Executive Director
Ester Nangolo holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences from the University of Namibia and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA), focusing on ocean literacy and its role in advancing a sustainable blue economy.
She has over 10 years of experience as a Senior Fisheries Biologist at the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, specialising in demersal fisheries.
Ester also serves as Regional Vice President of the Association of Women in Maritime in Eastern and Southern Africa (WOMESA), where she advocates for increased participation of women in the maritime industry.
She is committed to advancing marine science, education, and inclusive development within the ocean sector.
Research & Training Officer
Richard Hoareb holds a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the University of Namibia, as well as a Master of Science in Aquatic Ecology from Universität Bremen.
He has extensive experience as a Senior Fisheries Biologist in the Environmental Monitoring and Research division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Land Reform, with expertise in research, environmental monitoring, and science education.
Richard is currently a Researcher at the University of Namibia, where he continues to contribute to marine and aquatic research. He is passionate about ocean literacy and has led numerous outreach and educational initiatives.
Education & Outreach Officer
Johnny Gamatham has over 30 years of experience in marine science, with a strong background in marine biodiversity, taxonomy, and ecology. He previously worked at the National Marine Information and Research Centre under the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources.
He has completed specialised training in ichthyology at Rhodes University and environmental education at the Namibia University of Science and Technology. Johnny has contributed to international research programmes and scientific publications.
He is a lecturer at the International University of Management, where he continues to promote ocean education and sustainability.
Finance & Administration Officer
Lessyn Kalwenya holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences from the University of Namibia and a Master of Science in Fisheries and Aquatic Biodiversity from the University of Algarve.
She has experience in fisheries data collection, demersal surveys, and stock assessment research. Her work has also included studies on the ecology of Namibian Cape fur seals.
Lessyn is passionate about using marine science to support sustainable livelihoods and community development through education and awareness.
Communication & Partnership Officer
Kaino Nghiwete holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Environmental Management.
She has a background in fisheries research, with experience in demersal stock assessment surveys where she has collected and analysed biological data to support sustainable fisheries management in Namibia.
Her interests include marine ecology, ocean literacy, and emerging environmental challenges such as microplastic pollution. She is committed to advancing ocean education and promoting sustainable use of marine resources in Namibia.