Welcoming Reef Life Foundation's New United Nations SDG Youth Ambassador!

Jul 14, 20232 min read

Updated: Jul 17, 2023

Introducing Lucy Ward: A Catalyst for Coral Restoration and Youth Empowerment at Reef Life Foundation

Lucy in Scuba Diving Gear — Lucy Ready to Scuba Dive!

We are thrilled to welcome a new member to the Reef Life Foundation Team, Lucy Ward. As an ocean conservation advocate, explorer, surfer, skateboarder and scuba diver, Lucy brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and passion to our coral restoration projects and in her critical role as our United Nations Youth Ambassador.

Hailing from Exeter University with a degree in Marine Biology, Lucy's strong interest in reef science and ocean policy has been the driving force behind her career. Her concurrent work at our colleague organization, the Earth Law Center (ELC), focuses on Nature Governance, Ocean Rights, policy and sustainability, which synergizes with the restoration efforts at RLF. Lucy's targeted work at ELC to promote ‘the Voice, the Vote and the Way of Nature’ in corporate boardrooms and organizational decision making has led to, among other things, the creation of the Dandelion Fellowship. A co-development programme focused on training Nature Proxies to speak for Nature in human systems and incorporate the voice of Nature into strategic decision making.

Applications for the Dandelion Fellowship are now open, to express your interest in joining, follow this link: https://www.earthlawcenter.org/apply-for-the-dandelion-fellowship

Lucy Scuba diving on the reefs of Bocas del Toro in Panama.

explorations in Costa Rica and Guatemala — Exploring Guatemala

Youth Empowerment and Ocean Protection: Lucy's Mission at Reef Life Foundation

“Working within these two wonderful organizations allows me to devote all of my time to the oceans and uplifting, nurturing and promoting Nature's Voice. All whilst elevating and forwarding the sustainable solutions that the Reef Life Foundation provides. Watching the incredible success of Oceanite modules in action is a fantastic privilege. I greatly look forward to contributing to the ever growing portfolio of projects, and seeing even greater success and further benefits to the ocean.”

Joining the Reef Life Team, she also aims to represent and empower youth voices in developing innovative solutions for ocean protection and restoration. One of the key aspects of Lucy's personal mission is spreading the passion and power of youth in protecting our oceans. This aligns perfectly with the global conservation and climate movement, which recognizes the invaluable role of young voices in shaping a sustainable future. By working together, we can amplify the impact of our efforts and drive meaningful change.

Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14

Lucy scaling Volcan Acatenango in Guatemala

Lucy firmly believes in the importance of forwarding and spreading the word on sustainable solutions to the climate and biodiversity crisis. Both personally and professionally, she is committed to promoting the incredible work of restoring and protecting coral reefs. This dedication aligns seamlessly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources.

Lucy's enthusiasm, knowledge, and commitment make her an invaluable asset to our team. We are excited to see her passion and expertise drive forward our coral restoration initiatives and make a lasting impact on our oceans.

Please join us in giving Lucy a warm welcome! Together, we will champion coral restoration, amplify youth voices, and protect our precious marine ecosystems for generations to come.