Notes from the founder
Our belief that a better tomorrow starts with a better today is a true reflection of what it means to be a leader.
By creating a motivational atmosphere for youth to take action in protecting the environment, we aim to reduce the plastic debris in our oceans and ensure the safety of our ecosystem and marine life.
YOA hopes to encourage and motivate younger generations by providing the materials needed to start beach cleanups at their local beaches. We believe that every student should have an equal opportunity to combat environmental issues, regardless of social or socioeconomic status. Ocean conversation should be as expansive as the student’s passion and nothing else. By the youth, for the youth. It is our job to ensure that this planet is one that coming generations can thrive on.
Ocean pollution is a threat to our livelihoods. We can do better, and we must do better because the future demands it. I choose life, do you?
Stephanie Akinfolarin
Team
Stephanie Akinfolarin
CEO
Hello! I’m Stephanie and I am a sophomore at Cate School. I remember when I was 10 years old and first learned about ocean pollution. I was devastated to hear that so many animals die because of our attachment to plastic. I’ve realized that a collective effort to fight plastic pollution is the best way to conserve our oceans. YOA is a non-profit that provides anyone with the materials they need to start their own beach cleanup and fight against water pollution. The youth are able to be the change that they want to see in the world.
Daisy Gemberling
Secretary
Hi! I’m Daisy, a sophomore at Cate School and lover of all thing’s ocean. My enthusiasm for Youth Oceans Advocates stems from the desire to give youth the tools for independent environmental activism and success, regardless of socioeconomic status. Our services enable people everywhere to actualize the environmental changes they want to see; I’m so grateful to be a part of your advocacy journey!
Noor Harwell
CFO
Hey! I’m Noor, a junior at Cate School. I’ve always been fascinated by the ocean and all the wildlife it contains. I want the ocean to be a space people can explore and learn from for generations! My hope is that with Youth Ocean Advocates you and I can do our part to take care of the creatures with whom we share our home planet.
