ELSIE GABRIEL / INDIA

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Elsie Gabriel is a dedicated advocate for ocean literacy and a certified HSA diver who has made significant contributions to global ocean conservation. She played a key role in shaping the Venice Declaration on the UNESCO Ocean Literacy, advancing the integration of ocean education into environmental policy. Recognized for her innovative approach, she empowers divers as climate action ambassadors, training them to use their underwater experiences to advocate for ocean protection.

As part of her mission, Elsie has launched HSA-certified diver programs in Sri Lanka, Maldives, Havelock, and the Lakshadweep Islands, promoting inclusivity by engaging indigenous and disabled divers in ocean advocacy. Her work extends to inspiring youth to protect and preserve marine ecosystems, cultivating a new generation of ocean stewards. By equipping divers to collect critical data and combat marine pollution, she fosters their active participation in global climate solutions. Through her efforts, Elsie bridges the gap between local communities and international conservation initiatives, creating a global movement that encourages everyone to be an ocean steward.