish. I am honoured and excited to be selected as a Manta Trust Ambassador and look forward to making a meaningful impact on marine conservation efforts.
Summer Geall
Hi everyone! My name is Summer Geall and I’m a junior in high school from San Diego, California. I come from a scuba diving family and got my 1st PADI certification at 10 years old. Since then, I have travelled the world exploring the oceans and have logged over 400 dives. I have grown up with a love and deep appreciation for marine ecosystems and hope to pursue a career in ocean conservation and law. I am an alumni of the National Marine Mammal Foundation Youth Action Council, and am now a Youth Ambassador for NOAA. At my school, I have founded a Scuba Diving and Ocean Conservation Club. I have a passion for public speaking and last year, I did a Ted Talk entitled: “How Tragedy on the Marshall Islands Can Impact the Entire U.S.” I am so excited to be a Manta Trust Ocean Ambassador this year and have a positive impact on our oceans!
Swara Unavane
My name is Swara and I hail from the south of India. I am diver with 30+ logged dives and a future marine conservationist. I am 15 years old and I have an interest for marine flora and fauna. I spend my free time as an athlete and learning and reading research on marine biology and diversity.
Tegan Whiteside
My name is Tegan, I’m from the north of England. I have always had a love for the ocean and mantas. Last year I went to the Maldives and swam with manta rays, it was the best experience of my life. I now want to help this threatened species by doing this programme and being an ambassador. I hope to raise awareness through my art projects and educating my peers.
Zarah lasker
Hello my name is Zarah Lasker. I am passionate about the ocean and exploring the interconnectedness of climate action and health. Growing up in Bangladesh and the Maldives has deepened my appreciation for marine life and the environment. I’m committed to working together to create a healthier and more compassionate world.
Eva Mohamed
Hi, I'm Eva! I'm 16 years old and living in the capital of Maldives. To me, every beach day is a good day. I find it fascinating that even after millennia of searching, we still haven't unveiled even half of the ocean's secrets yet...
Eyvah Zulaal Zaeem
Hi! My name is Eyvah, and I live in the Maldives. I’m currently studying A-level Marine Science in Malé. I absolutely adore the ocean and love swimming, diving, and snorkelling. I’ve always been passionate about environmental awareness and conservation. Sometimes, I wish I were a fish so I could just keep swimming all day long! Living in a coastal country that heavily relies on its marine environment, one thing I’d really like to see is more local students passionate about marine studies and conservation. It’s a big ocean out there, but I’m ready to make waves! My dream is to become a marine biologist, so I am extremely grateful for the opportunity from Manta Trust to be among the 2025 Ocean Ambassadors, and I’m excited to learn as much as I can!
Emaan Danish
Emaan Danish Khan is a passionate climate advocate, Shark Tank winner, and the youngest founder at NIC Karachi and Founders Institute at just nine years old. She began her climate journey at seven and created the Fizza rag doll at eight, using storytelling to educate children about climate change.
As the founder of EarthWarriorz.org, Emaan has impacted 80,000+ children through climate education, AI-powered learning, and eco-friendly products. She has organised numerous climate camps across Pakistan, teaching youth about sustainability and resilience.
Emaan has spoken at COP28, COP29, and COP16, leading discussions at the Children and Youth Pavilion and national pavilions. She is a recognized youth voice at UN and local climate conferences.
Her accolades include the WeNaturalist Green Childhood Innovation Award, PASHA ICT Gold Award, and UAE Year of Sustainability Champion. She is also a WOW Girl Child, recipient of the Green Badge from NED University, and honoured by COMSATS University.
Emaan’s work continues to empower young changemakers, making her a leading voice in climate education and action.
