Umut is a Management Engineering student at Istanbul Technical University with a background in Entrepreneurship and Management from Riga Technical University. His academic path has given him a strong foundation in both analytical problem-solving and strategic thinking, which he now applies as a project manager intern with the OC Innovate team at Ocean Community. Passionate about sustainability and international collaboration, Umut brings a global mindset to his work, shaped by his experiences studying and volunteering across Europe. Beyond his studies, he has been actively involved in youth work and cultural exchange initiatives, supporting events and projects that foster connection and awareness. His interest in the ocean stems from a deep appreciation for nature and the desire to protect marine ecosystems for future generations. Through his internship, Umut is eager to contribute innovative ideas and practical solutions that promote ocean sustainability and the blue economy.

Lea grew up in the northernmost state of Germany, right between two coastlines, to the east and west. She studied geography at Kiel University, specializing in climate and earth science, and worked as a student assistant at a marine research center. After a brief detour into urban development, she enrolled on a transdisciplinary Master's program in Gothenburg, Sweden, where she engaged with theories and practices relating to the sustainable use of the sea and its resources. This combination of natural and social sciences, all linked to the ocean, inspired her to work and collaborate with like-minded people even further and bring forward innovative solutions to protect and sustain a healthy ocean.

Merve is a recent graduate in Industrial Engineering and is currently interning with the Partnerships team at Ocean Community. With diverse international work and volunteering experiences, she is deeply committed to driving positive change. Rooted in her hometown of Izmir, where her love for the sea first began, Merve is proud to contribute to Ocean Community’s innovation project focusing on the sustainable blue economy transition in partnership with local stakeholders in Izmir. With an open-minded and curious approach, she is passionate about exploring and developing practical solutions that support ocean sustainability and a thriving blue economy.

Paula originates from Southern Poland. As a Project Manager and International Business Strategist, she believes in the power of responding to the world’s most pressing challenges through cross-sectoral partnerships and in expanding access to reliable education, especially for those often overlooked by the system. Specialised in International Business (SGH Warsaw School of Economics & EDC Paris Business School), currently she is pursuing her Master’s Degree (SGH) in Project Management. With 8 years of experience, Paula helps to develop Skills Of The Future among students through tailored trainings & courses, proving that everybody can be a part of the change, including the youngest. Paula is a snowboard instructor, event director and solo adventurer passionate about discovering the world from different perspectives. Her love for the nature is rooted in the mountains where she was raised. As a water sports lover and always curious about the Ocean, waves and marine life, she moved to Portugal to deepen her connection with the water, spending her free time surfing. Through her diverse travels, she understands that nature is inseparable- every piece of it breaths different rhythm but as a part of the same world. Nature is her greatest source of inspiration for Paula’s projects and finding intersections between creative and practical solutions. 

Valentina was born in Germany and has always felt that the ocean is her happy place. She holds an MSc in Marine Environmental Management and a second MSc in Environment, Politics, and Society. Her fieldwork on the coral reefs of Bonaire, along with research into governance mechanisms of Marine Protected Areas in Germany, has given her valuable insights into the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of ocean conservation and the blue economy. Now, as the new lead for the OC Learn program, she’s excited to share her passion and create learning experiences that inspire action for a sustainable ocean.

Patrice is a student from Germany pursuing a degree in Engineering and Management. Following a semester abroad in South Korea, he is currently interning as a project manager at the OC Innovate team at Ocean Community. With a strong foundation in both engineering and economics, Patrice is well-equipped to engage deeply in projects focused on ocean sustainability. His passion for the ocean is driven by his appreciation for marine wildlife, surfing and the desire to preserve beautiful coastal areas and ecosystems. Throughout his internship, Patrice will contribute valuable insights and drive innovative solutions for ocean-related projects.

Martha is a recent bachelor graduate in International Studies and Political Science from the University of Oslo. She specialized in environmental politics, and spent last fall interning at the Permanent Mission of Norway to the UN in New York, working on the Sustainable Development Goals. This experience deepened her understanding of the complexities with global environmental governance, sparking a new drive to make tangible impact on the ground. Martha has always had a deep appreciation for the ocean, and feels the most at peace when surrounded by the vast, beautiful blue. As our new project manager for the Ocean Community Challenge 2025, she is eager to apply her passion for the ocean and experience with sustainable development to promote lasting solutions for sustainable ocean practices. 

Neda is a passionate digital marketing and content creator intern with a background in Business Management and Marketing from ISM University of Management and Economics, Lithuania. She is currently focused on developing an integrated marketing strategy for the upcoming year while crafting engaging content that strengthens brand presence. With a keen eye for trends and data-driven insights, she aims to create impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences. Inspired by the beauty and power of the sea, she is committed to promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about ocean conservation. Combining creativity with strategic thinking, she is eager to refine her skills in content creation, social media management, and marketing strategy to drive meaningful brand engagement and long-term growth.

Emma is a creative and passionate student from Germany and is pursuing her bachelors in the “International Degree Course in Leisure Science”. After a semester abroad at the Lusófona University in Lisbon where she deepened her knowledge in Tourism Management, she is now the Social Media Manager of Ocean Community. Here, she creates engaging and entertaining content with the goal to raise awareness and understanding towards ocean conservation. Her work is fueled by her deep love for the sea and her desire to have a positive impact on our blue planet. She feels happiest when close to the ocean, either while surfing, watching the sunset at the beach or reading a book while being surrounded by a fresh sea breeze.

Catarina is one of the most recent additions to the team and is currently completing her bachelor's degree in Communication Design at the University of the Fine Arts of Lisbon. With a strong passion for creativity and visual storytelling, she is eager to apply her academic knowledge and fresh perspective to real-world projects. She is particularly excited to be part of the Content Creation and Digital Marketing team, where she can contribute to the development of engaging and innovative campaigns. Catarina looks forward to honing her skills, collaborating with like-minded professionals, and helping bring compelling ideas to life.

Léo, a Master 2 student in International Business from France, is passionate about fostering strategic partnerships and driving business growth. Fluent in French, English, and Portuguese, he enjoys working across cultures and developing strategic collaborations. Currently, he is focused on the development of the partnerships program, helping to identify and nurture valuable collaborations. This role is more than just business—it’s about impact. Having grown up by the ocean in the south of France, the sea has always been a part of his life, shaping values and perspective. Now, through Ocean Community, he sees the opportunity to combine his professional expertise with a cause that truly matters—helping businesses grow while contributing to a more sustainable and connected network.

Kenenna is completing his Master’s degree in Information Technology at Altınbaş University in Istanbul. With over a decade of professional experience in Nigeria as a Web Developer, Technology Integration Specialist, and Moodle Site Administrator, as well as a recent intern as a Game Developer in Croatia, he brings strong technical expertise to his role at Ocean Community. Currently interning as Web Developer and Data Analyst, Kenenna is combining his IT background with a growing interest in sustainable AI and its applications in ocean conservation. Passionate about creating technologies that support rather than compromise ecosystems, he is eager to explore how digital tools and interpretable machine learning can contribute to protecting marine environments. He seeks to advance responsible computing practices.

Recently joined the team while completing his bachelor's degree in Network Engineering at Anhui University of Technology. With strong technical skills in Python, Java, and system development, he brings both analytical thinking and creative problem-solving to technology projects. When not on his projects, Abdessamad can be found watching or playing football matches or chasing perfect sunsets - passions that fuel his appreciation for teamwork and beauty in systems. He's excited to contribute his technical expertise and collaborative spirit to the team's initiatives while continuing to grow as an engineer.

With a solid background in business economics, Monika brings a diverse range of experience to the team. Her time at Bar Harbor Whale Watch in the USA allowed her to encounter various marine species, deepening her appreciation for ocean ecosystems. Monika holds both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from the University of Split, Croatia, and has gained valuable hands-on experience in community engagement, event organization, and customer relations. She is eager to contribute her knowledge and enthusiasm to the Ocean Community Challenge, focusing on applying her academic insights and practical skills to promote sustainable ocean practices. 

Eva is from the Netherlands and completed a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. Throughout her studies she has developed a strong interest in innovation and its potential to create meaningful change. Alongside her interest in innovations, her deep love for the natural world drives her excitement about joining the Ocean Community. She is eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals and contribute to impactful initiatives that protect and preserve our blue planet.

​Antonia is from Bulgaria and studies Environmental Science in the Netherlands. She is currently part of the Ocean Community Learning Module. Having grown up by the seaside, her passion for the ocean and marine life started at a very young age. Through her studies, personal interests, and now this internship, she is dedicated to contribute to positive change and working towards a more sustainable and healthy "blue" future for our oceans.