Asha De Vos: Ocean Advocate

    Marine biologist, ocean conservationist, and keynote speaker Asha De Vos helps organizations understand sustainability, protect marine ecosystems, and drive impact through science, research, and community engagement.

    Asha De Vos - Image 05 (May 5, 2026)
    • Highlights:
      • Pioneer of Blue Whale research in the Indian Ocean
      • Founder of Oceanswell, Sri Lanka’s first marine conservation NGO
      • National Geographic Explorer and TED Senior Fellow
      • Speaker at the United Nations and World Economic Forum
    • Formats:

      Keynote Speaker, Marine Biologist, and Conservation Strategist

    • Audiences:

      Corporate leaders, policymakers, educators, and organizations focused on sustainability, environmental impact, and global conservation.

    • Outcomes:
      1. Understand the importance of ocean conservation and biodiversity
      2. Align organizational strategy with sustainability and environmental impact
      3. Inspire action through science-driven, purpose-led leadership
    Reading time: 3 min
    Reviews: (0 reviews)
    • Travels from: Colombo, Sri Lanka
    • **Fee range: On Request

    Keynote Topics

    Also in 2018, she was recognised as part of the BBC 100 Women list, and in 2020 she was awarded the Global Teacher Prize for the outstanding contributions she had made to conservation throughout her career.

     

    In her proficiency as a public speaker, Asha raises awareness of ocean conservation, the natural world and the beautiful things in it.

     

    As a TED Senior Fellow, she had enriched audiences with countless TED talks spreading her activism and passion for marine biology.

     

    Educated, passionate and personable Asha is the perfect speaker to bring understanding and awareness sustaining the environment.

    Talent Short Bio

    Asha De Vos is a globally recognized marine biologist, conservationist, and keynote speaker, best known for pioneering Blue Whale research in the Indian Ocean. Often referred to as a “whale champion,” she has dedicated her career to advancing scientific understanding of marine ecosystems while driving global awareness around ocean conservation.

    As the founder of Oceanswell, Sri Lanka’s first marine conservation research and education organization, Asha has created a groundbreaking model that combines rigorous scientific research with local community engagement. Her work has played a critical role in shaping conservation strategies in one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world.

    Asha’s academic background includes advanced degrees in marine and environmental biology from the University of St Andrews, the University of Oxford, and the University of Western Australia. Her research has been published in leading scientific journals and recognized by organizations such as National Geographic, where she is an Explorer, and TED, where she serves as a Senior Fellow.

    Asha De Vos is a distinguished marine biologist and conservationist, pioneering Blue Whale research in the Indian Ocean. Known globally as a “whale champion,” Asha has dedicated her career to unraveling the mysteries of the largest animal on Earth and advocating for the protection of marine ecosystems.

    She is the founder of Oceanswell, Sri Lanka’s first marine conservation research and education organization, and is a respected speaker who engages audiences worldwide with her insights on marine biology, conservation, and the importance of preserving our oceans. Her work, which uniquely combines rigorous research with local community engagement, has set a new benchmark in marine conservation.

    She holds degrees in marine and environmental biology from the University of St. Andrews, Oxford University, and the University of Western Australia, making her exceptionally qualified. Her findings have been instrumental in shaping conservation strategies in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.

    With over a decade of research experience and a background enriched by fieldwork and academic rigor, Asha De Vos is uniquely positioned as a leader in ocean conservation. Her groundbreaking research on Blue Whales has been published in prestigious scientific journals and recognized by institutions such as the National Geographic Society and TED, where she serves as a Senior TED Fellow. Asha’s expertise is not only in scientific research but also in creating awareness and mobilizing action for marine conservation globally.

    Her achievements are widely celebrated, from her TED talks viewed by millions to her frequent appearances in global media. Asha’s commitment and depth of knowledge solidify her as one of the foremost voices in marine conservation.

    Asha De Vos is not only a preeminent researcher but also an authoritative speaker in the field of marine conservation. She is often sought after to speak at international conferences, universities, and governmental forums due to her compelling research and advocacy for sustainable marine ecosystems. Asha has shared her insights on global stages, including the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, and Google Talks, where she underscores the urgency of ocean preservation and its significance for global biodiversity.

    Asha De Vos’s commitment to marine conservation is grounded in transparency, rigorous research, and ethical advocacy. Her leadership in the Blue Whale Project, an endeavor that combines fieldwork with cutting-edge scientific techniques, demonstrates her unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge in ocean science responsibly. By involving local communities in her conservation efforts, Asha has also built a model of inclusive research that fosters trust and collaboration.

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