I hope to build a career in marine conservation, and this project is a unique and valuable opportunity to move from theoretical knowledge to fins-on experience, while connecting with leading marine scientists—especially since I have yet to go diving in the ocean. As mentioned in our video, I am currently writing my thesis on Marine Protected Areas, through the lens of convivial conservation. *Convivial* (literally meaning *living with*) conservation explores how we can realistically respond to current political and environmental challenges by promoting radical equity, structural transformation, and environmental justice.If selected, we would love to continue working with Coexist and help amplify its message. Both William and I volunteer at OY4C, which has shown us the positive impact social media can have on climate and conservation action. We would love nothing more than to spread awareness and share your project with OY4C’s community consisting of 75,000 followers across Instagram and Tiktok.
Creating this video has been a challenging, educational, and rewarding experience, made even more special by collaborating with my boyfriend William, who did an incredible job bringing it all together. As university students—balancing an architecture degree and a final year in ecology—we were determined to find the time to share our perspective on the ocean’s importance, even for those who live far from it. What isn’t shown in the video is William’s deep connection to the ocean; growing up in the New Forest in the UK, he spent much of his time swimming and surfing, and so he has a strong respect and appreciation for the sea.
I hope you enjoy our perspective on why we must *Coexist* with our oceans. In some ways, living in London, our connection to the ocean is now from afar, we both recognise and appreciate the incredible resource that now allow us to connect with and share passion for the ocean virtually, bringing so many people closer to it than ever before. We believe that however far away you are from the ocean, you can still coexist, love and protect it, even from a distance.
