Not only does it mark the beginning of summer and LGBTQ+ Pride Month, but June is also, among many other things, National Aquarium Month. Dedicated to honoring the role aquariums play in research and conservation, this month-long observation feels very appropriately timed as temperatures climb and many of us look to escape to local beaches to relax and unwind. Our oceans are more than just places of recreation, however; they contain between 500,000 and 10 million species of marine life, provide sources of food, regulate the climate, and generate the oxygen needed for our survival. With this in mind,this month we are highlighting dedicated preservationists, adventurers and scientists who can take budding conservationists on a deep dive into our seas.

Our speakers bureau prides itself on representing the best of the best in every conceivable field, and while we don’t have anyone on our roster who specializes in aquariums, we work with plenty of incredible folks who share the same goals as these institutions: education, preservation, and exploration.  

These top keynote speakers are oceanographers, educators and conservationists with centuries of in the field experience between them and a true passion for their mission that will enchant and motivate any audience.

Enric Sala is an ecologist, filmmaker, and National Geographic Explorer in Residence. A former university professor, he switched track and became a full-time conservationist to battle threats to ocean life. As the founder of the Pristine Seas project, he combines exploration and research to encourage international leaders to involve themselves in creating marine reserves and protecting nature.

Don Walsh is an explorer, submarine captain, and the author of over 200 ocean-related publications. A former member of the National Advisory Committees on Oceans and Atmospheres, he has served two presidential appointments, traveled to 112 countries, and taken part in 50+ polar expeditions. 

Journalist, oceanographer and sustainability keynote speaker Syliva Earle has earned the title “Her Deepness” for her work in ocean conservation. With over 6000 hours logged underwater, she advises global heads of state on marine protection legislation and works on the frontline addressing marine catastrophes, such as the Deep Horizon oil spill. 

Activist keynote speaker Guy Harvey is an artist, scientist and explorer with a deep love of the sea. A skilled underwater videographer and photographer, he is also the founder of the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, where his conservation efforts focus on many endangered species including billfish, Bluefin tuna, Nassau grouper, sea turtles and Tiger, Mako and Oceanic whitetip sharks .

Hanli Prinsloo is a freediver, ocean advocate and the founder of I AM WATER Ocean Conservation Trust, a South Africa based organization that weds her passions for social change and conservation. With a background as a journalist and documentary filmmaker, she has traveled the world extensively addressing issues of conflict and injustice. 

Hailed as the world’s foremost undersea explorer, archeologist, author and adventure keynote speaker Robert Ballard is an ocean exploration pioneer. The founder of the Ocean Exploration Trust, professor of Oceanography, and explorer-in-residence at National Geographic, among other things, he has taken part in over 140 deep-sea expeditions, and is an advocate for ocean preservation. 

Explorer, educator and keynote speaker Jean-Michel Cousteau has over 60 years of experience studying the ocean. As the founder of Ocean Futures Society, he travels the world partnering with changemakers in both grassroots organizations and the biggest levels of government to educate and promote conversation. The winner of numerous awards and the producer of more than 80 films, he is a true leader in the quest to protect the oceans.

Sustainability expert Michelle LaRue is a Lecturer of Polar Marine Ecology at the University of Canterbury, where she studies Antarctic penguins and seals. A passionate keynote speaker and conservationist, she has spent over 260 days in the field aiming to collect data that will inform future environmental efforts.

Science and innovation keynote speaker Chris Lowe is a Professor of Marine Biology at CSU specializing in sharks, rays and gamefishes. As well as contributing over 10 years of research onto the enigmatic white shark, he has appeared on multiple media channels discussing how climate change affects ocean life. 

Claire Nouvian is an environmentalist and sustainability speaker devoted to protecting the deep sea. A film-maker with a background in TV production and journalism, she has worked with fellow oceanographers on a boom and exhibition, both titled The Deep, that have together reached a global audience of over one billion people. 

Curious about our bountiful seas and looking to get involved in conservation efforts? Contact us at info@bigspeak.com to acquire an explorer and top motivational speaker for your organization.