Behind Every Successful Woman Is A Tribe Of Other Successful Women Who Have Her Back.
A crucial aspect contributing to the success of Coral Catch involves the professional network available to its alumnae. Research from Harvard shows that women with well-connected peer networks are more likely to secure executive positions with greater authority and higher pay. We’ve also seen firsthand that when women support each other, incredible things happen. By lifting each other up and embracing collaboration, we can truly change the world (and have a lot more fun along the way!).
We take great pride in the support system surrounding our Coral Catch Superwomen, which includes a network of successful women from all around the world. Our sisterhood consists of 34 influential women, each making significant contributions to conservation, marine science, entrepreneurship, and emotional well-being. They generously offer masterclasses, spend time with the candidates during their training, and showcase our impactful work to the word. Their mentorship ensures our Superwomen are well-equipped for their journey and encourages them to pay it forward to future generations.
Our partnerships with journalists and influencers increase visibility, fueling our advocacy efforts, and ensuring continued program success.
We Proudly Present To You Our Coral Catch Ambassadors (in completely random order)
Steve Backshall
Zoologist and Broadcaster
“Coral Catch is the perfect conservation success story, benefiting people and nature in equal measure.”
Kelly Latijnhouwers
Fouder @ REACT Foundation
“Empowering local communities is essential in making a lasting impact in ocean conservation, but empowering a team of local women is a dream, and Coral Catch is making that dream come true.”
Dr. Alison Sky Simmance Budden
Ocean Expert, Explorer, Storyteller & Co Founder Ocean Hope Club.
“The ocean connects us all, from the icy Arctic to the coral gardens of Indonesia. Coral Catch inspires me because it celebrates women as guardians of that connection, restoring reefs and hope with every dive. As a global ocean expert and explorer I have learnt that the ocean is not just what connects us, it sustains every breath, every species, and every future on this planet. We must continue to inspire and educate the next generation to love, explore, and protect our blue planet. Together, we are proving that when women rise, the ocean thrives.”
Dr. Fiona Ocean Simmance Armstrong
Ocean Expert, Explorer, Storyteller & Co Founder Ocean Hope Club.
“Like Jacques Cousteau once said, ‘People protect what they love.’ Coral Catch is the embodiment of that truth, empowering women to love, learn from, and protect the ocean in their own communities. As a global ocean expert and explorer saving ocean life from the Arctic to the tropical reefs I have learnt that the ocean is not just what connects us, it sustains every breath, every species, and every future on this planet. I’m honored to support this wave of change, where passion meets purpose beneath the surface of our shared ocean.”
Vittoria Zipoli Caiani
Executive Coach & Leadership Evolution Facilitator
“What inspires me about the ocean is its paradox: extraordinary power paired with profound fragility. It can heal and regenerate quickly when we act with respect, and it can be irreversibly damaged when we don’t. Supporting Coral Catch means choosing responsibility over neglect, and regeneration over loss.”
Andrew Taylor
Director, Blue Corner Dive & Conservation
“What I value about Coral Catch is the commitment to training and empowering people who are motivated to lead restoration in their own communities. Scaling restoration comes from building local expertise and giving people the support to apply it. Through years of collaboration between Blue Corner and Coral Catch, I’ve seen restoration move beyond transplanting corals to a lasting community movement.”
David Suggett
Director @ KAUST Coral Restoration Initiative
“Coral Catch continues to leave me in awe, setting the global pulse of change needed in empowering women and especially those that have long been disadvantaged. Seeing how the superwomen “change makers” can break the traditional mold of marine conservation champions truly gives me confidence for a brighter future for this planet. It is an absolute privilege to support and advocate for Coral Catch, a model that must soak into every fabric of society.”
Jakub Choluba
Documentary filmmaker, cinematographer and explorer
“Helping Coral Catch to amplify their mission was one of those life changing experience. We came in as strangers wanting to make a film and left as a family.”
Dr. Alessandra Satta
Steward of Feminine Leadership Evolution & Regenerative Systems
“Coral Catch represents and embodies a beautiful vision of the future, one where women are empowered to lead meaningful change within their communities while protecting the fragile ecosystems that sustain life. I deeply admire their mission to nurture Ocean Leaders through education, connection, and opportunity. Their work resonates profoundly with my own path around feminine intelligence, embodied wisdom, and the creation of more conscious, life-expanding futures.”
Leon Haines
Founder of Blue Marlin Conservation
Co-founder of Reefy
“At Reefy, we work to scale ecosystem restoration by integrating nature into coastal infrastructure. By embedding restoration into infrastructure from the start, we can create impact at a scale that traditional conservation projects often struggle to reach. That is why I feel so strongly connected to Coral Catch. Coral Catch is scaling restoration in a different and equally powerful way: through people. By empowering Indonesian women to become coral restoration leaders, Coral Catch is building a growing network of individuals who can create their own impact.
As a Coral Catch Ambassador, I hope to contribute my knowledge of reef restoration in the Gili Islands and professional network, as well as help create restoration projects that are designed to last into the future. For me, that means considering local conditions, coral resilience, future environmental change, and the communities that will continue protecting these reefs.
I am proud to support Coral Catch’s mission to grow a new generation of reef managers who can scale restoration across Indonesia and beyond.”
Anne Park
CEO of Sustainable Ocean Alliance
Principal of Seabird Ventures
“Coral reefs are among our planet’s greatest treasures. They sustain marine life, protect coastal communities, and remind us that the health of our ocean is inseparable from the future of humanity. Yet they are disappearing at an alarming rate. I became a Coral Catch Ambassador because I believe that protecting coral reefs is not only about restoring ecosystems, it is about investing in the next generation of young women who will lead this work for decades to come.
Throughout my career, I have seen the incredible power of young leaders when they are given the opportunity, mentorship, and confidence to thrive. Young women bring bold ideas, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to solving the world’s toughest challenges. By supporting and empowering them today, we are building a global community of leaders who will protect one of Earth’s most extraordinary ecosystems for generations to come.
There is no greater investment we can make than in the people who will inherit our ocean. Their leadership will help determine the future of coral reefs, and the future of our planet.”
Luke McMillan
Founder and Editor, Ocean Rising
“I’ve been fascinated by Coral Catch since I first wrote about the work they’re doing. I called it a prototype for the future of conservation, and I still think that’s right. Most reef restoration money goes to expensive tech in wealthy countries. Rose and her team train Indonesian women to rebuild reefs by hand, in the Coral Triangle, where 76% of the world’s coral species live. They’ll still be doing this work in twenty years. That matters.”
Dr. Siti Nurtahirah Jaafar
Senior Lecturer @ Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Terengannu University Malaysia
“Everything that you put in this project is beyond my pride as a woman. I am very honored to be part of it and I’m confident your effort will pay off.”
Prof. Dr. Marie Fujitani
Working Group Leader ‘Deliberation, Valuation & Sustainability @ Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) & University of Bremen
“The Coral Catch program is an inspiration as it seamlessly integrates the social, cultural, economic, and environmental bottom lines while pulling us forward with an innovative, dynamic, and positive vision for the future. This is the kind of program we need more of! I’m blown away by the team and the CC Superwomen, and I feel honored to contribute in any way I can.”
Jessica Levy
Director of Restoration Strategy @ Coral Restoration Foundation
“I think it’s awesome that you created a capacity-building program for Indonesian women and I’m looking forward to share my experience with you all.”
Dr. Emma Camp
Dr. Emma Camp – Team Leader of the Future Reefs team @ the University of Technology Sydney
“Anyone can change anything. My mantra is “I will and I can” and I am determined to act and motivate others to act to ensure a healthier future for our oceans.”
Asst. Prof. Dr. Mathinee Yucharoen
Lecturer at Faculty of Environmental Management, Prince of Songkla University (Thailand)
“I am captivated by this Coral Catch Superwomen, such a fruitful program that I have experienced. Everyone has a strong desire to share to each other and learn at the same time. I feel a sense of gaining the right to freedom and education for girls how they have been contributing to the marine transformation.”
Capt. Nancy L. Caruso
Marine Biologist – Executive Director Get Inspired
“I am so excited to Support Coral Catch and their mission to empower women to nurture and care for our oceans.”
Christine Amour-Levar
Founder & CEO, HER Planet Earth; Co-Founder, Investors for Climate
“”Coral Catch and HER Planet Earth share a common mission: empowering women to lead the charge in protecting our planet. I’m honoured to support Coral Catch, a sisterhood creating ripples of change for our oceans and future generations.””
Putri Mulyani Nurdin
Divemaster, Entrepreneur & Ocean Lover
“”A woman can serve as a nurturing haven for her family. Women offer warmth, gentleness and love to her husband and her children. Similarly, coral reefs provide a vital habitat for millions of marine species. Both women and coral reefs play crucial roles in sustaining life on Earth. By providing love, life and nourishment, they contribute to a harmonious world, benefiting present and future generations.””
Sam Shu Qin
Instructor @ NUS College , National University of Singapore and Co-founder of Our Blue Spaces
“”I am deeply moved and encouraged by the Coral Catch initiative, which has created meaningful opportunities to empower women in Indonesia. Witnessing the courage, strength, and passion of these Superwomen has been truly inspiring, and I hope their efforts will continue to motivate others to play their part in protecting our oceans. I wholeheartedly support Coral Catch and eagerly look forward to celebrating the many great achievements these Superwomen are sure to accomplish!””
Camille Lasbleiz
Wildlife & Marine award-winning Conservationist, Content Creator
“I believe empowering local women in marine science and conservation is vital to protecting the world’s oceans and creating sustainable careers. Coral Catch’s amazing initiative to train and support women in Indonesia directly strengthens the future of their communities and coral ecosystems. As a conservationist, I admire Coral Catch’s dedication to opening doors for local women, giving them the knowledge and skills to lead the way in preserving their natural heritage. Women supporting women is essential in any field – we can learn from and grow with each other. Together, we can make marine conservation inclusive and impactful.
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CILUN DJAKIMAN
Marine Biologist affiliated with Maritime and Marine Science Center of Excellence, Pattimura University
“As a woman from Ambon, a small island in Maluku, I am excited to be part of the Coral Catch Superwoman program. This initiative is crucial in encouraging more young girls to engage in coral research, conservation, and development—fields where female representation is still lacking. I remember when I was the only female diver in my group, so it brings me immense joy to see more women participating in marine science, especially in studying coral reef ecosystems.”
Courtney Lorey
Pristine Seas Specialist at National Geographic Society
“I am honored to support the Coral Catch initiative and its mission to empower women on their journey to becoming ocean leaders and stewards. At a time where our oceans are facing a multitude of threats, equal representation of women in the field of marine conservation is of the utmost importance. I’m deeply inspired by the Superwomen that make up Coral Catch and I’m excited to work together to advocate for the future of our oceans. The world needs more programs like this!”
Nadia Fani
3D printing artificial reefs expert and Founder of Coastruction
“I am a passionate advocate for both marine conservation and female empowerment, I am deeply inspired by Coral Catch’s mission. Their work in nurturing coral reefs and empowering women is a beautiful testament to the power of community and the importance of sustainability. I am proud to support Coral Catch and honored to stand with these incredible women in our shared goal of preserving our oceans for future generations.”
Dr. Hannah Stewart
Director of Science and Restoration @ Coral Gardeners
“Empowering local women to protect their reefs is exactly in line with the mission of Coral Gardeners, and we are proud and inspired to support and work with Coral Catch!”
Tatyana Kira Barnes
Operations Fields Specialist @ Coral Gardeners
“I had the honor of witnessing the first cohort of Coral Catch Superwomen in action when I joined Gili Shark Conservation, and the impact was clear: empowering local women in science drives change. This program teaches you what no textbook can: how to build trust within the community and put women at the center of a expanding, on-the-ground network of change makers striving to safeguard their reefs. My key takeaway was a reinforced belief in the strength of representation and collective action to preserve our oceans.”
Dr. Tamaki Bieri
Conservation Strategy Consultant (formerly Chief Operating Officer at Coral Gardeners and Strategy Lead at The Nature Conservancy)
“I’m honored to support Coral Catch, a truly unique and inspiring initiative that equips women in Indonesia to take on a leading role in ocean conservation. Their involvement is crucial to securing a future for our oceans and the initiative gives me hope that together, we can drive change and make a lasting impact.”
Tali Vardi
Executive Director of Coral Restoration Consortium
“At first I was smitten by the focus on women, especially in a place where women haven’t always been given the same opportunities as men. Coral reef science has historically been dominated by caucasian men as well – at least in part because of the physical element and expense of scuba diving. So it is wonderful that Coral Catch is combatting this!”
Nesha Ichida
Program Director of Thrive Conservation
Co-Chair of Steering Committee and Indonesian Program Manager of ReShark’s StAR Project
“There are plenty of women pursuing marine programs for their undergraduate studies in Indonesia, but to come out of it and be a capable field practitioner ready for the work force, is still a rare occurrence. Coral Catch is a pivotal program / stepping stone for a lot of up and coming Indonesian female field researchers and conservationist. I have been thoroughly impressed with the alumni I get to personally work with after their Coral Catch program. They have not only built practical field skills during their time there, but also the confidence of owning it! I am stoked on the prospect of having 100 more badass female field conservationist/scientist in Indonesia, whom I would be excited to have join my team any day.”
Andrea Cayuela
Branding & Marketing Strategist at not so creative
“Coral Catch resonates deeply with my mission as an impact marketing strategist: to amplify projects that create tangible, lasting change. Its double-impact mission shows how women’s empowerment and environmental conservation are connected in practice. I’m inspired by how the CoralCatch Superwomen develop their skills and careers while caring for the coral reefs of the Gili Islands, a genuine example of people and planet growing together.”
Giulia Pellizzato
Marine Biologist | Ocean Educator | Sustainable Tourism & Conservation Consultant | Ocean Storyteller & Social Media Strategist
“What makes Coral Catch so powerful is the sisterhood it creates, a support system of women who share knowledge, skills, and passion for the ocean. This network goes far beyond the 9-week scholarship, building connections that last and ripple through communities. I am honoured to be part of this journey, bringing my experience and passion while being inspired by these incredible women’s stories, and together protecting the ocean that connects us all.”
Larissa Hale
Founder & CEO – Indigenous Women Rangers Network (IWRN)
“I am honoured to support Coral Catch and their vital efforts to empower local women in coral protection and restoration in Indonesia. This initiative is closely aligned with our work with IWRN and empowering Indigenous women rangers of the Great Barrier Reef with modern technology combined with Traditional Knowledge to take care of the reef. We know firsthand that conservation can be enhanced when women participate as they can be excellent record keepers and can access and mobilise different segments of the community. Coral Catch is an excellent model proving the inherent value of including women in coral conservation.”
Grace Park
Co-founder & President- DocDoc
“The Coral Catch Superwomen embody what’s possible when women, science, and nature unite with purpose. They’ve built the foundation. Together, we can amplify their impact.”
Dr. Elle Wibisono
Fishery scientist at Conservation International
“I wish we had programs like this when I was growing up in Indonesia. Wanting to be a marine scientist back then seemed like a weird life choice, but it shouldn’t be that way. Let’s make waves together”
Dinda Mazeda
Co-founder 21st Century Kartini & Environmental Specialist
“It is a privilege to be a Coral Catch Ambassadors as it allows me to contribute to fostering a more inclusive community. Currently, women represent only 33% in coral reef science (Ahmadia, G.N., et al. ,2021), and without intervention, it will take more than 20 years in achieving a more balanced representation. I am hopeful that the Coral Catch Superwomen program can accelerate this progress, one step at a time.”
Geertruidha Latumeten
Fisheries Research Consultant, Fish Illustrator, Founder @fishclopedia
“Supporting Coral Catch is about more than saving reefs; it’s about empowering women to become leaders in marine conservation. Proud to stand with these inspiring superwomen, creating waves of change for our oceans and our communities!”
Carissa Cabrera
Founder of FutureSwell and Storyteller
“Iʻm honored to be a small part of supporting women empowerment in the ocean conservation world. Weʻve seen the data, everyone benefits when moer women hold leadership positions. Iʻm thrilled to lend my support to Coral Catch, dedicated to restoring corals in the Coral Triangle, and reshaping representation within restoration.”
Annie Means
Multi-Media Maritime Journalist and Filmmaker
“When women lead, everyone benefits. Now more than ever, we need strong, compassionate leaders in the marine science industry. The Coral Catch program not only cultivates these essential leaders but also supports them long after they graduate. I am grateful to contribute to this initiative and connect with the inspiring Superwomen who emerge from the program.”
Danni Washington
TV Host & Ocean Advocate
“Coral Catch authentically champions the transformative power of community, knowing that true success is woven from the connections we nurture. Coral Catch Ambassadors and Superwomen exemplify this, proving that through shared wisdom and support, we empower each other to make waves of positive change.”
Caroline Pilz
Marketing Communications Manager
“Coral Catch holds a special place in my heart for their unique efforts empowering indonesian women to become managers of their own marine environments and preserving the beauty of our marine world.
Beyond conservation, their commitment stands out, as I’ve personally seen how they involve and uplift individuals, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility that is truly inspiring.”
Catarina Moj
Woman Empowerment Coach @ Unlimit Your Spirit
“This initiative represents the love for our planet + femininity and is fundamental for our next generations.
I am humble to be a part of it.”
Clara Proutheau
Ocean Conservationist – Scuba Diving Instructor
“Collective effort is key for the successful preservation of marine ecosystems. By supporting a network of strong women and the engagement of coastal communities, Coral Catch is making waves for a sustainable change towards ocean conservation and women empowerment. I am proud to be part of that movement alongside such influential and inspiring people willing to make a change.”
Dina Janidya
Ocean Guardian @Yayasan Trilogy Ocean Restoration
“Who would have thought that starting from being a tourist in Karimunjawa, made me fall in love with the world of Coral and Restoration. I believe the small changes we make to the ocean will have a big impact.
It was proven that I was able to get to know Coral Catch friends, the activities initiated by great women further proved that women can take a role in preserving marine ecosystems. Never get tired of the process.”
Ellie Hudson
Diving Instructor and Video Creator
“I am driven by the global call to empower women as stewards of our oceans. Together, we strive to protect and restore coral reefs worldwide, creating a brighter future for the heart of our planet’s waters.”
Emilia Fulgido
Marine Biologist and Regenerative Leader
“I’m standing for inclusion and equality in the conservation field. Especially empowering women is something I love to do ! I strongly believe that more consciousness and connection with nature are the key for human. “
Gail Tay
Director of Operations & Programmes @ The International Seakeepers Society
“I am proud to support the Coral Catch program. Congratulations to all in the team who dare to push forward in
pursuit of sustainability and self-empowerment!”
Kayleigh Grant
Professional mermaid | Founder KaimanaOceanSafari.com | Freediver | Videographer
“Coral reef ecosystems are a vital part of the healthy of our oceans & something we all rely on greatly whether we know it or not. These ecosystems play such an important role in helping the climate of our earth which is at a pivotal point. I love seeing inspiring women getting involved in the marine science field. I believe women have such deep compassion & empathy for the ocean & all of its inhabitants as well as strong determination to accomplish goals & speak up for what they believe in. I really enjoy & appreciate supporting & working alongside female ocean warriors. “
Kyra B. Wicaksono
Shark caretaker (ReShark Project) – Misool Foundation
“Coral Catch combines the feminine aspect of fieldwork and education, a blend of what to me is one of the main drivers in conservation practices. Not only giving a chance for the habitats to re-grow, but also empowering the local women and community. I really hope for initiatives like this to expand all across Indonesia.”
Megan Hassa
Underwater photographer | Ocean advocate | Free diver | Influencer
“I am thrilled to join the Coral Catch family in supporting local women become dedicated stewards for our oceans. As an underwater photographer and conservation photojournalist, I find immense joy in aligning my passion with a cause that educates, inspires, and empowers women. Supporting these women, I hope to amplify their impactful work, showcasing the vital role they play in preserving our marine ecosystem for future generations. “
Mélissa Bergeron
Lifestyle Happiness Researcher – Slow explorer
“The big ocean challenges won’t be met without women. It is truly inspiring to see this community of passionate women creating new perspectives for our future ! Let’s make sure they dream big, and that they will never doubt about their strength and power. “
Madeline St Claire
Founder @ Women In Ocean Science – Marine Biologist – Wildlife Filmmaker
“Empowering women from local communities is my passion. It’s amazing to see that the Coral Catch Superwomen get the opportunity to fulfill their dream and have a career in marine conservation.”
Ally Dragozet
Founder @ Sea Going Green – Marine biologist – Forbes 30 under 30 – Social Entrepreneur
“Honored to support this insightful project as it’s not only supporting marine and coral reef conservation but also knowledge and capacity building amongst a diverse community of females. Can’t wait to see what this
next generation of female entrepreneurs does.”
Sylvie De Burie
Photographer | Coral Lover | Sprakkar
“The past couple of years, there’s been a lot of heated debate on both gender equality and ocean conservation. How absolutely wonderful it was to discover a project like Coral Catch tackling both topics simultaneously.
In Iceland, the world’s leading country when it comes to closing the gender equality gap, they use the word sprakkar for extraordinary, outstanding, strong women. Let’s introduce the word in Bahasa Indonesia and start on Gili Air. I feel honored to contribute to the Coral Catch double mission and I can’t wait to meet all of you sprakkar in real life!”
Clarésta Taufan
TV Host – Actress – Influencer – Karate Black Belt Dan-II – NIKE Athlete INA
“Thank you for inspiring, empowering & creating more opportunities for Indonesian women to take care of our ocean. I am honored to be part of the Coral Catch Sisterhood. Together we are united in advocating for healthy oceans.”
Marta de Pedro
UX/UI Designer – PADI IDC Staff Instructor
“The ocean always has always been my inspiration in many ways. When I got asked to design the logo of Coral Catch, I didn’t have to think twice. It’s a project that will always be very close to my heart, and I’m sure the Coral Catch Superwomen will create a wave of change in Indonesia.
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Sonja Geier
Videographer @ Behind The Mask
“The ocean is my happy place and where other people exercise yoga or mediation, I dive beneath the surface to truly connect with myself. Thanks to the ocean I found my true passion: capturing its beauty through my lens and hoping to inspire many others. I’m happy that my coral reef pictures can help the Coral Catch Superwomen to raise awareness and educate others.”
Risty Rustarto
Journalist – Entrepeneur
“Thank you so much for creating this amazing opportunity for Indonesian women.”
Delphine Robbe
Founder @ Gili Eco Trust
“Sharing my Biorock experience and knowledge with the Coral Catch Superwomen
is an absolute pleasure. I’m proud to be part of this amazing initiative.”
Peta Day
Sustainability coordinator @ Seasalt Cornwall – Marine Biologist
“Coral Catch combines the two things that are close to my heart; female empowerment and marine conservation. Proud to be part of the Coral Catch Sisterhood!”
