Our Story
Who We Are
ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach is a U.S.-registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Costa Rica, dedicated to connecting communities with the ocean and fostering stewardship to crowdsource conservation.
We believe that small, collective actions create big change. Just as crowdfunding transforms many small donations into a powerful financial force, ConnectOcean applies this same principle to conservation — empowering communities to become contributors to a shared global goal.
Instead of donating money, communities contribute action: each one adopts and protects an ecosystem in its own backyard — a mangrove forest, watershed, coral reef, or a habitat for sharks and rays. These locally managed sites become Community Protected Areas (CPAs).
When connected, these CPAs form a network of protection — linking hundreds of small conservation “investments” into one powerful movement. Together, they create biological corridors that restore ecosystem connectivity, strengthen biodiversity, and accelerate ocean recovery from the ground up.
Through STEM-based education, citizen science, and mentorship, ConnectOcean builds the capacity of local people to protect and regenerate their ecosystems. Working through Regional Conservation Alliances, we co-create practical “how-to” guides and train-the-trainer certification programs that teach communities — in clear, simple steps — how to safeguard the ecosystems most relevant to them.
The result is an ever-growing grassroots movement of communities protecting the planet — one ecosystem, one CPA, and one collective action at a time.
How We Work
Our Key Features
The Challenge
Why It Matters
The ocean is Earth’s life-support system — it regulates climate, produces oxygen, and sustains billions of people. Yet it is under unprecedented pressure from overfishing, pollution, and climate change. To respond, the United Nations declared 2021–2030 the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, a global call to action to generate solutions for healthier oceans. A cornerstone of this decade is the 30×30 Initiative: the commitment to protect 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030.
of the ocean is currently protected — we are already more than halfway to 2030
75 yrs
at the current pace, it will take another 75 years to reach 30% protection
70 yrs
too late for the ecosystems and species we depend on. We need a new approach.
Our Approach
How ConnectOcean Helps Bridge the Gap
Large-scale Marine Protected Areas are essential, but government-led processes are often slow. ConnectOcean accelerates protection by enabling communities themselves to establish Community Protected Areas (CPAs) — practical, replicable conservation models that restore ecosystems and safeguard species right now.
Each CPA might focus on a stream, mangrove forest, intertidal zone, coral reef, open ocean site, or a habitat for at-risk species like manta rays or sharks. On its own, a CPA may seem small. But together, thousands of CPAs form a global grassroots network of protection that complements larger efforts and helps close the gap to achieve — and even surpass — the 30×30 goal.
Our Partners
The Heart of Our Work
Community Protected Areas (CPAs): The Heart of Our Work
What Is a Community Protected Area (CPA)?
A Community Protected Area (CPA) is a locally managed conservation zone created and overseen by the community itself, often in partnership with stakeholders and national authorities.
CPAs may protect mangroves, watersheds, reefs, intertidal zones, or species aggregation sites (such as manta cleaning stations).
Unlike national parks or government-imposed reserves, CPAs are bottom-up: they are initiated, shaped, and enforced by the people who depend on the ecosystem.
Why CPAs matter:
- Communities have the greatest stake in protecting their environment.
- Local knowledge ensures long-term stewardship.
- CPAs become hubs of education, stewardship, and regenerative tourism.
- CPAs are the outcome of ConnectOcean’s call to action — mobilizing and crowdsourcing conservation one community at a time.
- CPAs become part of a national framework that connects private, public, and government stakeholders to work together.
Community Research
Citizen Science: Building Knowledge for CPAs
Citizen science is when members of the public contribute directly to scientific research — for example, by collecting or analyzing ecological data.
At ConnectOcean, citizen science is the entry point that allows communities to:
Learn how ecosystems function.
Contribute data to global research.
Build the skills to monitor and manage their own conservation areas.
Benefits
Scientific literacy
People learn how science works and why it matters.
Integration of local knowledge
Traditional wisdom enriches research.
Expanded research capacity
Large-scale data collection becomes possible.
Stronger collaboration
Communities and scientists learn from one another.
The People Behind the Mission
Our Team
Ernst van der Poll
Ernst van der Poll is a seasoned ocean explorer and marine conservationist from South Africa’s east coast. With over two decades as a PADI Course Director, he has channeled his passion into significant conservation and community initiatives.
In 2012, Ernst founded ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach in Costa Rica, aiming to connect communities with the ocean and promote environmental stewardship. Under his guidance, ConnectOcean empowers individuals to actively participate in marine conservation, focusing on expanding community-managed conservation areas to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable resource use.
Ernst integrates citizen science into conservation efforts, enabling community members to engage in data collection and environmental monitoring. This approach enhances scientific research and strengthens community commitment to ocean preservation.
Beyond conservation, Ernst is dedicated to water safety. He founded Swim Safe Costa Rica, a program addressing the high incidence of drowning by educating communities on water safety and training minors in swimming skills.
Ernst also established Costa Rica’s National Lifeguard Federation, serving as its President, to create a national system for aquatic safety. His commitment extends to the Bahamas and Mexico, where he trains lifeguards and consults on water safety initiatives with key stakeholders.
Recognized for his contributions to marine conservation and education, Ernst continues to inspire others with his dedication to protecting our oceans and ensuring water safety for all.
Eric Madeja
Eric Madeja is a multi-award-winning environmental photographer and seasoned storyteller based in Borneo, Southeast Asia. As co-founder of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, he leads initiatives across the Asia Pacific region, utilizing visual media to advocate for natural heritage preservation. Coral Triangle
With over two decades in film and television production, Eric’s company, ConnectOcean Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd, operates AsiaFixer.TV and Borneofixer.com, supporting international film crews, journalists, environmental NGOs, and corporate clients across Malaysia, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and the Philippines. His expertise encompasses full-service production management, including permitting, location scouting, research, casting, and logistics. LinkedIn
A committed marine conservationist and avid ocean explorer, Eric has been diving for over 30 years, often with a camera in hand. His dedication to capturing and sharing the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems inspires meaningful conservation action, reinforcing ConnectOcean’s mission to protect and celebrate our planet’s natural wonders.
Sarah Travers
Sarah Travers is an experiential educator whose mission is rooted in fostering profound connections between people and the natural world. With a deep passion for nature immersion, Sarah creates joyful and meaningful experiences that inspire awe and curiosity about the beauty, resilience, and delicate intricacies of our environment.
Originally beginning her career in research, Sarah’s trajectory shifted dramatically when she became a scuba diving instructor in 2014. This transformative experience ignited her realization that nurturing genuine human connections to nature holds far greater impact than data collection alone. Since then, Sarah has dedicated her efforts to guiding individuals through immersive adventures across diverse ecosystems—from vibrant marine worlds beneath the waves to majestic alpine landscapes.
At ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, Sarah plays a vital role by designing and leading educational programs that cultivate environmental stewardship and community engagement. Her unique blend of passion, creativity, and expertise makes her an invaluable asset to the team, enabling ConnectOcean to inspire lasting commitment toward conservation and sustainable living.
Her educational approach emphasizes not only our reliance on nature but also our shared responsibility to protect it. Sarah’s heartfelt dedication and enthusiasm shine through in every experience she facilitates, leaving participants inspired and empowered as active stewards of the environment.
Juan Sio Guie
Juan Sio is an ecologist and sustainable development specialist with over two decades of experience in environmental conservation, community engagement, and education. As a founding member of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, Juan has played a pivotal role in designing and leading projects that promote regenerative practices and community resilience.
His collaborative approach has fostered meaningful partnerships with local communities and international organizations, empowering individuals through education and hands-on involvement. An avid PADI Diving Instructor, Juan combines his passion for the ocean with his commitment to sustainability, inspiring collective stewardship of natural resources. Beyond his environmental initiatives, he enjoys exploring nature, sharing his knowledge through public speaking engagements, and mentoring emerging sustainability leaders. Juan’s dedication and collaborative spirit make him a valuable leader in the global movement toward ecological resilience.
Nico Ghersinich
Nico Ghersinich is a distinguished figure in the diving industry, boasting over 30 years of experience as a technical diving instructor, underwater cameraman, and diving officer. His extensive career includes leading dive expeditions in renowned locations such as Cocos Island and Malpelo. As the co-founder of SeaMasters,
Nico has been instrumental in supporting SuperYacht explorations throughout the Eastern Tropical Pacific, leveraging his profound knowledge of marine wildlife and coastal ecosystems. His collaborations with esteemed organizations like BBC NHU, National Geographic, and Discovery Channel highlight his dedication to marine conservation and natural history documentation. Beyond his professional achievements, Nico is a proud father to Omar, Darien, and Leonardo, embodying a commitment to preserving the ocean’s wonders for future generations.
María José Mora Ruiz
María José Mora Ruiz is an entrepreneur and hospitality professional whose international experience has shaped a strong passion for sustainability, community development, and purposeful tourism. A graduate of the prestigious Glion Institute of Higher Education in Switzerland,
she has worked across diverse hospitality environments in Europe, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Costa Rica, developing a deep understanding of how meaningful experiences can positively influence both people and places.
Through her work with ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, María José contributed as Project Coordinator for the Sin Límites Program, helping empower individuals with life-changing injuries through ocean-based experiences focused on confidence, healing, and inclusion. She also supported the development of Costa Rica’s National Instructor programs by serving as a translator and facilitator during training initiatives.
Today, María José applies her entrepreneurial mindset and hospitality background to help guide community-based projects that connect conservation with social entrepreneurship. She strongly believes that healthy ecosystems are not a trade-off to successful businesses, but rather the foundation upon which sustainable tourism and hospitality depend. Her work focuses on creating opportunities where conservation, community empowerment, and long-term economic sustainability can grow together.
Christophe Chellapermal
Christophe Chellapermal is an underwater filmmaker, photographer, and conservation storyteller based in the United Arab Emirates, with more than 30 years of experience exploring and documenting marine environments across the region. As a Board Member of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach,
Christophe uses the power of visual storytelling to highlight the human connection to the ocean and inspire meaningful conservation action. (Chellapermal Photography)
A passionate ocean advocate, Christophe collaborates closely with scientists, universities, and conservation organizations on projects focused on marine biodiversity, habitat restoration, marine mammals, soft coral ecosystems, and emerging environmental challenges in the Persian Gulf. His current work includes partnerships with NYU Abu Dhabi, Emirates Nature WWF, and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, combining science, storytelling, and conservation outreach to promote greater awareness and protection of marine ecosystems.
Through his photography, filmmaking, and conservation journalism, Christophe continues to inspire communities to better understand, appreciate, and protect the ocean. His warmth, creativity, and collaborative spirit make him a valued contributor to ConnectOcean’s mission of strengthening marine conservation through education, outreach, and community engagement.
Carolina Murillo
Carolina Murillo holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management and is co-owner of No Limit Adventures, a company dedicated to creating authentic and responsible travel experiences throughout Costa Rica. With over 20 years of experience in hospitality and sustainable tourism,
she brings strong expertise in leadership, organization, finance, and operational excellence.
As a Board Member of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, Carolina is passionate about helping tourism become a meaningful bridge between conservation and community well-being. She believes that thoughtfully designed travel experiences can inspire environmental awareness, support ecosystem restoration, and generate long-term value for local communities while protecting Costa Rica’s natural heritage. Her strategic mindset, commitment to sustainability, and focus on continuous improvement make her an important contributor to ConnectOcean’s mission and growth.
Erick Wiessel Soto
As a Board Member of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, Erick brings a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, environmental education, and community engagement. His vision is to use tourism as a platform to inspire deeper respect for ecosystems while strengthening local well-being and conservation awareness. Through his work, Erick continues to promote meaningful connections between people and nature, helping advance ConnectOcean’s mission of protecting Costa Rica’s extraordinary natural heritage for future generations.
Cristiano Paoli
Cristiano is a naval engineer, ocean explorer, and adventurer whose career is deeply intertwined with the sea. His extensive experience ranges from serving as captain and engineer on commercial fishing vessels to leading diving expeditions in renowned locations such as Cocos Island, Malpelo, Coiba, and Panama. As a technical diving instructor and underwater cameraman,
Cristiano has significantly contributed to complex underwater documentary projects, ensuring safety and operational excellence. His commitment to marine conservation is evident through his active participation in shark tagging initiatives, supporting vital scientific research. Notably, Cristiano redesigned and refurbished ConnectOcean Conservation’s flagship vessel, the 43′ Explorer “Aguila,” facilitating numerous offshore filming projects and scientific expeditions. Beyond his professional endeavors, he is an avid motorcyclist, spear fisherman, and freediver, boasting a personal static breath-hold record of 6 minutes and 32 seconds. Cristiano’s diverse skills and unwavering passion for ocean conservation make him an invaluable member of the ConnectOcean Conservation board.
Dr Jemma Hillb (Purandane)
Dr. Jemma Hill (Purandare) is a distinguished environmental scientist with over 16 years of expertise in marine and coastal habitat ecology, impact assessment, monitoring, and restoration. Her work focuses on assessing tidal ecosystems, particularly coral reefs and mangroves, and restoring marine environments.
Jemma has collaborated within international frameworks such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Ramsar Convention to enhance global conservation efforts.
As Scientific Advisor at ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, Jemma ensures that the organization’s initiatives are scientifically robust and legally sound. Her dedication to integrating science and policy strengthens ConnectOcean’s conservation strategies and inspires communities to actively engage in protecting marine ecosystems.
Jemma’s commitment to environmental education and capacity building aligns seamlessly with ConnectOcean’s goals, making her an indispensable member of the team. Through her leadership and collaborative spirit, she continues to advance marine conservation efforts, embodying the core values of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach.
Joi Ito
Joichi “Joi” Ito is a distinguished entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and scholar, renowned for his focus on the ethics and governance of technology. He currently serves as President of the Chiba Institute of Technology and is the Chief Architect, Co-Founder, and Board Member of Digital Garage. His extensive career includes leadership roles at esteemed institutions such as the MIT Media Lab and Creative Commons.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Joi is a passionate marine conservationist and an accomplished diver. As a PADI Staff Instructor with over 28 instructor-level certifications, he brings a unique perspective to ocean preservation efforts. His deep appreciation for marine ecosystems enhances his contributions as an Advisory Board member of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, aligning with the organization’s mission to protect and celebrate our planet’s oceans.
Ali bin Talith
Ali Khalifa Bin Thalith is a celebrated underwater photographer, documentary filmmaker, and passionate advocate for ocean conservation from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Renowned internationally for his captivating visual storytelling, Ali holds diplomas in Photojournalism and Documentary Photography, as well as French language and literature from prestigious institutions,
including the London Academy and the University of Montpellier. In 2010, Ali’s creative excellence was recognized with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award, reflecting his early dedication and impactful approach to storytelling. His leadership within the global photography community was further acknowledged in 2014 when he became the first Emirati and Arab photographer to be honored by the International Photographic Council (IPC) Professional Photographer Leadership Award during a prestigious event at the United Nations in New York.
Ali’s deeply personal connection to the ocean culminated in his acclaimed debut book, “Truly, Madly, Deeply,” published in 2016. Celebrating two decades of exceptional underwater photography, the book passionately highlights the beauty, mystery, and fragility of marine life. Praised by international figures in photography such as Steve McCurry, Reza, and Alex Mustard, Ali’s work inspires global awareness and meaningful action for ocean preservation.
As an Advisory Board member of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, Ali generously contributes his vision, experience, and powerful imagery to advance the organization’s mission. His warm personality, commitment to marine conservation, and extraordinary talent for visual storytelling profoundly influence ConnectOcean’s ability to engage and inspire communities worldwide to protect our oceans.
Marina Mansilla Hermann
Marina Mansilla Hermann is a sustainability leader, environmental advocate, and social entrepreneur dedicated to empowering people to drive meaningful environmental and social change. As Chief of Staff to Christiana Figueres, former Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC and founding partner of Global Optimism,
Marina works at the forefront of global climate and nature leadership initiatives, helping support transformative action on some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. (Global Optimism)
With a background spanning environmental science, international development, youth empowerment, and climate leadership, Marina has spent more than a decade working with organizations such as Ashoka, Peace Child International, UN Environment, and her own foundation, Fundación TierraVida, supporting young leaders and changemakers around the world. (Global Good x Amani)
As an Advisory Board Member of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, Marina brings a unique blend of global environmental leadership, systems thinking, and community-centered action. Her passion for connecting people with purpose, nature, and each other aligns closely with ConnectOcean’s mission to build resilient communities, strengthen conservation efforts, and inspire a new generation of environmental stewards. Her thoughtful leadership, optimism, and commitment to collective action make her a valued member of the ConnectOcean family.
Edgar Mora Altamirano
Edgar Mora Altamirano is a Costa Rican public policy strategist, urban innovator, and educator recognized for his visionary leadership in sustainable development and community transformation. A Harvard University graduate with a Master’s in Public Administration,
Edgar has served as Mayor of Curridabat and Costa Rica’s Minister of Education, leading groundbreaking initiatives in regenerative urban planning, education reform, and citizen-centered governance. (Ford Foundation)
As an Advisory Board Member of ConnectOcean Conservation and Outreach, Edgar brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, environmental vision, and community engagement expertise. His work promoting biodiversity, regenerative cities, and inclusive public policy aligns closely with ConnectOcean’s mission to strengthen conservation through education, collaboration, and community-driven action. Edgar’s innovative mindset and passion for creating meaningful social and environmental impact make him a valued advisor to the organization.