https://oceanexpert.org/expert/74831

Certificate TESOL NYU

Teaching/Education
Institutional Management

Pollution

Heloisa Schurmann: Environmental Activist, Educator, and Expedition Leader

• Expedition Leader: Co-leader of the Voice of the Oceans expedition (2021–present), a global movement to combat plastic pollution and address climate change, supported by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
• Author and Educator: Bestselling author of books like Pequeno Segredo and creator of the Education in Adventure program, which has reached over 2 million students globally.
• Environmental Advocate: Co-Founder of the Voice of the Oceans Institute for Environmental Education, promoting marine preservation and sustainable practices worldwide.
• Climate Advocate: Actively raises awareness about the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and the global environment, driving action through education and advocacy.
• Public Speaker: Frequent presenter at international conferences, TEDx events, G20 Social, and global forums on ocean conservation, sustainability, and the transition to a circular economy.
• Storyteller and Connector: Known for engaging and inspiring diverse audiences with stories from decades at sea, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental challenges.
• On-the-Ground Activism: Actively documents pollution hotspots and works with local communities during the expedition, combining traditional knowledge with innovative solutions. Also working to brin awareness about Climate change.
• Advocate for Gender Equity: Supports women and marginalized communities in environmental efforts, amplifying voices often underrepresented in conservation initiatives.
• Goals:
  • Drive global action to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable alternatives.
  • Empower the next generation through education and storytelling.
  • Build partnerships and engage with organizations to foster innovative environmental solutions.
  • Inspire communities and corporations to adopt circular economy practices for a cleaner, healthier planet.

South Atlantic Ocean
Indian Ocean
South Pacific Ocean

Here are some of my skills developed during 40 years of sailing and leading more than 60 different international crewmembers on  three circumnavigations around the world on a sailing vessel in more than 70 countries.

1. Expedition Leadership

   • Successfully leading complex global sailing expeditions, including Voice of the Oceans, with expertise in logistics, navigation, and team coordination across diverse cultural and environmental contexts.

2. Environmental Advocacy

   • Raising awareness and driving action on critical issues such as plastic pollution, climate change, and ocean preservation through public speaking, campaigns, and global initiatives.

3. Public Speaking and Communication

   • Engaging audiences as a speaker at international conferences, TEDx events, and forums, delivering compelling narratives to inspire action and connect with diverse groups.

4. Education and Youth Empowerment

   • Developing impactful programs like Education in Adventure, inspiring over 2 million students globally, and empowering younger generations with knowledge and tools to protect the environment.

5. Storytelling and Writing

   • Bestselling author with a unique ability to craft inspiring narratives that connect audiences to environmental causes and personal journeys.

6. Community Engagement

   • Building strong relationships with local communities worldwide, blending traditional knowledge with innovative solutions to address environmental and social challenges.

7. Climate Advocacy

   • Deep understanding of the intersection between ocean health and climate change, with the ability to communicate complex issues and promote actionable solutions.

8. Project Management

   • Successfully managing large-scale initiatives like Voice of the Oceans, ensuring alignment with stakeholders, sponsors, and international organizations such as UNEP.

9. Collaboration and Networking

   • Establishing and fostering partnerships with NGOs, corporations, governments, and international organizations to amplify conservation efforts.

10. Creative Problem Solving

    • Developing innovative solutions for sustainability challenges, such as promoting circular economy practices and advocating for alternatives to plastic.

11. Cultural Sensitivity and Adaptability

    • Navigating diverse cultural settings with respect and understanding, particularly in remote and vulnerable regions worldwide.

12. Mentorship and Gender Advocacy

    • Advocating for women’s equity and leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated fields, mentoring others to achieve their goals in environmental and leadership contexts.

13. Content Creation and Visual Storytelling

    • Creating engaging content for social media, articles, and campaigns, effectively communicating the importance of ocean and climate preservation.

14. Sustainable Business Practices

    • Promoting environmentally friendly practices, such as sustainable packaging and the transition to circular economy models, with a focus on measurable impacts.

15. Resilience and Perseverance

    • Overcoming challenges at sea and on land with unwavering determination, inspiring others to face their own obstacles with courage and creativity.

English
Portuguese

https://https://voiceoftheoceans.com/en/institute/

I am a 78 years old activist a mother, grandmother, a sailor for 40 years and an advocate for family and community values.
My career has been a testament to the power of leadership rooted in love, resilience, and purpose. As a mother, I undertook the extraordinary task of educating my four children, ages 6 to 15, while sailing around the world. This journey was not just about teaching academic skills—it was about instilling lifelong values like respect for nature, cultural understanding, and the importance of giving back. Together, we transformed the world into a living classroom, where every experience became a lesson in curiosity, compassion, and courage.

My leadership is based in my ability to balance my roles as a navigator, educator, and advocate, all while ensuring that my family’s strong foundation of love and shared purpose guided every step of our journey. My commitment to my family has always been at the heart of everything I do, and I am proud to see my children carrying forward the Schurmann family values as they pursue their own paths while continuing our mission to protect the oceans and inspire others.

Beyond my family, I am deeply committed to the broader community. Through initiatives like the Voice of the Oceans expedition, I work tirelessly to raise awareness about plastic pollution, climate change, and the need to protect our oceans for future generations. Through my storytelling, educational programs, and advocacy, I aim to inspire individuals around the world to take action and embrace sustainability.

My journey is not just about sailing the seas—it’s about navigating life with integrity, prioritizing my family, and using my platform to connect people with meaningful causes. I believe in the transformative power of education and the importance of leaving the world a better place, not just for my family but for all future generations.