OUR FOUNDER - SARAH GERON

My connection with the ocean has been present since I can remember. From going snorkelling for the first time at the age of four in the most pristine coral reefs, to diving at the age of 7 with all kinds of marine wildlife that I had only seen in movies.

My fascination for the oceans quickly shifted to concern when I realised what was truly going on. From seeing plastics tied around turtle necks, to having to remove an abundance of hooks from the mouths of sharks, to the once so vibrant corals losing their colour.

I grew up in the Jaws aftermath, and having been exposed to the beauty and tranquility of sharks at such a young age I never understood what inspired fear in others. Precisely this fear that was present in the world is what drove me to try and do something that would change people’s perspectives on these majestic animals.

Growing up in the outskirts of Venice, the first shocking moment that brought me to a deeper realisation of the oceans needing our help, was on a trip to a fish mongers where they were selling the meat of a mako shark. The cruelty and ignorance towards the matter of preserving such vital creatures was a turning point for me.

After having worked closely with the Save our Seas foundation, and with the opportunities I had been given to expand my marine network and meet the real people that helped make a difference, I decided to start coexist projects in 2020.

It started off as a small idea, driven by three people that were hoping to make just a small contribution in helping the human race appreciate, understand, and most importantly coexist with our oceans.

Now in 2026, to see the global outreach that we’ve had and the amount of applicants that we inspire each year to join our WhyCoexist competition, I am beyond grateful to see that the message is being spread. Even more so, seeing all these young women apply to our competition is truly the most inspiring and rewarding gift, as we continue to overcome barriers and highlight the ideas and perspectives we bring to the table.

My goal has been and always will remain the same: to help people understand the respect that we owe to our oceans and the creatures that live within it. To work as a community and protect an ecosystem that has been fundamental in each and every single person’s upbringing. To help people understand the urgency of coexisting with the world that lives below our feet.

#helpsaveourseas.