CeMEES

Vision

Enriching the educational experience and lives through the ocean.

Mission

To connect Namibian schools, learners and public to their ocean heritage through hands-on marine environmental educational programs to promote ocean stewardship, conservation, sustainability and science education.

About CeMEES

CEMEES is driven by a group of passionate former teachers, marine biologists and associates. We have spent many years working/ studying the ocean life. We have experienced the wonders and awe-inspiring nature of our oceans. We have seen/touched deep sea animals from deep down below the ocean. The ocean is such an important resource for the development of our country and the health of our planet.

Our Team

Johny Gamatham

Johny Gamatham has worked for the National Marine Information and Research Centre (NatMIRC) of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources for over 30 years. He has extensive experience in marine biodiversity, taxonomy and ecology of demersal community. He has taught a Fisheries Observers and Inspectors course (FIOC) at the Namibia Maritime and Fisheries Institute (NAMFI) for many years and has attended various training courses, including Ichthyology course at Rhodes University and Environmental Education Certificate course at Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). Having extensive sea-going experience, he has participated in various international research programs and co-authored a number of publications. A passionate teacher, he has mentored many students and colleagues on species identification and laboratory/ technical skills. Having retired recently, he co-founded the Centre for Marine Environmental Education and Sustainability (CeMEES) and is the Technical and Operations Director. Through CeMEES he shares his experience and love for the ocean with the youth and advocates for ocean sustainability for future generations.

teacher

Associate Educators

teacher

Victoria Erasmus

Victoria obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental, Molecular and Physiological Biology, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education, and a Masters of Science in Marine Biology, all from the University of Namibia. She is currently a part-time PhD student at Rhodes University, South Africa. She is a former teacher, marine researcher and now works as an Operations Manager at Fisheries Observer Agency. She has over nine years of experience in collection and analysis of biological data, feeding ecology, reproduction strategy, age and growth, parasite infestation and heavy metal contaminants on demersal fish species. During her spare times she writes children's books.

teacher

Ester Nangolo

Ester obtained a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences from the University of Namibia. She is currently employed as a Senior Fisheries Biologist at the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, heading the Monk Fish research program for the past eight years. With extensive sea-going experience, she has been involved in a number of international research projects. An advocate for education and women in the maritime sector, and uses her free time to raise awareness on issues affecting the ocean. With a flair for the arts, Ester is a certified and avid photographer and sees the world differently through the lens.

teacher

Lessyn N Kalwenya

Lessyn graduated from the University of Namibia with a Bachelor of Science Honors Degree in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences. She is a Fisheries Research Technician with over five years experience in collecting fisheries related data from fisheries research surveys and commercial sampling for fish stock assessment purposes. She spent a few years working at primary school level and in the fishing industry. Her ultimate vision is to make a societal difference by transforming livelihoods in Namibia through education, advocacy and awareness raising of the ocean and its benefits, as well as providing youth and communities with the necessary tools through training for a just and sustainable society.

Richard Horaeb

Richard graduated from the University of Namibia with a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (cum laude). He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Education from the same University. He also obtained a Master of Science in Aquatic Ecology from Universität Bremen in Germany. Richard taught sciences at a high school for three years. For the past nine years, he has been working as a Senior Fisheries Biologist for the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources focusing on plankton research and monitoring. With experience in classroom teaching and education, he has been instrumental in initiating and implementing education and outreach activities. He dreams to see ocean sciences implemented at school level to inspire many learners to love, enjoy and appreciate the ocean.

teacher