Black Sea Young Ambassador Programme

Country: Moldova

I'm a Master's student in Natural Sciences (Environmental Protection). I enjoy more than 6 years of solid experience in fields related to water resources. I am a hydrologist in the State Hydrometeorological Service.  I have been an active volunteer for more than 5 years, I am a member and Coordinator of the Climate Actions and Environmental Protection Department of the National Youth Council of Moldova. In 2021 I became Ambassador for Global Goals. 

I did my thesis about the alluvium runoff in transboundary rivers in the Republic of Moldova and the existing hydrological monitoring system. 

I am also the co-author of The Hydro-Morphological Assessment Report of the Republic of Moldova.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
The hydrographic network of the Republic of Moldova belongs to the Black Sea basin, the thing that brings us all together.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Tourism (Coastal and Cruise)

My Keywords
#Environment #Hydrology #WaterResources #Ecology 

Country: Türkiye

To teach people the beauty of science, I preferred science teaching as a bachelor's degree. After successfully graduating from this department in 2021, I realized that I could not stay away from the sea and that I had to work on marine sciences somehow. In the same year, I enrolled in the living marine resources master's degree program at Dokuz Eylul University, Institute of Marine Sciences and Technology.

The term "ocean literacy", which I was introduced to at that time, allowed me to combine my studies. I am currently working on a project related to ocean literacy. At the same time, I am working on hydrozoa taxonomy for my thesis.

My favourite thing to do is diving. Experiencing the underwater world and ecosystem by diving fascinates me more and more each time.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
The desire to achieve a sustainable Black Sea and preserve its unique beauty by integrating ocean-literate individuals into society connects me.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Marine fisheries, aquaculture and living resources

My Keywords
#Education #OceanLiteracy #MarineBiology #Benthic #Biodiversity

Country: Bulgaria

I am a young policy professional with a wide range of interests related to environmental matters, including energy and climate policy, law and behavioural science. 

During my BSc in Psychology, I was exposed to valuable research insights on human cooperation and environmental beliefs. I discovered the vast array of ways to achieve environmental behavioural change - both at a local and global level. This has been one of the reasons I pursued an MSc in International Public Policy and became interested in scrutinising the nodes between behavioural science and policy-making.

I have taken part in behavioural science research projects looking at sustainable behaviour, collective action and environmental policy, and have worked on projects investigating the role of media framing of climate change on environmental attitudes. Recently, I have engaged in local-led sustainable development solutions through a research project exploring the socio-economic, urban and legal barriers and enablers for development in the region. 

My interests encompass the fields of just transition, European legal and policy commitments for climate change adaptation and mitigation, renewable energy sources, and the role of youth in environmental policy. 

In my spare time, I am an avid classical ballet dancer and love to spend time in nature.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
The Black Sea is an important part of Bulgaria’s history, culture and development. It has valuable potential for nature conservation, sustainable tourism and renewable energy production – it is a matter of a collective effort to seize the opportunities for its development. I would like to be part of this collective effort. 

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Research, Sustainable tourism, Renewable Energy Sources (RES)

My Keywords
The Black Sea is an important part of Bulgaria’s history, culture and development. It has valuable potential for nature conservation, sustainable tourism and renewable energy production – it is a matter of a collective effort to seize the opportunities for its development. I would like to be part of this collective effort.

Country: Romania

I am a PhD geographer and territorial planner working as a lecturer at the Ovidius University of Constanța. My current research and educational work focus on the territorial sustainable development of coastal areas in Romania under a framework of participatory governance and community engagement, including the students as agents of change at the local level. My activities in Constanța are constantly developed within interdisciplinary teams, bringing together the professional community of geographers, biology, ecology, and urban planners professionals. Additionally, we involve schoolteachers and school students, while including also close collaborations with NGOs, in our efforts to be close to the local community of Constanta and its development needs. I am constantly involved in international research or educational projects (Horizon, Erasmus+), and my recent achievement about the Black Sea was to support the establishment of the Ovidius SDG Student Hub within our University, as part of the SDSN Youth Black Sea network, aiming to promote, to raise awareness and to take actions for the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
The Ovidius University of Constanta is located in the coastal area of the Black Sea in Romania and my professional research and educational interests as a geographer and territorial planner match the general aim of actively participating as a main regional and local actor for the sustainable community development of the Black Sea Basin.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Tourism (Coastal and Cruise)

My Keywords
#sustainableterritorialdevelopment, #coastaltourism, #participatorygovernance, #communityengagement, #environmentaleducation

Country: Georgia

I am Marika, I received my bachelor’s degree in biology/ecology and master's degree in hydrobiology from Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University. 

I work as an ichthyologist in the National Environment Agency of Georgia, Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Water Biodiversity. My main responsibility is the determination of growth and age indicators of the main Black Sea commercial fish, the study of fish otoliths in order to determine their age. I am also participating in the monitoring of stranded marine mammals along the Black Sea coast of Georgia. 

Along with scientific activity, sport plays an important role in my life. I was a member of the Georgian archery team, the champion of Georgia among youths. Therefore, it is very important for me to have a goal and achieve it. My main goal now is a healthy and sustainable future for the Black Sea. 

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
Since I grew up in a seaside town, I've always been fascinated by the sea and biology in general. The Black Sea is unique in many ways, which is why I chose a career in marine biology field.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Marine fisheries, aquaculture and living resources

My Keywords
#Research #MarineBiology #Ecology #Environmental #Sustainability

Country: Romania

Hello everyone! 

I work as an analysis engineer (physical/chemical) at Bosch in Cluj, Romania, while I am currently enrolled in the master program “Biophysics and Medical Physics" at the Babes-Bolyai University (BBU), Faculty of Physics, from Cluj-Napoca, Romania. 

I began my scientific research during my undergrad program at the Faculty of Physics, BBU, where I made my scientific debut with the goal of raising awareness about the importance of marine environment molecular resources and their sustainable valorisation. Through my research, I learned analytical techniques for molecular physics, which I then applied to determine the chemical content of biomaterials currently considered marine waste and their contribution to the blue bioeconomy. Working collaboratively, biogenic carbonates derived from certain invasive species (for example, Rapana venosa, which has spread invasively along the Black Sea coast) could be transformed into valuable compounds for the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and other industries, as well as new, innovative composites for a wide range of applications. My current research at BBU's Raman-AFM lab focuses on developing new added-value products with biomedical applications. By participating in the Black Sea Young Ambassadors Program, I hope to accelerate the progress of my research work through broad scientific and societal dissemination, by highlighting the struggles of our adjacent sea and raising awareness on valuable resources for bioeconomy and circular economy, and by addressing all stakeholders on blue growth.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
Being native to the city of Constanta, one of the biggest marine ports at the Black Sea, I’ve witnessed this ecosystem going through a real degradation process created by both natural and anthropic factors, which is the reason why I’m focusing my research on materials derived from the Black Sea.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Blue Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

My Keywords
#marinewastes, #biomedicine, #biomaterials, #engineering, #circulareconomy

Country: Romania

After I graduated from the Faculty of Physics, Chemistry, Electronics and Petroleum Technology, Ovidius University, Constanta, Romania. I took my master degree in Chemistry and Quality Management of Consumer Products and Environment, at Ovidius University, Constanța. I completed my PhD in Food Engineering, “Dunărea de Jos”, University of Galați, Doctoral School of Fundamental and Engineering Sciences. I have been working for more than 7 years at National Institute for Marine Research and Development “Grigore Antipa”, Constanța, Romania. My activity sector is related to marine pollution and chemical oceanography within Chemical Oceanography and Marine Pollution Department. I am also an environmental expert in the marine research sector and involved in different projects aiming and monitoring the quality of the Black Sea ecosystems (seawater, marine sediment and biota). 

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
What makes me connect to the Black Sea is my research related to marine ecosystem pollution, to understand deeply the contaminants effects on each component, which itself is a link and thus connected creates the marine chain.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Marine Research & Education

My Keywords 
#MarinePollution #MarineResearch #ChemicalOceanography

Country: Türkiye

I have known that I wanted to be involved in research about our planet from a very young age. Hiking the mountains, diving in the seas and observing the night skies filled with stars have always excited me. I earned a BSc degree in Physics and a MSc degree in Earth System Science. I am now continuing my PhD in the field of Oceanography at METU Institute of Marine Sciences. 

I am curious about the dynamics of oceans, their evolution in relation to the atmosphere and climate processes, and the effect it has on life. I would like to study more about the oceans in connection with the driving forces on our climate. Looking deeper into the impacts of the changing climate, understanding its history and modelling its future motivates me.

I have a great interest in the environmental problems on Earth and a passion for a sustainable world. This interest of mine has made me be a part of environmental campaigns such as encouraging recycling, composting at home and raising awareness of the serious climate issues. I have attended conferences and talks in the past years on pollution, clean energy and polar sciences.

I am also one of the Climate Ambassadors of Turkey, representing my university.  We are now preparing a long-term climate change strategy and action plan to enhance adaptation, and increase co-benefits for cities, sectors, and ecosystems.  We, as climate ambassadors, want to raise awareness of the climate crisis in society.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
I am interested in the Black Sea because of its unique deep-sea ecosystem that links our oceans with the Ocean Worlds in the Solar System. It is a region that should be studied well, and it must be protected from outside human forces. 

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Research and Education

My Keywords
#OceanAtmosphereSystem #ClimateScience #ClimateModelling #PlanetaryHabitability #Astrobiology

Country: Georgia

I am a PhD student at Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University. I hold a Master’s degree with honours in Human Geography. Currently, I am working at Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University. For the last three years, I have been researching tourism, migration and the social environment in Batumi, Ajara the Black Sea region. I have won a PhD research grant from the Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation (2021), and have received Tbilisi City Hall and Georgian State scholarships. I am a member of WEMov Women on the move - an international network founded by Cost. As a researcher, I focus on tourism, social relations and migration.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
My research and scientific interest connect me to the Black Sea.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Tourism (Coastal and Cruise)

My Keywords
#Migration, #Tourism, #EnvironmentalResearch, #AjaraRegion, #Batumi

Country: Moldova

Hey (with the intention to have an impact on the Black Sea with you) I’m on my path to becoming a seafarer, being a 3rd-year student at Maritime University and onboard the container vessels as a cadet. Half of my life will be in the oceans and seas; thus, half of my soul belongs to it. Another half is bound to volunteering activities which have the power to connect different people for a common cause, so my free time is mostly dedicated to this – the most recent one being volunteering in France via European Solidarity Corp.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
The desire to discover and protect the World of the Black Sea.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Maritime transport

My Keywords
#MaritimeIndustry #Environment #ClimateChange #Volunteering #Research 

Country: Bulgaria

A dreamer, a passionate optimist, permanently smiling, loving the sea. That is how I see myself. I believe that actions and positive examples make our environment a better place. 

I graduated in Applied Geography and specialized in Waste Management and Ecology at RWTH Aachen University, Germany. My Bachelor's and Master's thesis are based on the determination of marine litter and microplastic pollution in the Black Sea. Protection of the Black Sea is a personal cause that I have started in 2017 by creating the blog of LessPlastic Bulgaria. With time passing by the initiative became a profession. I am glad that since 2020 I have been part of the Marine Ecology Laboratory in Sozopol, at the Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. As a researcher, I analyse microplastic pollution and do marine litter monitoring in the Black Sea.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
I was born in a small town on the Black Sea coast. I've always been connected to the sea, but I only realized how important it is to me when I moved to a town far away. Today I am trying to be an inspiration. I think we should respect, protect and not take the Black Sea for granted.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Research & Education

My Keywords
#Microplastics #MarineLitter #EnvironmentalEducation #PlasticPollution

Country: Bulgaria

My name is Kalina Karadimova, from Bulgaria. I’m a final year student at University of Plymouth, England, specializing in BSc Marine Biology with Oceanography. Its extensive program has broadened my knowledge of the sea with topics such as ‘MPA management and policies, Ecotoxicology, Physical, Chemical and Biological Oceanography, coastal dynamics, and many more. Throughout my studies, I have gained skills in R studio, OpenChrom, boat sampling, taxonomy, and lab analysis.  

I am hoping that my dissatisfaction, which focuses on sterol and FAME analysis in fungi found in anoxic zones, brings interest and attention to the Black Sea, which is notoriously known for its unique anoxic zones. 

During my placement year where I undertook two placements, I gained an understanding of how NGOs operate, developed social media, research, education, and outreach (by presenting to kids and local villagers), and fundraising skills. I saw the ins and outs of an Oceanology institute and gained lab experience. 

I am already an Ambassador for Bulgaria for the Surfrider Foundation Europe organization and can’t wait to see what both these positions will teach me. Using all that I learned from both my university and the two internships I did, I am excited to join Black Sea Young Ambassadors Programme, help, and gain invaluable experience.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing the piano, horse riding with my father, exercising, baking and reading. Outside marine sector achievements include Head of House and a school prefect, two music prices, and a Best Production award for a play I produced and directed

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
I spent every summer in Kamen Bryag, Bulgaria since the age of 5. That ignited my deep passion for protecting our coastlines and seas. Its beauty is what made me pursue my studies and future career.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Marine fisheries, aquaculture and living resources

My Keywords
#oceanography, #marinebiology, #conservation, #education, #youthengagement

Country: Romania

I am working as a scientific researcher on zooplankton at National Institute for Marine Research and Development Grigore Antipa, Romania. I have an experience of seven years in this research field and this year I finished my PhD which deals with the importance of zooplankton in pelagic fish diet. I am knowledgeable in general biology, ecology, and the identification of zooplankton species. My research focuses on zooplankton diversity, sampling collection and analysis, preparation of environmental assessments using datasets, development of appropriate planktonic indicators, and reports writing for governmental bodies and companies. I am aware of the power of combining field, lab, and studies to deliver a mechanistic understanding of the ecosystem drivers. be made by organising meetings and workshops with students/citizens/researchers and practical trainings might also be an important tool for dissemination which can be used. Project activities will be presented during Scientific Conferences, Black Sea Day and other important events which will be organised in our country. Social media will also be used as a means of disseminating the results and increasing citizen awareness

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
Living near the Black Sea and being involved in analysing the Black Sea due to my job.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Research & Education

My Keywords
#environmentalprotection, #marinescience, #education, #ecology, #awarenessraising 

Country: Ukraine

Hey! My name is Anastasiya, and I am thrilled to be a part of the Young Ambassadors Program. As a Ukrainian national and a marine scientist, I am proud to have a chance to contribute to Black Sea conservation and development.

I am a PhD candidate at the Stockholm Resilience Centre (SRC) investigating marine ecosystem resilience in the Black Sea. As part of the BRIDGE-Black Sea project, I conduct holistic resilience assessments, focusing on human-made effects in data-poor cases. Before starting as a PhD candidate, I worked with marine ecosystems in the EU, establishing the nature and extent of human activities in marine protected areas (MPAs).

I am a graduate of the interdisciplinary Masters in Marine Biological Resources, specializing in global ocean changes, and I hold a BSc in Ecology and Conservation from Kyiv Mohyla Academy. During my Bachelor’s degree, I studied the Northern Black Sea ecosystem along with its characteristics and bio-economic challenges, with a research focus on developing green businesses in the region

My professional interests include science communication and outreach, conservation governance, and policy.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
Growing up next to the Black Sea and rivers feeding into its basin awoke a passion for aquatic wildlife and their associated ecosystems at an early age and was integral in my decision to pursue a career in ocean science.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Marine fisheries, aquaculture and living resources

My Keywords
#EcosystemResilience, #Conservation, #MarineGovernance, #MarineProtectedAreas

Country: Türkiye

I am a marine biologist, I earned my master's degree at the Marine Biology and Fisheries Department in the METU, Institute of Marine Sciences. I am recently a Ph. D. candidate and a Research Assistant at the Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Science and Management. My research focused on the optical properties of seawater, primary production, and ecosystem health. I am also a Marine Conservation Expert at the Turkish Marine Research Foundation, carrying out a national jellyfish monitoring program (YaYakarsa?). I worked on different citizen science projects. Being a marine biologist was a dream since my childhood, and I am very happy that I will be able to use my professionality for a better and healthier Black Sea.

What makes me connect to the Black Sea?
The survival skill inspires me.

The Related Blue Economy Sector
Marine fisheries, aquaculture and living resources

My Keywords
#environmentalprotection, #underwaterlight, #biodiversity, #sustainability, #oceanengagedcitizens