WhyCoexist 2025 Submissions

Managed to get this video out just in time! I actually created 2 versions - one with text and one without. I think the one without is more impactful from a video perspective but the one with text would work well on social media.I enjoyed making this one and I think it says a lot about the importance of not only coexisting with the ocean, but forming a strong bond with it.

As mentioned in the video, Im a Kiwi from New Zealand who currently lives in London. I grew up round the sea, fishing, exploring and diving. I have lived in Africa, South east Asia and Australia where I have dived and I hold my advanced PADI diver licence. I did one year of Marine biology at university but switched career paths (which I always have regretted!). I have volunteered at the united nations (working on the 'life below water' initiative by raising awareness through the UN NSW young professionals association) and various charities, currently I volunteer for the marine conservation society in the UK (you can see a clip of me talking about the deposit return scheme to reduce plastic waste at the end of this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYnR_0iXEjQ).

I really worry for the future of our seas and overfishing is my biggest issue, having boycotted the industry personally for over a decade now. I really want to do more, just figuring out how is the big part! This is the first time I have put together an edited video, all the shots I took myself in NZ, dviing around the world or in London, I hope you enjoy it and my message resonates with you.

I hope to build a career in marine conservation, and this project is a unique and valuable opportunity to move from theoretical knowledge to fins-on experience, while connecting with leading marine scientists—especially since I have yet to go diving in the ocean. As mentioned in our video, I am currently writing my thesis on Marine Protected Areas, through the lens of convivial conservation. *Convivial* (literally meaning *living with*) conservation explores how we can realistically respond to current political and environmental challenges by promoting radical equity, structural transformation, and environmental justice.If selected, we would love to continue working with Coexist and help amplify its message. Both William and I volunteer at OY4C, which has shown us the positive impact social media can have on climate and conservation action. We would love nothing more than to spread awareness and share your project with OY4C's community consisting of 75,000 followers across Instagram and Tiktok.

Creating this video has been a challenging, educational, and rewarding experience, made even more special by collaborating with my boyfriend William, who did an incredible job bringing it all together. As university students—balancing an architecture degree and a final year in ecology—we were determined to find the time to share our perspective on the ocean’s importance, even for those who live far from it. What isn’t shown in the video is William’s deep connection to the ocean; growing up in the New Forest in the UK, he spent much of his time swimming and surfing, and so he has a strong respect and appreciation for the sea.

I hope you enjoy our perspective on why we must *Coexist* with our oceans. In some ways, living in London, our connection to the ocean is now from afar, we both recognise and appreciate the incredible resource that now allow us to connect with and share passion for the ocean virtually, bringing so many people closer to it than ever before. We believe that however far away you are from the ocean, you can still coexist, love and protect it, even from a distance.

I am a huge fan of the work happening on St Joseph's Atoll in the Seychelles - from discovering how nesting sea birds fertilise algae on the coral reefs, which then draw in manta rays, to how the atoll's lagoon acts as a nursery for various sharks, I think it is the perfect example of ocean conservation and coexistence.

I've talked about coexisting with the ocean from the perspective of a (very) rural Brit, who did not have access to the ocean growing up but has since gone a journey of discovery in my twenties and become "waterborne". Now, I spend most of my time researching the ocean for television documentaries to communicate its importance for the masses, and when I'm not doing that I'm surfing, swimming and more recently, scuba diving - something I plan to do much more of!

I am an advocate for adopting a less human-centric view of the world. In these critical, determinant times, we must account for the unique and complex perspectives of all life forms, especially those that are so vastly different from ourselves. For me, diving, as well as marine biology, are ways in which I remove myself from the constraints of human centrism in order to truly coexist with the world around me. Thank you for taking the time to review my submission and hear my message!!

I am a seaweed scientist, artist, and multimedia communicator for our marine sanctuaries. The ocean is more than just a place - its my laboratory, art studio, and place to connect with myself and nature. I’m passionate about the Blue Mind theory and the therapeutic benefits of the ocean. My purpose is to connect everyone to the ocean in some way - through creativity, surfing, photography, fun, and wonder. This is how we coexist.

Words cannot fully express how grateful I am for the opportunity to simply participate in this competition. Crafting a response to such a meaningful and important question within the space of a three-minute video was a truly beautiful challenge (and if you catch the bloopers, you’ll see just how nervous and excited I was... hope they bring you a smile!). Thank you for creating these opportunities for all of us.I feel like there is nothing I can say that you don’t already know, except that this is the dream of my LIFE. Just the thought of learning from leading scientists fills me with immense excitement, knowing that this experience could quite literally change my life.

I also want to use this space to thank Mario, my photography teacher and a wonderful storyteller, who so generously lent me his studio and shared his knowledge to help me make this video the best it could be. He chose to stay behind the scenes, but just like my family and friends, who patiently shared their feedback with me, even when I made them re-read all 20 versions of my script, they absolutely deserve this recognition and my deepest gratitude... If I make it far, it’s definitely because I walked this path surrounded by incredible people who have supported and shaped me along the way.

Overflowing with excitement and hope,

Hi there! I hope you enjoy my video. Since I have not traveled to tropical places and have never been scuba diving before, my entry is made up mostly of videos that happen above water. I hope this doesn't take away from my overall message though - I am indeed very passionate about nature, and am planning to pursue a career in documentary filmmaking, as per my studies in Film and Sustainability. As you will see or have seen, my video strays away from a glamourous image of the underwater world, and instead proposes another view of our oceans and how we experience them. I would love the opportunity to learn and explore more about these ecosystems with CoExist, and am thrilled to take part in this exciting competition.

It’s hard to put into words the pride I feel seeing how some Mexican fishermen have evolved and achieved harmony between what they have and what they do, helping to coexist with our oceans. They understood that if they continued fishing at that rate, there would come a day when they would have nothing to bring home.With wisdom, they reinvented themselves, seeking help from others and dedicating themselves to teaching what they had always loved: the sea. As someone who has witnessed this process of transformation, I can say that if they can do it, we all should!

The only way to save our oceans is to teach both children and adults the right path to take, showing them how we can live in balance with the sea, preserving what gives us life.

I’m a filmmaker from Colombia, focused on changing the world through storytelling.Long ago, evolution gave us the ability to walk on land. We are no longer designed to live underwater, yet we’ve found ways to return. But in doing so, we’ve also distanced ourselves from the ocean—not just physically, but in our understanding of its importance.

Today, we are merely guests in an environment that most have forgotten was once our home. And yet, despite its vastness, the ocean is more fragile than we realize. Overfishing, plastic pollution, coral bleaching, and climate change are pushing marine ecosystems to the brink. Rising temperatures and acidification threaten the delicate balance of life beneath the surface, and the damage we inflict does not stay in the ocean—it ripples back to us, affecting weather patterns, coastal communities, and even the air we breathe.

I’ve been fortunate enough to experience diving—to see, with my own eyes, the ancient world we left behind. I believe many people see the ocean as something distant, an abstract concept. But if they had the chance to glimpse the wonders they unknowingly ignore, they too would understand the urgency of protecting it.

And it’s not just about what the ocean gives us—its resources, its oxygen, its role in regulating our climate. It’s about what we can give back. Not just undoing the harm we’ve caused, but helping the ocean thrive, for all the life it sustains.

That is why we must coexist—not just to survive, but to thrive together.

And I believe it is my duty to inspire this change through the stories I tell.

As an aspiring Chief Coexist Officer, I’m officially throwing my hat (or maybe my snorkel) into the ring for this position. The Ocean is the most essential worker on Earth, and I’m ready to advocate for its protection. If you have any questions about my qualifications, feel free to contact my esteemed reference:

My friend Sergio and I are applaying together but he has his own video. We study really hard at university, and having the chance to put all that knowledge into practice would be amazing. My dream job is to be a scientific diver and researcher, so I would also love to meet people in the field.

I have been editing this video over the last few weeks. Plastic pollution is a subject that is really important to me and an area of conservation I want to focus on in future. I hope you enjoy my video.

There are so many more reasons we need to Coexist than the ones mentioned in the video. Before submitting, I had to considerably lower the quality of the video to the maximum allowed by you. I hope you like it, even if it's far from perfect, it was made with a lot of love. 🙂

Hello, my name is Francesca. I am a 19-year-old student currently having an amazing time studying marine biology at the University of Southampton. As I am studying, I learn more each day that without coexisting with our oceans, we cannot survive. I don’t want to be a part of a future where the ocean has declined beyond repair and future generations learn about the current marine species as part of the fossil record. I have a scuba diving qualification, and my dream is to be able to use this skill and my scientific knowledge to protect our oceans, preserving life for future generations. Last year I had the best experience of my life in Greece, volunteering to help record and preserve Loggerhead sea turtle nests, in which I learned many survey and conservation techniques and met many amazing likeminded friends along the way. I also share my experiences through an Instagram account (@shore_le.marinebiology), posting about navigating the world through a marine biology lens and connecting with others on social media to spread climate change awareness. Some of the pictures I included within my video I took during my time volunteering abroad and from my time at university.I could talk for days about why we need to co-exist with our ocean: we need to preserve the beauty of species and habitats; reduce ocean warming so that it continues to take up CO2, mediating climate change; preserve marine populations to keep our economy from collapsing; and so on. However, in my video, I decided to focus on the social aspect the ocean plays within human culture and the history of that through time. This is because I know that as climate change worsens and the sea level continues to rise, the first communities to be affected, and they are already being effected, are the coastal ones that have their whole way of life fitted around the ocean. They are losing jobs as fish species are declining and increasing sea level rise is causing more floods and storms that are destroying their homes and causing fatalities. I also talk about what the ocean has already provided us, to convey that we have a huge dependency on the oceans, not just because it mediates the impacts of climate change with its heat distribution and CO2 uptake but also for reasons not so obvious, like cultural and economic factors such as providing medicine, food, and traditions. What we give back to the planet, it will in turn give back to us, and I want to give it all I’ve got, which is why I applied to this programme. I believe this once-in-a-lifetime program would equip me with invaluable knowledge and experience to fulfill my dreams and open my mind to the beauty of the habitats in the Seychelles.

My video is a message to the next generation, reminding them that while we face many challenges, the solution lies in coexisting with our environment. As a young First Nations Indigenous woman, I share the perspective that our people have lived in harmony with the land since time began. However, as the environment changes, we risk losing this way of life. But if we embrace and uphold these traditional ways of caring for Country, we can do more than just coexist we can create a truly sustainable future. I am so passionate about the environment and my dream is to do research on global Indigenous land care practices so we can preserve the environment better because these communities have lived in harmony with there environment forever. I've loved animals and the environment since before I can remember and I want to say thank you for your consideration.

Hi im Nicolas Calderon, I'm a Scuba diving instructor with a focus on marine biology and conservation, I'll start a marine biology degree on the second semester of 2025 i been around Colombia and south east Asia diving and freediving working in marine conservation projects and teaching new people to get into diving, now im starting to make content for my social media to help teach people about why restoration is so important and make marine biology more accesible to everyone.My favorite thing is to share the sea I love with the people I love, so this trip would be a way for me to invite my best friend to share this world with me and learn more ways that go beyond and add to what I already know about conservation to help me teach it to more people in my community in Colombia

I think the present is a critical moment for the ocean and we need to act now to restore it, we need to learn to Coexist for the benefit of both the ocean and humans

Even though my video is mostly filled with snow and ice, I actually love summer and sunlight (when we get it in Sweden…). Visiting the Seychelles would be a dream come true - not just to experience the incredible marine life, the unique landscapes, and the warmth, but also to meet the scientists and teams working on Coexist projects. Learning more about their work would be invaluable, especially as I’m considering applying for a marine biology program!

Winning the Co-Exist competition would be a transformative milestone, empowering me to create compelling video content and educational resources that showcase the critical role of protected areas and the animals that call the Seychelles home. Through immersive storytelling visuals, I would highlight the profound benefits of preserving wild spaces, demonstrating how conservation safeguards ecosystems and species for future generations.The Seychelles stands as a global model for marine and terrestrial protection, offering invaluable insights into the delicate balance between human coexistence and nature. By immersing myself in its rich biodiversity, I would deepen my understanding of these conservation efforts and use my camera as a powerful tool for advocacy, bringing these stories to the world and inspiring action to protect our planet’s most vital ecosystems.

As an established marine conservationist, winning this competition would mark the next phase of my journey, which is transitioning into a full-time educator, using visual storytelling to connect people to the beauty and importance of our natural world. Visiting the Seychelles has long been a dream of mine, and this opportunity would not only fulfill that dream but allow me to share its beauty with the world, sparking a deeper appreciation for conservation and the need to leave parts of our planet wild.

The ocean is our life-source, our playground, and our teacher - we must treat it with the care and respect it deserves.I've come to believe that our true nature is to coexist with the water that sustains us. We are not separate from it, but an integral part of the delicate balance of life on our planet.

By embracing our innate connection and nurturing our symbiotic relationship with the ocean, we can find the peace, wonder, and balance that has eluded us for too long. The answer is simple, really - it's in our nature to coexist.

Hello, the ocean is a marvelous place with millions of bright colors, from the coral to the fish, it is so beautiful words can not describe it.
There is a lot of material documenting this scenarios and animals, nonetheless, despite possibly making me lose this amazing contest and opportunity, I decided to make my video with as much of personal footage as I could.

I haven't gone to a lot of places and I'm still not a diver (fingers cross will be in the next few months) but still, my images are authentic and I hope that counts for something. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did while living those moments as well as when remembering and reviewing the images.
I had a lot of fun just putting this video together, I had to cut a lot of personal information to not surpass the 2 min by much, but would love to chat a bit more about my experiences and my hopes for a better tomorrow if you’re interested! And if you're curious why there is a small gif of Lilo as well as one of the movie's songs in the background, those were small the easter eggs I couldn't contain. Growing up watching Disney I fell head over heels for Lilo&Stich, I already loved the ocean and though the Hawaiian culture and costumes depicted were a marvellous example of how our ancestors new how to respect and coexist with nature.

Aloha,
All of the underwater footage in the video that I am in was taken by my partner who would be my +1 for this adventure. Every video just of wildlife I took myself! I am a divemaster and professional free diver Freediving down to 50 meters. I have worked with sharks as a safety diver and photographer in several different locations and they are my absolute favorite. I am experienced in educating people about challenging ocean topics as I have spent the majority of my life working to correct the misunderstood reputation of sharks as apex predators rather than monsters. This started as a passion project and then transferred into my degree when I attended the University of Hawaii to study the effects of bycatch in the commercial fishing industry specifically how this impacts pelagic shark species. My partner and I run Hawaiian Adventures Kona where we work hard to connect people with the ocean to give them a sense of what they should be fighting for. We are able to contribute to research in our area surrounding sharks, rays and cetaceans as we are out on the water every day. The more I explore the ocean the more I see how critical it is to spread the word about making changes in the right direction and learning how to coexist with our oceans and their inhabitants. This year is a pivotal year for this topic with more commercial fishing issues coming into light, massive bleaching events happening around the globe, and of course all of the recent environmental policy changes happening in the United States. All of these events outline the importance of showing people what we have to fight to save when it comes to our precious oceans.

The ocean is a fascinating ecosystem filled with some of the most amazing animals and plant-life, and there is still so much of it yet to be explored (we are only just scratching the sea's surface). With the damages that are occurring to the ocean due to our lack of care towards issues such as pollution, ocean acidification, ocean warming and overfishing, we might not ever be to explore these unventured areas. Co-existing means learning to share our planet with the things that came before us, and using our curiosity and ambition as a species to help and protect the ocean, not to drag it down.

The chance to win the competition would be a unique opportunity to learn more than ever about our oceans with the Co-exist Projects team!

As a nature lover I understand the importance of protecting our world and I’ve been particularly passionate about marine conservation since 2011! I’ve taken part in beach cleans, planted mangrove trees, contributed to Reef Check Surveys, and hosted outreach activities to engage local communities in conservation activities. I’ve documented the connections between communities and the ocean in Zanzibar, Tenerife, and Australia and worked with a sustainable swimwear brand that recycles plastic bottles from beaches to create their pieces. Fundraising for UK and European charities, and creating photography and video content for a Sustainability Champion of the Year travel company, I’ve promoted sustainable travel and enjoyment of the great outdoors. So, your inclusive commitment to encouraging everyone to CO-EXIST in harmony with our oceans really resonates with me! I love that you invest in research and support initiatives like Project 360 to reach new communities. I would love the opportunity to join you in your work and to uncover more about your work in the Seychelles and beyond!

This is a little story about me, someone who fell in love with our ocean and is heartbroken over the tragedies that befall the great ocean, done mindlessly by our species. From the beginning of time, we have been in coexistence with the ocean, we respect them until we're not. Thinking that we are above nature, we take and take without thinking about the damages. We thought it would not come back to us, but it definitely would, and has! We need to do better, to change the way we're coexisting with our ocean, because we cannot live without it.

My video looks back at my trip to Kenya working with a turtle rehabilitation centre which was life-changing. I got to share my experience on Instagram and educate others, whilst also realising my expectations could impact similar projects. I'm drawn to the ocean and a huge part of that means saving our oceans. It calms me and grounds me, and regardless of life worries or job woes, I always come back to the ocean. We have a responsibility to learn about our negative impact on them and protect them. Learning about marine biology and how I can have a impact requires experiences like this. It is a dream of mine to scuba dive, to swim with whale sharks. I'm 32 and already trained in theatre - but the world is a stage and we must protect it.

It was so life-changing I got a green sea turtle tattoo with ocean waves on the carapace! I hope it always reminds me to "roll with the waves".

My video submission is a short film under 2 minutes, shining
light some of the questions that come to mind when considering
an ideal future in which we coexist in balance with our oceans.
The hope is not to re-emphasise existing conservation media,
but to deliver a message that conveys aspiration, educates and
encourages the viewer to reflect, in a call for action.

A compilation of video footage is used to visually represent the
beauty and wonder of the ocean, consisting of some of my own
footage (Drone/Underwater/Digital Camera) and some from
reputable sources such as the Schmidt Ocean Institute and
freelance videographers. Video Editing (VFX, Transitions,
Composites, Colour Grading) and Sound design (Original
score, SFX) is used to transition between imagery in a cohesive
manner.

Variations in musical aesthetic throughout the piece
are used to convey emotion and the sincerity of some of the topics addressed.

As I mentioned in the video, I have worked extensively against the negative impact of human activity on marine ecosystems, and as I have a passion for learning about marine wildlife, I believe we must protect the oceanic environment as it keeps our planet healthy. We need to ensure that this legacy will be passed down to our children to protect and enjoy for themselves.

There are so many things we can't express in 2 minutes, so I chose to focus on what seems to be the most important to me: solutions and people.I am currently working as a marine biologist for Blue Alliance Inc. which tackles these different topics in the Philippines, Indonesia and Tanzania.

Hello, my name is Giorgia Romano, I live in Italy, and I decided to participate in this contest because the topics addressed are very important to me, I believe this is just the beginning of a journey that will help me to develop a global perspective, a vision that allows me to better understand how to face the challenges our world is experiencing. Every wave that crashes on the shore, every creature that inhabits the ocean dephts, remind us that life is a miracle to be respected and protected. I've been swimming since I was little, I also practiced swimming at a competitive level, but then I stopped because I don't really enjoy competition, anyway the sea has always been a part of me, I believe each of us has a duty to preserve what is most precious to us, and the sea is one of the most fragile trasures we possess. In the video, I’ve included the most significant moments through videos and photos, I hope you enjoy it. In any case, thank you so much for this opportunity and for listening to my story!!

I'm Sergio, a passionate ocean advocate and content creator focused on diving and ocean conservation. Through my videos, I not only showcase the beauty of the ocean but also raise awareness about the importance of protecting it.Every time I dive, I make it a mission to collect any trash I find, showing my audience both the wonders of the underwater world and the impact of human activity.

This competition is an incredible opportunity for me to learn more about marine conservation initiatives and share that knowledge with my community, inspiring more people to care for our oceans.

There is no question whether we need to coexist with our oceans or not because there are so many reasons why we wouldn’t even be able to live without the ocean. Our oceans regulate the climate, sustain biodiversity and produce oxygen.
The question here is rather do we recognise the importance of sharks for our ecosystem? That is exactly what I try to achieve with my shark photography: raising awareness and educating people with the help of aesthetically beautiful and powerful images.

For years, we’ve taken so much from the ocean, and now we’re seeing the consequences more than ever. We need to coexist to give back and help restore our beautiful oceans.The journey I described in my video, opened my eyes to both the beauty and the fragility of marine life. When I first became a diver, I was amazed by the beauty of the underwater world. But on my dream dive trip, I saw something heartbreaking—a turtle tangled in fishing line and a reef that had lost all its color. This hit me in a way no statistic ever could.

But that experience also led me to hope and more interest in ocean conservation, especially coral reef restoration. I’ve seen how scientists, divers, and local communities are working to restore what’s been lost.

This year, my goal is to take coral restoration courses and do my part to help our oceans.

To me, coexisting with the ocean means respecting it, protecting it, and giving back instead of just taking.

I also believe that education is crucial. If I hadn’t learned so much from documentaries and my dives, would I feel the same deep connection to the ocean? I truly believe that the more we learn, the more we care. That’s why I started my channel, @bubblydiver—to share knowledge about marine life and inspire others to protect it.

Info:
I have found it hard to put the words together to describe how I feel about our oceans- not in a "I'm-bad-at-expressing-myself" way (although that is true too) but because it's difficult to say how or why I feel so grateful, and so connected to the sea.My dad moved my family to the seaside in the uk when I was young, and it has always been a place of solace for me, whether I was heartbroken, elated, sulking or simply procrastinating studying!! I tried scuba diving for the first time when I was 19, and fell in love with it immediately. Being able to experience the underwater world like that was truly an amazing gift.

Of course as you know, getting to see the ocean like that unfortunately often comes at quite a high price- making it something that hardly anybody has the chance to do- even being confident swimmer is a privilege. I think that maybe that also means that people don't always get to see the consequences of our human actions, and the toll that takes on our waterways and marine life.

This is why I feel like organisations like yours is so wonderful. I am so grateful for the opportunity this competition offers, and making the video has reminded me why I love the ocean, and why I want to strive to coexist as much as possible with it!!

I made the video completely with videos filmed on my phone over the last few years.

Hi! We are very grateful for the work you do and the opportunity of working with your project. We have taken our time to create a video we are proud of because we really love what you stand for and would love nothing more to experience what you offer. We are extremely passionate about sharing our underwater world with others, especially those who have never had the opportunity to see it firsthand. we believe it is hard for people to care for things they have no exposure, connection or understanding towards. when rainforest are cut down its hard to ignore but no one sees the sees the destruction of underwater ecosystems by commercial trawlers, the slow increase in ocean temperature and acidification or the countless number of animals killed as bycatch. It is our life's passion to be a voice for the ocean and we believe the first step is exposure and understanding. Our video highlights the beauty of our underwater world and the urgent need to coexist with it.

I created this video with many of my own clips, filling in the rest with stock video when I didn't have something to fit the theme. I am a registered nurse who recently learned to dive and have completely changed my lifestyle to revolve around the ocean. I am prioritizing activities in marine conservation and this video is an example of my passion and how I think we can make a difference!

Being an ocean advocate is more than a path, for me it is a mission and a life journey that has lead me to meeting some of the most passionate and interesting people. Ocean advocacy not only is a beautiful cause, but it also makes us so aware of what this world is going through. The topics involved in this field are mind blowing from nutrient saturation, species migration, the nitrogen cycle and so much more. It is our klueana (responsibility) to use our voices and educate others on ocean health topics. I would be honored to be part of this project and network with such experienced scientists in the field, I hope to engage with even more ocean lovers interested in making a change in this world.

I found it so hard to fit all the reasons why we need to co exist with our incredible oceans into 2 minutes. But hopefully I’ve put enough in to inspire other people with ideas & motivation

I could have gone on and on!
Our oceans are the lifeblood of our existence. Now, more than ever, they are so important to regulate our climate.
They support us with food, jobs and resources.
But we can coexist sustainably with our oceans.
I launched my sustainable travel company for exactly that reason. I want people to reconnect with our oceans, whilst supporting local communities and contributing to positive change.
By partnering with mangrove reforestation projects, not only will I be contributing to offsetting carbon emissions, I will also be helping safeguard a habitat for fish nurseries. Species that are so important for communities that rely on them for food and income. Done sustainability, through coexisting, humanity can thrive.

My name is Karla, and I’m from Mexico City. My love for the ocean was inspired by my mom, who was a diver. So I’ve been coexisting with the ocean my whole life. As I explained in my video, I believe the real question isn’t why we should coexist with the ocean. The question is- are we choosing to do it? And if so, how far are we willing to go to make it happen?We are just passengers on this earth. So our purpose should be to learn, to grow, and to do it consciously, with respect for the world that sustains us. Our responsibility isn’t to extract endlessly, but to coexist.

I want to emphasize the importance of the ocean in how it has fueled my creativity – a very important aspect of my life. The ocean has been a constant source of inspiration for me. As a child, I spent countless hours exploring the shoreline near our family summerhouse, collecting shells, watching the waves, snorkling and looking at the crabs crawling around on the sea floor and wondering what else lay beneath the surface out there. These early experiences sparked my curiosity and love for the ocean, which later found its way into my art as I started illustrating marine life.

When I learned to dive, my perspective on the ocean changed completely. No longer was it just something I admired from the shore and above – it became a world I could step into. Seeing marine life up close, observing how everything coexists, and witnessing the beauty of even the smallest creatures deepened my appreciation and creative inspiration.

Now, as an adult and aspiring marine biologist, the ocean continues to shape the way I see the world. It influences my work, my passions, and the way I express myself. And I know I’m not alone – artists, scientists, and storytellers worldwide draw inspiration from the ocean, often using their creativity and hard work to support conservation efforts – something I aspire to do as well.

Co-existing with the ocean is crucial for both environmental and human well-being. The ocean covers over 70% of the Earth’s surface and plays a vital role in regulating climate, producing oxygen, and supporting biodiversity. It provides food, jobs, and economic benefits through industries like fishing, tourism, and shipping. However, human activities such as pollution, overfishing, and climate change threaten ocean health. By adopting sustainable practices, reducing plastic waste, and protecting marine ecosystems, we can ensure that the ocean continues to sustain life on Earth. In return, a healthy ocean helps maintain global balance, benefiting all species, including humans.

I created a project called EcoShanti Eco for ecology and Earth and Shanti which means peace, this project aims to promote ecological harmony and a way to educate people on how to build a peaceful relationship with environment by transforming our own selves. I like to have more science base tools or nature based solutions as practical and pragmatic ways to achieve the goals in the targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework GBF in a time where war and violence are ravaging our planet and communities peace and harmony can help us create a prosperous future for all humanity and all forms of life on our beautiful planet Earth.

As a person and a marine biologists i know how important the ocean is and in my daily life i advocate about the much needed protection of marine life. In my video I talked more about the problems we are facing in the Mediterranean region, due to overfishing, destroying the natural habitat of endangered species and the invasion of alien species such as Lagocephalus sceleratus and Pterois volitans, as a result of global warming.

In addition, the climate crisis, leads to the bleaching of coral reefs, which are important to our oceans, hosting a truly amazing biodiversity of species and diverse ecosystem. On top of that, there is a mutual relationship between humans and coral reefs, as they rely on them for food and protection, from coastal erotion. I strongly believe that spreading awarness and teaching young minds about the issues that our oceans are facing, we can all coexist and fight on their side. Increased research and outreach on critical issues, we can all learn more about our oceans and ensure the health of them for future generations.

My video doesn't do the importance of coexistence justice; there's always more to be said!!

In under two minutes, I shared a personal story that shaped my lifelong dedication to marine conservation. But there’s so much more to say.Coexisting with our oceans isn’t just about protecting marine animals—it’s about protecting ourselves. The ocean produces over 50% of the oxygen we breathe, regulates our climate, and sustains over 3 billion people who rely on it for food. Yet, we are destroying it. Plastic pollution is suffocating marine life, overfishing is collapsing ecosystems, and coral reefs are disappearing at an alarming rate.

My video is more than just a message—it’s a call to action—a reminder that the ocean doesn’t need us, but we need the ocean. The future of marine life, and our own, depends on the choices we make today.

I’m not just another marine biology student—I have lived this passion since I was six years old. I’m an advanced scuba diver who has experienced the beauty of the ocean firsthand. I don’t just study marine life—I immerse myself in it. My dream is to open a rescue, rehabilitate, and release hospital for marine animals, and winning this competition would give me firsthand experience with marine scientists in the field.

If chosen, I will use this opportunity to share everything I learn—through social media, advocacy, and outreach. I don’t want this experience to impact just me; I want it to inspire thousands of others to take action. Many videos will talk about the problem; mine tells a story that makes people feel it. If we want people to care about the ocean, we need to make them connect with it emotionally. That’s what my video does. This is more than a competition for me—it’s a chance to amplify a lifelong mission. I hope my passion, experience, and vision stand out and inspire action

Carina and I met in February 2022, interning with Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST) to conserve three species of sea turtle and their connected habitats. We instantly connected over our love for the oceans, sea turtles and most importantly nudibranchs! We live in different parts of the UK, and so when we catch up we love to talk about marine conservation in our chosen sectors, but most importantly try to spend time searching for nudibranchs and other macro-life. We initially bonded over a game of Ecologies, a marine themed food web card game, that's staple during fieldwork, and comes with us everywhere we meet - continually learning helps us to broaden our knowledge, even when off work!We feel that we have encapsulated our personal highlights and motivations on co-existing, and we look forward to the panel's consideration and the time spent in reviewing our video (and everyone else's!).

We're both lucky enough to work in marine environments, always striving to learn and understand more, and we'd love to extend to this to the opportunity of the Seychelles, learning from locals, marine scientists and the environment; to bolster our understanding of coastal resources and marine ecosystems. We hope to use this opportunity as a key learning experience, taking new values into our daily lives, improving others as a result. We're thankful for the opportunity to apply for this and look forward to hearing back.

Marine pharmacology holds significant potential, as many species remain unexplored. While 25% of our medicines come from rainforest plants - an area which has been relatively well studied - over 80% of the ocean is still uncharted. This leaves a vast opportunity for discovering new species and developing novel drugs. I'm particularly drawn to the field and hope to make a meaningful contribution later in my field.

As I mention in my video, I want to use this opportunity to make a tangible difference allowing the Seychellois community to better co-exist with their lived environment. This opportunity will allow me to do so and provide valuable data on cryptobenthic fish which are unstudied in Seychellois waters.

I’ve always felt at home in the water. The ocean isn’t just where I go; it’s part of me.
My father was a freediver, a man who didn’t just love the sea—he understood it, respected it. He passed that love to me, my sister, and now my niece.
We spent summers diving off wild, rocky beaches, and spitting in our masks to avoid fog. Funny that we were wearing fins more often than shoes. The ocean was our playground, our teacher, our safe haven.

From the wall of sharks of French Polynesia to the manta cleaning stations of Indonesia, I’ve been blessed to witness the ocean’s wonders up close. Every dive reminds me of its magic—and its fragility. These encounters leave me mesmerized. I am always humbled by the ocean’s power.

There are no words to describe the feeling of watching thousands of sharks cruise against the current, or locking eyes with a century-old sea turtle as it glides by, or seeing manta rays swirl above you like a ballet. Moments like these remind us why protecting the ocean is more than a choice—it’s a responsibility.
Nothing compares to the sound of a healthy coral reef—alive, buzzing, singing. And nothing is more heartbreaking than silence and a bleaching dying coral reef turned to stone. Or the sight of a turtle washed ashore, trapped in a net left behind by careless human action.
I’d rather swim with an old turtle as she glides through crystal waters—than see her tangled in a net left behind by a careless human. Wouldn’t you?
The ocean gives us oxygen. Corals are its rainforests. And yet, we harm them—through pollution, overfishing, and choices that put profit over protection. But we can change that.
Sharing my ocean adventures online has been incredible—not just for the stories, but for the impact they create. I love seeing people fall in love with marine life, learn to coexist with care and respect, and make more sustainable choices when they travel and explore.
Diving reveals a hidden world, but we don’t need to dive to feel connected. The waves, the sight of marine life—on screen or in the wild—remind us that we are all part of this Blue Planet.
There are a million reasons why we, humans, should coexist with our ocean. Science tells us we need the ocean. But beyond the facts, it’s simple: we protect what we love.
From beach cleanups to conservation, every action matters.
The ocean needs us. And the truth is—we need it even more.

coexisting with the ocean will not only benefit ecosystems and ocean processes but also the people who live so close by. The way we have treated the ocean in the past, we owe it a better and more sustainable future.

My name is Jade and I have been an Animal Rights activist since I was seven years old. I grew up with my Nanny who taught me my voice was valuable in the fight to stop Climate Change. She always taught me to coexist and respect every living thing on our planet. Little did I know that all those times I spent sat listening to my nanny talk would lead me on a 20 year Ocean Conservation Odyssey.I’ve spend the last 20 years curating my own research, predominantly on Orca Conservation. I have learnt a lot from talking to Ric O’Barry and watching The Dolphin Project, who I hope to work with in the future. I spend most of my time advocating and educating anyone who will listen on Ocean Conservation and have been a passionate voice in the fight against cetacean captivity. I also spend a lot of time raising awareness around protecting our Coral Reefs, again the Coral Gardeners being another charity I would love to work with.

Being from a small seaside city, I have sadly not had the opportunity to experience a near-pristine environment: I live in a city where I frequently clean our beach and generally see firsthand all of the damage we are causing our planet. It is nothing short of heart-breaking and due to my conservation ground rules of not disturbing captive or wild-living animals, it is unlikely I will see these creatures and places before they are damaged. I haven’t seen any ocean animals before and through research is my only way to see them ethically. I would love to document this experience and share it on social media to show people how real these issues are. I believe the time is now, we must create change, and I’m the woman to do it. With this much passion and heart, I can’t fail. The ocean needs us, and I’m here to answer the call and have passionately been doing so for 20 years.

As mentioned in the video, the last two years have radically changed the way I see ocean conservation. Experience volunteering with Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, going out with Greek fishermen who experience the stress of working in overfished waters, and learning from inspiring university lecturers has led to this. Now, I see coexisting with the oceans as an absolute necessity rather than just 'taking the moral high ground'. Because the planet is interconnected in ways most of us would never have believed, it is vital that we protect it from the worst anthropogenic threats. Again, in my view, these are industrial fishing and climate change: more broadly, the actions of large, unregulated corporations. I think that fixing this crisis will need marine protected areas and slashing of CO2 emissions, which need cooperation across borders. If we fail to coexist with the oceans, existing economic and societal pains will be exacerbated, and the vast majority of humans (save for the ultra-rich) will be worse off. The agony is that this scenario is avoidable, it just needs us to stand up to powerful international lobbies.

In the face of global development, we must consider our environment to ensure that as we keep extracting, we continue to restore. Our interconnected planet is often forgotten in the pursuit of economic growth. I believe bringing these issues to the communities that are the least connected to our reefs is where there is huge potential to make an impact. Crafting Coral is an initiative that can help create a space to tell stories and educate wider communities about why we need to coexist with our oceans.

In my video, I chose the perspective of why we still co-exist with the ocean while living away from it. Many people do not live near coastlines and are not aware of the impact the ocean may still have on them. So why should they even care about the health of our oceans? Why should they put in any effort in contributing to ocean's health? In this lightly serious video, I hope to raise just a little bit of awareness on the importance of healthy oceans for people, no matter where they live.

Alongside the disconnect between ocean health and our own health, I think that another vital element to develop is inspiring curiosity and investment into ocean health across all people, whether located near the ocean or inland. Curiosity will inspire further education which will help local people become more involved in sustainability and promoting conservation practices. Through community outreach into inland areas, younger people can be more aware of the opportunities education in the ocean provides, encouraging new scientist to contribute to environmental management.

Hi there, my name is Sina and since recently I work as a diving instructor on a small island in the Maldives. While doing my divemaster 2 years ago with IndoOceanProject, I learned so much about the importance of protecting our oceans and since then I always look for ways to contribute. These days it's mainly doing some citizen science and also making sure my dive students learn not only how to dive, but also how to do their best to protect the oceans. But my big dream is to combine my previous job of software engineering with ocean protection and looking at the many tech-driven efforts that are done to save reefs and marine life, I think chances are good to fulfill this dream in the future.
All the clips in my video are taken by me and making the video has shown me once again how incredible lucky we are to be able to share the water with so many interesting creatures, but also how important it is to protect all of them. It's so great to see organizations like yours and I'm very eager to see the other competitors video entries!

After pursing medicine for more than 6 years, I've decided to pivot and pursue conservation medicine. I found myself continuously coming back to working in conservation after every paper I submitted and poster I presented at biomedical conferences. Conservation medicine is the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health, and is becoming a larger part of the conversation we are having on global warming. We are at an impasse, we must analyze the ramifications of human health from how we are treating the animals and ecosystems we share the planet with. I love working on the ground, and have also found my special skill sets I can use to contribute to the global community passionate about protecting our waters. I believe that by connecting the health of all beings who share the planet, we can further protection and resilience work to prevent further damage to our oceans.

As a first generation student, pivoting from medicine was a difficult thing to explain to my family. But I've built my own path through entrepreneurship to support conservation work, and have even continued research in looking at how we can utilize natural solutions for human health. I've shared my story on how no matter what skill set or degree program we possess, we can repurpose them to work in conservation. As GenZ enters the workforce and we see an increase in intergenerational teams, it's more important than ever to bring more diverse perspectives and backgrounds into ocean conservation. I vehemently believe that through storytelling and leading through action, we can influence more individuals to improve their habits, pivot to work in climate, and learn to coexist with our oceans.

As a passionate angler who has spent a lifetime fishing in South Africa's oceans, I've repeatedly faced the same challenges. When a fishing line snaps, it results in the loss of the hook, lead sinker, and extra line. This frequent issue has serious consequences for our oceans and marine life. Fish, sharks, and stingrays suffer greatly, as hooks inflict pain, discomfort, and stress. Many of these creatures are left to cope with these foreign objects, while others sadly do not survive their injuries. Additionally, lost lead sinkers and fishing lines pose a threat to coral reefs. To tackle this problem, I propose the development of biodegradable fishing sinkers made from a blend of sea sand, pebbles, and shells, all contained within a biodegradable bag. If the bag is lost, it would break open, dispersing its contents and then decomposing naturally. Furthermore, I recommend creating rubber fishing lures from a digestible mix of seaweed or other natural materials with eco-friendly colorants. This approach would help protect fish and turtles that might accidentally ingest them.

Our oceans, vast and full of life, are essential to the health of our planet, yet they are bearing the heavy burden of human impact. As we enjoy the beauty of our environment—pristine beaches, calm waves, and the wonders of marine life—it's important to remember that beneath the surface, a different reality is unfolding. The oceans are struggling with the pollution we have left behind. The plastic that fills our streets ends up in the water, choking wildlife and disrupting delicate ecosystems. Toxic chemicals, waste runoff, and overfishing continue to damage the balance of marine life.Marine creatures—fish, coral, turtles, whales, and countless others—have no choice but to adapt to this toxic environment. Where once there were vibrant coral reefs, there are now bleached remains. Where once there were abundant schools of fish, there are now ghostly remnants struggling to survive. And as we look at our own environment, it’s easy to forget how connected we are to these oceans. They regulate our climate, provide food, and sustain a diversity of life that we often take for granted.

But the message here isn’t one of despair—it’s a call to action. Each of us has a role to play in this shared world. By reducing waste, embracing sustainable practices, and supporting efforts to clean and protect our oceans, we can help restore harmony. Co-existing with the oceans means taking responsibility for how we live and how our actions impact the delicate balance of life beneath the waves. We don’t just live alongside the ocean; we depend on it.

Together, we can protect and cherish the oceans, ensuring that future generations will know the beauty of thriving marine ecosystems, just as we do today. The time to act is now, for the oceans are not just the lifeblood of our planet—they are a reflection of our own care and respect for the Earth we share.

Ultimately, my video and it's sole take on my approach to coexistence isn't enough to inspire large scale change or unite the affected communities to act in favour of our oceans.

The beauty of the CoExist program is that everyone, regardless of their background or videography skills, and despite making no two videos the same, will all submit hundreds of under-a-minute perspectives talking in different languages, yet speaking to the same cause.

Already, we begin to CoExist.

At the time of viewing this, I will just be starting at Monash Univeristy in Advanced Marine Sciences and Arts double degree, and inducted in my first long term volunteer role: Mentone Marine Mammal Turtle tagging. (For reference, I have my OW with PADI and 20 hours)

Thank you to the CoExist cohort, I hope that no matter the outcome for me I can somehow be part of or begin to be part of the incredible work you do.

I'm Darcey and I'm a third year integrated masters student studying Marine Biology with Oceanography at Southampton University. I believe that we are all responsible for the health of our planet, and learning and coexisting with our oceans and the organisms within it will be the best way of ensuring that we have a sustainable and healthy planet.

The ocean is the heartbeat of our planet—it sustains life, regulates climate, and supports countless ecosystems, including our own. For Caribbean people, the ocean is deeply woven into our history, culture, and livelihoods. It has provided food, economic stability, and even shaped migration patterns for generations.But today, our oceans face immense threats—climate change, pollution, and overfishing are disrupting marine ecosystems and endangering the very resources we depend on. If we want a thriving future, we must respect and protect the ocean.

Coexisting with our oceans means recognizing their value, advocating for their protection, and taking action to ensure they remain a source of life and inspiration for generations to come. By working with nature rather than against it, we can secure a healthier planet, stronger communities, and a future where both humans and marine life can thrive.

I fell in love with scuba diving in October last year, and it has changed my life in the best way possible. I just spent all of my life savings (I've been saving up since the age of 10) on a solo trip across my country to go scuba diving again! The ocean has become such a big part of my life and now all I want to do is go diving and save the ocean.

It is one of my biggest dreams to dive with manta rays, eagle rays, sharks, you name it which is why this experience would be such a treat.

The fear I used to have for the ocean is something of the past, even though I really had to push my limits to achieve that. (All the credit goes to my older brother, a PADI Staff Instructor, who I will definitely be bringing with me if I get the opportunity to come.) I want to celebrate that. I also want to celebrate turning 18 soon, and I want to celebrate finishing school.

I have one last Cambridge subject to write I May, which is Environmental Management. I especially love the parts about marine conservation, and I am starting to feel like I might be able to make a career out of it.

I love the ocean and passionate about protecting it so future generations can enjoy it and benefit from it in so many ways before it's too late.

My video is about my journey and how I came to truly respect marine life and the ocean after being extremely fearful of it as a child.
The ocean is the lifeblood of our planet, supporting life in ways we often overlook but rely on every day to survive. It regulates climate, produces oxygen, provides food and livelihoods, and connects us all. Yet, we continue to take more than we give, and the balance has shifted. Without healthy oceans, ecosystems collapse, the environment deteriorates, and communities suffer. Every species - from algae and tiny plankton to the largest whales - plays a critical role in maintaining balance and biodiversity. When species disappear, the delicate natural systems unravel, disrupting entire ecosystems and threatening both their survival and our own.

Change starts with each of us. By educating others, staying informed, learning about solutions, and taking action - no matter how big or small - we can each make a difference. Even one conscious choice to protect our oceans can have a powerful collective impact. This isn’t just about saving marine life or keeping our waters clean; it’s also about securing our own future and that of generations to come. The ocean gives us everything - now it’s our turn to something give back.

This video has been made using Canva and its resources. Most of the footage is my personal content, however some images and videos have been sourced from stock footage online. Special thanks to the creators who make their content available for fair use.

I recently traveled in Southern Africa, and I was captivated by the deep connection between the people and their natural surroundings, as well as their strong commitment to conservation. This profound experience reinforced my dedication to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, inspiring me to seek opportunities to learn more about climate change and contribute to sustainable development initiatives. I am also looking to travel and engage directly with the regions most impacted by climate change, hoping to foster meaningful relationships and work with a global network to save the planet.

I believe in empowerment through education. I also know that facts and figures are boring. The truth is if that people learned from facts and climate reports, well the climate crisis would never have gotten so bad. Scientists have warned us of the impacts of climate change for decades, but scientific research alone doesn't inspire large scale change. So we need to accept that we can’t change people. We are simply trying to save the world. People learn from stories and edutainment and my mission to create fun ways to teach climate change so that anyone can understand it. I want people to realize how close this really is to home and inspire people to protect this world I love.

I love the nature, so this trip would be my special dream

We should strive to create alternatives to our current lifestyle that focuses more on sustainability and a circular way of living. We can only truly begin to care for the oceans and create a sustainable harmony with the ecosystems if we have changed how we fundamentally live and interact with nature as a whole. I believe the first step to achieve this is to instill in the minds of the people, especially the young generation, how important it is to care for the ecosystems, and to create a sustainable way of life in our modern world.

I'm currently studying oceanography and I wanted to focus on how interconnected the ocean is, and the consequence of humans altering just one thing. It is important that we understand how finely balanced everything is and the consequence of our actions. I wanted to suggest how as a community we can make these changes. Although my video just contains how we can make large scale change, I want to emphasise that we can all do our bit through switching from single use plastic to more sustainable solutions and moving away from fast fashion. We can consciously chose to cycle or walk to places instead of driving. We all need to consider our carbon footprint to ensure the ocean we love stays around. Thank you.

I’m steering my career to combine my passions as a BioDesigner with being an explorer and researcher, understanding and working symbiotically with nature is essential to be successful and sustainable in this field of work. I have been loving learning how to design with nature, not against it and I wish for this ethos to be harnessed in all fields of work and walks of life. Over the past few years I’ve won multiple scholarships based on my innovative BioDesign ideas which embody coexisting with nature. These range from harnessing the beauty and power of bioluminescent algae to create living interactive clothing; designing personalised garments which grow to the shape of the body using bacteria; to incorporating extremophiles within garments to increase our chances of survival in extreme environments. I’m continuously motivated and inspired by the natural world and continue learn from it every day. The ethos and mentality of learning to coexist with nature and the ocean is so imperative and is a shift that needs to happen in our global community in order to protect our ecosystems before it is too late. People seem to not care about something that doesn’t impact them, if we combine BioDesign into the everyday world and connect people with the environment around them we will be able to educate and change people’s actions to live harmoniously with nature.

Designing with sustainability in mind is essential to create a product which can begin to exist symbiotically with nature. We must ensure that our actions protect and regenerate the environments we explore. This ethos drives my work as exploration and innovation work hand in hand, and if done correctly and conscientiously can lead toward a world where we can coexist with the environment around us. An example of my work embodying this concept is through my current involvement with Ocean Culture Life - a storytelling and educational community dedicated to raising awareness on ocean-based issues. I am their Sustainable Textile and Merchandise volunteer, re-designing a new seaweed-based textile range for their merchandise line. I am connecting with seaweed-based fabric innovators such as Pyratex, Ecosphere and Keel Labs to explore the potential for this project to take form. Ecosphere and Keel Labs have already agreed to collaborate together under my direction, to set up a new manufacturing location in the UK where Keel Labs fibre can be turned into textile at Ecosphere's spinning factory. If this project goes ahead OCL will be the first organisation in the UK to take this step towards a 100% seaweed-based merchandise line! It is amazing to be a part of this community that not only champion and amplify problems happening related to the ocean, but also want to extend their mission and ethos of coexisting with the oceans right through to their merchandise. OCL has expanded my network to connect with marine biologists involved with the Sheba Hope Grows project which will provide valuable insight for my thesis design.

I have also just joined the community of SHE Changes Ocean, a collaborative initiative dedicated to driving more women-inclusive decision making, empowering women working at the forefront of ocean health - I am excited to see where this will take me. It would be an incredible opportunity to explore the reefs in the Seychelles and learn from leading scientists. I have already my Advanced PADI and I am actively seeking more expeditions which will advance my knowledge and diving skills. I want to become a PADI Divemaster so that I can expand the variety of projects I can apply my unique background of BioDesign, exploration and conservation to, which is why I am applying to research divemaster internships for when I graduate!

Caring for our oceans is a majorly important issue that should not be restricted to individuals that live close to the sea. The damaging impact of pollution, overfishing and species extinction has far-reaching consequences for us all, especially within our most vulnerable communities.

This makes it important to pass on knowledge about marine conservation to the next generation, so that we can share an appreciation for the world around us. This also helps to address practices that exploit and damage people’s livelihoods and animal populations.

We need to acknowledge how human life is intrinsically dependent on the environment.

I specifically mentioned third-world countries because, from my experience living in the first world, there's a lot of awareness through schools, universities, workplaces, and even the internet. However, in many third-world countries, people aren't as informed about issues like the state of our oceans unless their livelihood depends directly on them. As an Indian citizen, I've noticed this firsthand. For example, my family wasn't familiar with coral bleaching. When I told my mom about an upcoming diving trip, she asked me to bring back a conch. I explained that we shouldn't take anything from the ocean, as removing items can harm marine life. She suggested just taking one, not understanding why I firmly said no. This conversation highlighted the importance of spreading awareness about ocean conservation. Secondly, I think educating dive centers in these countries and the local population who depend on tourism will help with the conservation efforts.

In my video I speak about the motivation behind my drive to protect our oceans. I've seen many issues firsthand. And if I could create a longer submission video, I'd probably be saying something like this:

The importance of our oceans is generally underestimated. I think for people to understand the significance, complexity and beauty of our oceans, they have to 'see' very literally what's going on. If every photo or video I share inspire only 1 person to do just a little more, I'd be happy. And it doesn't have to be that difficult: join a local clean-up, buy more sustainable products, be more aware of the food you buy or join a citizen-science project. I know all the issues can seem overwhelming, but there's a lot of power in the little things.

Our oceans are the heart of our planet, providing us with oxygen, food, and life itself. Yet, we continue to exploit them, pollute them, and take them for granted. My video is a wake-up call—a journey from the ocean we dream of to the harsh reality we have created.I want people to feel the contrast, to see what we are losing, and to understand that we still have a choice. The place we dream of—pristine waters, thriving marine life, endless beauty—can quickly turn into a place of destruction and loss because of our actions. We must CO-EXIST with our oceans, not destroy them.

That’s why I asked my friends to share what the ocean means to them. Their voices in the intro are a reminder that you are never alone in this fight. The ocean connects all of us, and protecting it means protecting something that people we love deeply care about.

When I first came up with this idea, I planned to use images of polluted beaches from the internet. Little did I know that I would stumble upon them myself, just wanting to take a morning swim. The reality was worse than I expected.

This moment reminded me of a photo competition I once entered. I took a picture of a banana peel and a plastic bag floating in the water. They were "perfectly floating"—like fish. I titled the photo Fishes of Tomorrow. At the time, it felt symbolic. Now, it feels terrifyingly real.

Every action we take—reducing plastic, making sustainable choices, spreading awareness—can help turn the tide.

The ocean doesn’t need us. We need the ocean. It’s time we start acting like it.

I am an avid conservation steward in all aspects of my life. I believe that education and conservation go hand in hand with helping in the protection of our environment.I grew up in Puerto Rico, a small island in the Caribbean where all our natural resource conservation is of outmost importance. I grew up in the water, some may call me a fish, but it's where I feel the most comfortable. It's where I feel at home.

Calling this small island "home" for most of my life is the great driving power behind my conservation and environmental coexistence efforts. I love the ocean and have seen the changes it has gone through. It is the pushing force behind becoming a SCUBA and freedive instructor. Teaching gives me the opportunity to create awareness of our underwater environment and how to be interact and coexist with it. It is important that we all work together to educate and spread the knowledge on the state of the oceans.

Even though I'm not very good at creating videos or talking in front of a camera, I'm even more passionate about learning and sharing environmental knowledge. I'm interested in the most critical environmental questions and tackling the problems that we are facing for sustainable future. The most interesting part of marine environments to me is how we are all connected: from small phytoplankton that creates oxygen to atmosphere that we humans need to survive. But the role of people is something we need to re-evaluate. For too long we have over-exploited our oceans, when our role as humans should be the one protecting and conserving. This is my goal in life. To change the role. So if aliens would come to Earth, they would see us preserving our home and coexist with the nature, not exploiting and harming as a species above others.

Clips included in the video are from dives I did in the Great Barrier Reef and snorkeling with sharks I did in Hawaii!

This is my 45th year on planet Earth, and I feel like I’m seeing it with fresh eyes. I’m a rescue diver with a powerboat license, but my love for water started much earlier—learning to steer my dad’s canal boat and spending summers on the beach in Anglesey in the UK, jumping into rock pools and building sandcastles. Water has always been a constant in my life.Some might call this a midlife crisis, but I see it as an awakening—a realisation that every single action, no matter how small, leaves a ripple. I want to take everything I’ve learned—my studies in biochemistry, my background in teaching and community management, and my passion for design—and create powerful online learning experiences. My mission is to help people discover the oceans, understand their vital importance, and learn why we must coexist with them.

Without the oceans, there’s no life—no food, no oxygen, and no future. Yet, we’re facing a ticking time bomb: microplastics. Every second we wait, the problem grows. I’m determined to inspire change and make a difference for our blue planet.

I think it's so important to take care of our oceans for both human and animal life. We need our oceans , our oceans don't need us. It breaks my heart how horrible humans are to the ocean and I'd love any part in helping fix that.

I’m an experienced PADI OWSI with dozens of certifications and countless experiences with DSDs and snorkeling beginners, and while I value those experiences more than anything I would love to be considered for this opportunity in order to share my love and passion for the ocean with people who aren’t going to see it for themselves as well. I think the way we talk about something only a small group of people get to see is so important and I love the message of this organization and would be proud to work alongside it to create content that will change people’s worlds.

The ocean covers 70% of our planet, making it the very heart of life on Earth. To truly coexist with the ocean, we must give back as much as we take, protecting its life to sustain our own. Our future depends on the health of its waters, and we must fiercely look after it, ensuring marine ecosystems thrive. Pollution, overfishing, and climate change threaten its balance, but if we make ocean conservation our main goal, we can restore and protect this vital resource for generations to come. Through education and inspiration, we can empower others to join this mission, fostering a global movement to respect, protect, and cherish our oceans.

Hi, my name is Lyra i am currently studying marine biology at the University of Southampton. Before i began my studies i felt excited and passionate about the oceans, but now i also feel a strong sense of duty to help make a change in order to help our oceans. I have a deep love for marine organisms, habitats, science and the beauty of the oceans. My video shows clips of me diving and performing surveys from a conservation internship i participated in, in the stunning country of Fiji, this taught me the connection people have with the ocean and their fierce desire to see it prosper. I worked closely with the local community and it was amazing to see how the ocean was an integral part of their culture. Since starting at university i have started a public marine biology where i share my experience studying marine biology, from practical labs to art exhibitions, it not only to helps spread awareness but also to encourage me to further my experiences and understanding of the world we live in. Co-existing with the oceans starts with education, the better people understand the world we inhabit the more likely they are to make sustainable choices, that is why I enjoyed making this video project, as hopefully it will be educational to those who see it and i hope my passion for the oceans transmits through my video so other can experience the joy of the oceans

My video shares a little bit about why I am inspired to coexist with our oceans, and even though I could drone on and on about it, I managed to keep it to a short two minutes. So many more things inspire me than this little clip can convey, and I get misty-eyed even thinking about how beautiful our blue planet is. Just this morning I was on an excursion with my university colleagues to Bloubergstrand looking at different algal species on the shores. After the field trip was over, we stayed on and looked for more ocean treasures like blue sea anemones and octopuses (no luck there). People who share my excitement inspire me to continue learning about our oceans. As I'll talk a bit about in the video, coexisting with and appreciating our oceans is something a lot of us have lost. Before we can conserve it, we have to re-learn how to coexist and connect with it.

Who I am and Why We Must Coexist with the OceanHi, I'm Nadine, 28 years old from Belgium, and I'm super passionate about the ocean. Right now, I’m researching overfishing and looking into algae as a possible future food source. As a young and dynamic person, I believe it's important for us to work with the ocean, not against it.

The ocean is a huge part of our planet. It covers most of the Earth and provides so much of what we need to live. But we're hurting it. Overfishing is taking away marine life, and microplastics are everywhere, even in the deepest waters. On top of that, the rising temperatures in the ocean are putting everything marine life and humans at risk.

We can’t keep going like this. The ocean plays a huge role in regulating the climate, giving us food, and supporting all kinds of life. If we don’t do something, we’re going to lose more than just resources we’ll lose ecosystems that keep life going on Earth.

By finding solutions like using algae as food, we can start protecting the ocean in a smart way. We need to stop polluting and start taking better care of our waters. It's time to take action for the health of the ocean and our planet. Together, we can create a future where humans and sea life can live together in balance.

A PADI diver, Volunteer marine mammal medic, and a girl who loves the ocean.
I would love to help make a difference by learning from the experts while on this amazing trip and hopefully I can help spread more awareness about our ocean and the marine life within it, from the whales and dolphins down to the nudibranchs and corals.
I love a bit of hard work and I’m not afraid to try new things!

I'm studying environmental end natural scienze at university, a course that is specifically led by our inborn love for the sea. All my courses are about coexistence, environmental economy, ecology, exc.. but i would like to experience in my real life what we can do for the ocean, be there for it and take care of what we already ruined.
I'm full of energy, love to work and cooperate with a team and fascinated by new cultures

Join me on a breathtaking journey beneath the waves as I explore the beauty of our oceans through my diving and snorkelling adventures across different locations and countries. From encountering majestic hammerhead sharks to swimming alongside playful dolphins, each experience has deepened
my understanding of marine ecosystems and the delicate balance of life beneath the surface.

Why We Need to Coexist with Our Oceans:
🌊 The Ocean Sustains Life – It produces over 50% of our oxygen, regulates climate, and supports biodiversity. Protecting it means protecting ourselves.
🌍 Oceans Regulate Climate – Rising temperatures due to carbon emissions disrupt ecosystems.
Sustainable choices can help restore balance.
🐠 Marine Biodiversity is Essential – Sharks, coral reefs, and plankton all play a role in ocean health.
Overfishing and habitat destruction threaten this balance.
🚯 Plastic Pollution is a Crisis – Millions of tons of plastic harm marine life and enter our food chain. Reducing waste is key to coexistence.
🌊 Sustainable Tourism Matters – Ethical diving, snorkelling, and eco-tourism help us appreciate marine life without harming it.
🌎 Empowering Coastal Communities – Sustainable fishing and conservation create economic opportunities while preserving ecosystems.
💙 Miss Planet SA 2025 Mission – My goal is to inspire action and educate others on sustainable choices because coexisting with our oceans is essential for our planet’s future.

After years of humanitarian work in war zones, Covid marked a turning point in my life. I became painfully aware of the world's indifference to suffering and the geopolitical games that dictate humanitarian efforts. For my mental and emotional well-being, I decided to step away from that world.Diving had always been present in my life, but it became essential—a way to reconnect and find peace. I moved to Bali, became an instructor, and later discovered underwater photography. Yet, it was through video that I found my true passion: capturing the natural interactions of marine life.

Since then, I have dedicated myself to underwater videography, refining my skills and techniques while respecting marine ecosystems. However, the recent surge in tourism has had a devastating impact on Bali’s underwater world. I have witnessed firsthand the destruction caused by mass tourism and the relentless pursuit of the perfect shot, often at the expense of marine life' well being.

This journey has reinforced my commitment to storytelling through video—not just to capture beauty, but to raise awareness about the fragile balance of our oceans.
Discovering "WhyCoexist 2025" was a revelation—it aligned perfectly with my passion and vision. My goal is to use underwater videography to support marine research, capturing both the fascinating interactions of marine life and the vital work of scientists. I want to create powerful, engaging videos that not only document progress but also inspire action.

At the same time, I am deeply aware of the gender gap in diving in Indonesia. There are very few local female dive professionals, and I dream of changing that. By providing young women with the opportunity to learn to dive and earn their certifications, I hope to empower them to contribute to marine conservation and protect their own natural heritage. I believe that conservation and development start with awareness, education, and empowering local communities. Through videography, I hope to contribute in my own way—by sharing the beauty of the ocean and drawing attention to the biodiversity challenges it faces. My goal is to inspire, inform, and support those working to protect our marine environment. So does my video.

Hi there, me and my dive buddy Ray(Raaheal) were so excited to enter your competition and we hope you consider us. I have always been passionate about the ocean and its the one place I feel I can truly be myself. I grew up next to it and I've always wants to be mended to it my entire life. I would live to CO-EXIST with it in a impactful way and not just be an observer but a physical being that interacts and helps it with all that I am. I am currently in the tourist sector and that alone has a heavy impact on our oceans but I want to be the person that drives it to be solely positively impact full. Coral restoration has always been my goal but I still have a lot to learn and a long ways to grow before I can help and that's why I think your experience will catapult me straight into where I would love to be. I am currently completing my dive masters and my dive buddy Ray is on her way to getting it and me and her have set a goal to get us where we need to be and we want to co-exist together to leave a positive piece of ourselves in this world. I hope you consider us because we would truly embrace this opportunity with passion and grace and won't waste a second of it. Thank you for your time and let's do this!!! We are not great at editing but please enjoy footage from out dives together at the end of my video.

I got really nervous and emotional when making this video because it would change my life and push me towards living my life giving back to the world and becoming a conservationist. Although the oceans voice is beautiful, it needs advocates like why co-exist and myself to make a global impact that could potentially save not just inhabitants of the oceans but the world itself. The ocean is a source of natural power that has a impact on people whether they see(sea) that or not. It provides jobs,education,curiosity,fascination and is the reason in my eyes why the earth hasn't collapsed into itself yet. Thats why we need to co-exist but inorder to do that we need to give more than we currently take from the ocean.Most people think because their life only spans for 80 or less that they don't need to make any changes to our world but I'd like to be part of the population that dreams of a better future for species that last for 100's of years and not selfishly think of myself. I want to CO-EXIST with the ocean for the rest of my life and make my life's goal protecting it while I can.

The ocean—our planet’s life force. Covering over 70% of Earth, it gives us air to breathe, food to eat, and a home for millions of species and ecosystems that sustain life. But our oceans are in danger—pollution, overfishing, and climate change threaten their fragile balance. We can make a difference. Protecting our oceans means securing our future. Protect it. Preserve it. Let’s keep the oceans thriving—for us and for generations to come.

Why We Need to Coexist with the Ocean:
The ocean is the lungs of the Earth, it produces more oxygen than the Amazon rainforest. The numbers speak for themselves: more than 50% of the oxygen we breathe comes from marine phytoplankton. Protecting the ocean is essential for maintaining the air we depend on.
The ocean supports an intricate food web. Disrupting any part of it—whether by overfishing or pollution has a cascading effect.
Additionally, a large portion of the global population depends entirely on the ocean for food, livelihood, and economic stability. Fish alone make up a crucial part of the human diet, with millions of tons caught daily. Sustainable fishing practices are essential to ensure future generations can continue to benefit from marine resources.
Our planet’s stability relies on the ocean. Every ecosystem plays a role, and if balance is lost, the entire system collapses.
The ocean regulates climate by moving heat around the globe, transporting warm water to the poles, and influencing atmospheric conditions. It also plays a role in the albedo effect, which affects global temperatures and weather patterns.

The ocean has always been a place to go to, to clear my mind. I am grateful to have grown up in a city with an ocean culture, like Cape Town.There’s a long, deep history, here, related to restricted access to our beaches. As people of colour, we know it is a privilege to be on our amazing, local beaches and in its waters. This only makes us appreciate our beautiful shores even more.

Today, people of all backgrounds, local and foreign are drawn to the wonder of this city’s two oceans. Hence, it’s a good example of another reason why we should coexist with the ocean - it can bring people together.

I am submitting my video as a passionate Master’s student in Global Biodiversity and Conservation, with a Marine Biology background, expressing my interest in the opportunity to apply my knowledge and personal interests to an in-field programme supporting active participation in conservation. I am also a diver (SSI advanced adventurer level) with both cold water and tropical waters experience.

Through my scientific collaborations, I have explored the impact of human activities on wildlife, including the effects of infrastructure and environmental changes. Applying data analytics to ecological studies has reinforced the importance of data-driven solutions for conservation. The health of our oceans directly influences biodiversity, climate stability, and global food security, making it imperative to adopt sustainable fishing, pollution reduction, and habitat restoration strategies.
Coexistence with our oceans means embracing innovation, policy changes, and community engagement to protect marine environments. By integrating scientific research, technology, and awareness campaigns, we can ensure that future generations inherit thriving and resilient oceans. I am committed to contributing to this mission through research, data analysis, and advocacy for sustainable solutions.

Being able to win this competition would provide me with a huge step towards my own goal of coexisting with the ocean and studying its organism. Especially as my course in marine biology and ecology provides a professional diving module if you have the normal license beforehand, teaching how to dive professionally and scientifically. So winning this would also help me get to the point where I can professionally help conserve and protect the oceans.

I made this video to show that even living so far away from the ocean, I still feel connected to it. The oceans are our lifeblood that supports all life on the planet. We must take action, hold those accountable, educate and reduce waste as much as possible.

I hope my message came across clearly in my video, but I feel like there's so much I want to say. I really want to dedicate myself to protecting the oceans, but I'm not sure yet how to make it a central part of my future. Of course, we should also coexist with the ocean because, as humans, we are made up of a large part of water and, many years ago, thanks to evolution, we came from the ocean.

In my video, I talk about my personal experiences in the field of marine conservation and where I realized that coexist is important for all of us

The ocean is one of the most precious things we have on our planet and it has been viewed as a trashcan for way too long because how enormous it is and how trash just disappears into it. I feel like there is a switch in how we view our planet and trash (at least in Denmark), and I truly feel like one person can do a lot. There is beautiful and intelligent life below the waves and it's incredible to observe whenever I get the chance to dive. The feeling of being so small, but knowing I can convey the importance of protecting the ocean to the people I spent time with, that is so wild.

Our ocean is the lifeblood of our planet—a vast, living entity that unites us all.

In every wave and ripple, the ocean sustains life. It nurtures ecosystems, regulates our climate, and connects us all—serving as a reminder that every drop is indispensable.

However, when we disrupt this delicate balance through pollution, overfishing, and neglect, we risk not only the aesthetic appeal of the sea but also our future.

Coexisting with our ocean entails embracing responsibility and cherishing every current, every tide, and every living creature that calls it home.

By protecting the ocean, we safeguard ourselves. This is our shared legacy—a promise to nurture the water that sustains life, not only for the present but also for generations to come.

My name is Federica, and I’m an ocean lover from Italy. As a scuba diver and passionate traveler, I explore the underwater world to connect with its incredible creatures. This video is a journey through my most beautiful experiences and encounters with marine life, highlighting why coexistence is so important. We are not alone on this planet, and we must learn from animals how to live in harmony.

The Ocean gives us life and provides for us, which is why it’s time for us to give back to it and to protect it.I wish I could’ve prepared for the video better but I had to focus on studying for my exams (which I just finished today)
I still hope my love and passion for the ocean came across!!

The Amazon rainforest is commonly referred to as the Earth's lungs, the ocean however provides ample goods and services, key to life on Earth. I would argue oceans are the lifeblood of our planet, teeming with vibrant life and supporting systems. The oceans capacity for global impact include circulating and buffering heat, aiding carbon flux and supporting thousands of people all around the world. Whether you live close to the coast or landlocked, the ocean will impact your life. For billions, the ocean is a source of sustenance, providing livelihoods and aids human well being. Its depths hold secrets of untold biodiversity, with countless species that inspire wonder and awe. The ocean's gifts extend to medicine, offering cures and treatments that save lives. Yet, our oceans are in peril, threatened by pollution, overfishing, and climate change. I want to help change this. They are not just a resource but a vital part of our existence, a testament to the interconnectedness of all life on Earth.

We need to coexist with our oceans to preserve a very important resource, essential to guarantee a sustainable future, but above all which is the basis of the survival of the planet.

Our oceans should be protected and above all else, respected. The oceans should be treated with respect, but sadly not many people think of it in that way. One thing I would love to do is to scuba dive with sharks but not in a cage. I want to see them naturally swimming in their home. Sadly I’m not in ocean conservation but I am in wildlife rescue and I see daily the beauty of these land creatures so I can only imagine the beauty of each creature in the ocean. I love animals, and all animals should be treated with respect they deserve. I believe that we should start with educating people, because sadly people tend to be scared/angry at things they don’t know of so educating them may be a step forward in the right direction. We need to coexist with our oceans because without our oceans we can’t be here. It is an integral part of our ecosystem and we are not treating it way.

I think my video should have all the things I have to say in it:) This competition is an opportunity of a lifetime! Coming from where I come from, this would be such a huge step for me towards my dreams. Thank you for even giving the chance to take part!! Br, Susanna Mikkola, Helsinki, Finland

Hello! I am adding my participation from Greece! I introduce myself in the video, after making many efforts to create technically the best you could have ..but finally i decided to speak from the heart, originally, like nature speaks to us .I am sitting next to my water path, the coast, which leads me towards freedom, peace and rebonding with myself and the wider net of life, taking me to the depth of the sea for many years. When I enter, is like the very first time I feel complete, as a part of me that waits its way to the whole. In an era of dehumanization, I feel human again, going back to my wild authentic form when I was one with Nature in the uterus before I take my first breath on earth. Returning to this point I can communicate with the creatures of the sea, from this position, through feelings and spirit, with respect love and gratitude..because only through this path we can survive all of us in this planet and take action.

We need to get and give education so we can protect our marine life and nature and tell the next generations how to take care of our beautiful planet, so all the unbelievable species get to enjoy this world, breath clean air and live as healthy as possible.

I'm applying with my friend Yin but she sent her own video. Sorry for the bad pronunciation but my speaking is not great although I can understand it. Yin can speak fluently though. My favourite thing in the world is diving so I'm very greatful for this opportunity.

Since I was a kid I was in love with ocean life and whales especially. Watched a lot of documentaries about ocean life, I read books and make me feel I want to know more about it. I think is something that we should appreciate more, love more and take care of it. The ocean is part of our life, our existence, it keeps us alive and gives us hope. The video ispiration came from my traveling experience, seeing the whales, seeing the penguins. And of course the story is inspired from my love story. Love for the ocean and for my boyfriend inspired to create this video.

I’m lucky to live in a country that has a beautiful coastline and islands that are surrounded by it.
The river and the ocean are sacred for us, but nothing is perfect. I would like to see a bigger impact from the government and the people (myself included).

I think we must not only coexist with our oceans, but we must protect them because in the last centuries we have done nothing but attack them. It's time to be their guardians.

Animals have always been my passion, since I can remember. When I was 9 years old, I even sent a letter to National Geographic saying that one day, I would work with them.
Today, my goal is to finally pursue this lifelong passion and dive into the wonders of marine life. I want to share this passion with others because I truly believe that if everyone could see the ocean the way I do, the world would be a much better place! By inspiring others, I hope to encourage people to help conserve our ecosystems and protect the incredible biodiversity of our planet.
This vision—a world where we coexist harmoniously with nature—is the world I dream of. I want to make a difference, and I believe that through knowledge, technology, and passion, we can build a movement that inspires others to join the fight to protect marine life.
As I mention at the end of my video, we must coexist with our oceans, not exploit them. When we protect marine life, we are ultimately protecting ourselves. Together, we can ensure that the ocean thrives—not just for today but for generations to come!

Seeing tons of people still be uninformed about many things that breathe life into our planet is simply disappointing. Our Ocean remains to be one of the powerhouses of this world and many continue to trash and step all over it as if it was nothing more than a grain of sand. Coexisting with our ocean will definitely leave a mark and I will forever be there for it.

Coexisting with the oceans is necessary for our survival and the survival of the planet and what is there.

There are billions of reasons to coexist with the oceans, and I could go on for thousands of words (or send you hundreds of videos). These are just a few reasons close to my heart and deeply connected to my purpose. The bottom line? I am BEYOND passionate about the ocean. Nothing in the world matters more to me.

We need to learn be more respectful with our oceans and not to take advantage of it and coexist instead. The pollution and just dumping waste into our oceans is a massive problem but there are so many others as well like killing the sharks, whales and so many different species that have a remarkable impact on the ecosystem and balance on the earth. We just need to do better and I would love to learn more ways to make myself better and educate others.

Why We Need to Coexist with Our OceansThe ocean is not just a resource, it’s a life-sustaining force that regulates our climate, provides food for billions, and supports countless ecosystems. Yet, human activities like pollution, overfishing, and climate change are pushing marine ecosystems to the brink. Rising temperatures, ocean acidification, and plastic waste are threatening biodiversity, food security, and even human health.

Coexisting with the ocean means protecting it. It’s about adopting sustainable practices, reducing pollution, and transitioning to renewable energy while safeguarding marine habitats. It’s also about honoring the ocean’s cultural and spiritual significance, educating the next generation, and fostering global collaboration.

The ocean connects us all. By living in harmony with it, we ensure a healthier planet for future generations. Let’s act with urgency, humility, and a deep sense of stewardship.

Water has always been a vital part of my life. As a swimmer, it was my first connection to the world beneath the surface. Now, through kite surfing, surfing, and diving with my boyfriend, my appreciation for the ocean has deepened. Together, we’ve completed our Advanced Open Water Dive certification, and our passion for diving has led us to volunteer in ocean clean-ups and witness firsthand the incredible beauty—and vulnerability—of marine life and coral reefs.

The ocean isn’t just a playground; it’s a home to countless species and a crucial part of the planet’s health. We can’t afford to lose it. That’s why we need to CO-EXIST with our oceans—by reducing pollution, protecting marine ecosystems, and supporting sustainable practices. This contest is more than an opportunity to share my story; it’s a chance to inspire others to take action and ensure a future where the ocean thrives for generations to come.

The sheer mathematical odds of all humans and all living creatures even existing on a planet like this is a miracle. We must honor that gift and that miracle by doing all we can to preserve and protect this beautiful life and these beautiful oceans on our unique planet.

I have been a passionate diver since 1998. The longer I have dived, the more passionate I have become about conservation of our oceans. It was actually a lot of fun and an honor for me to just make the video and communicate how I really feel about ocean conservation for our future.