THE
SEAS4LIFE TRIBE

THE RIGHT PEOPLE FOR THE JOB

With meticulous planning and a deep understanding of the Eastern African coast, the Seas4Life team execute unforgettable private-guided safaris that offer a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. Every member of the Seas4Life team is deeply connected to the region and its bountiful wonders, making their expertise unparalleled. As they work tirelessly to protect the rich biodiversity and support local communities, Seas4Life has established itself as a leader in both conservation and sustainable tourism in the Western Indian Ocean.

SEA SAFARI GUIDES

Julie Church

Sea Safari Guide—Kenya
She has well over 20 years experience in marine conservation working in Indonesia, Kenya, Tanzania and the wider Western Indian Ocean. Julie is dedicated to protecting the ocean and its inhabitants through leading marine conservation research.
Kristy Strahammer

Marine Guide Assistant–Kenya
I have always had a passion for adventure and exploration. Growing up in Austria, I had a strong connection to the mountains and spent much of my free time hiking and skiing. As I got older, I felt the need to broaden my horizons and expand my knowledge about nature and connected.
Kira Evans

Sea Safari Guide—Kenya
Born and raised in Kenya, growing up alongside some of the most beautiful terrestrial, and of course - marine life in the world, with a passion for all things WILD, which only continues to grow! She studied zoology at the University of Edinburgh that fueled and encourage her absolute interest, passion and love for wildlife and conservation.
Jigar Kothari

Ocean Travel Specialist—Tanzania
Meet Jigar Kothari, our Tanzania specialist. While on a gap year from Princeton University in 2014, Jigar developed a passion for scuba diving, spending the following eight years mastering the art as a dive instructor. In 2019, he uncovered the untouched underwater paradise of Mafia, which ignited his vision for extraordinary liveaboard adventures.
Francisco Paz

Sea Safari Guide & Dive Master—Red Sea
One of Seas4Life's greatest partners in the "sea field" is the wonderful Francisco, affectionately known as Cisco, who started his professional scuba diving career back in 2002 working as Dive Master in various diving centres and live-aboard vessels in Sinai, Egypt.
Nico Booyens

Shark Specialist—South Africa
Nico is a young aspiring shark biologist, head marine biologist and course instructor for the Shark Research Unit developing his master’s research on the sharks of Mossel Bay. Nico represents a leader in a new generation of marine scientists and conservationists and is actively involved with organisations such as Justice4Jaws and Youth4MPA’s. Nico also manages the unit’s special projects in Mossel Bay.

S4L FOUNDATION ADVISORS

Dr. Tim Collins

S4L Foundation Advisor
Marine Mammal Specialist
Tim has worked with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) since 2002. Based in Kenya, he has coordinated WCA marine mammal work across Africa for several years. This includes work in in Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, The Republic of Congo and Angola for over 10 years, focusing principally on Critically Endangered Atlantic humpback dolphins and humpback whales as well as working to identify and mitigate threats to cetaceans in general.
Melita Samoilys (PhD)

S4L Foundation Advisor
Ecological research on fisheries
Melita is a co-Director of CORDIO East Africa based in Kenya. Her work includes research on coral reefs and small-scale fisheries, management advice, and conservation action in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). She has also worked in the Pacific and Red Sea and contributed to fisheries policy development in Tanzania, Kenya, Sudan, Somalia, Australia, Fiji and Solomon Islands, and to regional marine policy development in the WIO.
Arthur Tuda

S4L Foundation Advisor
Marine and Coastal Management Specialist
Arthur is the Executive Secretary at WIOMSA (Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association) and is a Marine and Coastal Management Professional with a history of working in the marine protected areas (MPAs) in the Western Indian Ocean region. Skilled in MPA management, marine conservation planning, marine spatial planning and ocean governance.

JULIE CHURCH

The Ocean is my home. It’s where I am happiest and I love to share it with you not only because I love it, but also because the ocean influences us all in every breath we take, every drop of water we drink and every bite we consume. We are all inextricably linked to and dependent on the sea. So we need to protect it and the best way to start to do this is to fall in love with it, on a Seas4Life safari.
KIRA EVENS

I started diving when I was 12 and have barely been out of the water ever since! Whether snorkeling, scuba or fee diving - I just feel that I belong in the water. Whether diving or snorkeling, swimming or stand up paddle boarding, Julie & I will dig up the most wonderful ocean creatures to share with you.
KRISTY STRAHAMMER

Ever since I was a little guppy, I’ve been fascinated by the wonders of the sea. Whether it’s swimming alongside dolphins, snorkeling with turtles, diving in the deep blue sea or kitesurfing and sharing these experiences with people – this is what makes me feel alive and connected.

Seas4life Team

Julie Church

Founder & CEO
She has well over 20 years experience in marine conservation working in Indonesia, Kenya, Tanzania and the wider Western Indian Ocean. Julie is dedicated to protecting the ocean and its inhabitants through leading marine conservation research and provided technical advice to marine projects from the Red Sea to South Africa, and has extensively guided sea safaris around Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Reunion, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, and Tanzania.
Des Bowden

S4L Foundation Co-Founder & Trustee
Experienced Director with a demonstrated history of working in the marketing and advertising industry. Skilled in Digital Strategy, Advertising, Account Management, Start-ups, and Business Development. Strong professional graduated from Cranleigh school and Chelsea Art School. Now championing marine conservation on the Kenya Coast having been instrumental in starting the first Locally Managed Marine Area in the Western Indian Ocean. Founder of Kuruwitu Conservation and Welfare Association and Oceans Alive Trust.
Micha Dhanjal

Operations Manager
Micha Dhanjal, our charismatic operations manager at Seas4Life, is the driving force behind our seamless travel experiences. With an innate ability to juggle multiple demands, Micha ensures that every detail of our luxurious marine adventures is flawlessly executed. Her passion for ocean conservation and commitment to sustainable tourism inspire both our team and our guests. Micha’s exceptional organizational skills enables our travelers to engage deeply with Africa's vivid marine life while enjoying unparalleled service. Her leadership cultivates a culture of excellence that resonates throughout the company, making each journey not just a trip, but an unforgettable exploration of the ocean's wonders.
Becky Gent

Social Media Manager
Becky Gent, our social media marketing expert at Seas4Life, is an invaluable asset to the team, blending her passion for marine conservation with her extensive knowledge of digital marketing. With an eye for detail and a flair for compelling storytelling, Becky crafts engaging content that resonates with our audience and showcases the breathtaking experiences we offer. Her strategic approach to social media not only elevates brand awareness but also fosters a community that shares our love for the ocean. By highlighting our commitment to sustainability and the wonders of Africa's marine life, she inspires travelers to embark on unforgettable adventures while promoting the preservation of underwater ecosystems.
Kristy Strahammer

Hostess & Experience Coordinator
Kristy, our Watamu-based Hostess and Ocean Experience Coordinator, embodies the spirit of the ocean with her deep knowledge of marine life and unwavering passion for sustainable travel. Fluent in the local culture and ecology, she expertly curates unforgettable experiences that highlight the breathtaking beauty of Africa's coastal treasures. Her warm hospitality and meticulous attention to detail ensure that every guest feels cherished, while her commitment to marine conservation inspires others to appreciate and protect the delicate ecosystems surrounding us. With Kristy as a guide, each journey becomes an enriching narrative of adventure, wonder, and respect for the seas.
Renish Metto

Tech Support
Renish is the backbone of our Nairobi office at Seas4Life, expertly managing all aspects of tech support with precision and poise. With a keen understanding of the intricate systems that keep our operations running smoothly, she ensures that every team member has the tools they need to deliver exceptional service to our discerning clients. Her problem-solving skills and proactive approach not only enhance productivity but also elevate the overall experience for both staff and travelers alike. Renish's dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology with our sustainable mission exemplifies the innovative spirit that defines Seas4Life.
Mikhail Kuzi

Brand & Communications Manager
Mikhail Kuzi, our Brand & Communications Manager at Seas4Life, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for marine conservation to our dynamic team. With a background in luxury travel marketing and a deep appreciation for ocean ecosystems, Mikhail expertly crafts engaging narratives that highlight our unique offerings. His innovative strategies and commitment to sustainability resonate throughout all our communications, ensuring that our message of adventure and conservation reaches the discerning traveler. Under his stewardship, Seas4Life continues to build a strong brand presence, fostering a community that values both exploration and the preservation of the ocean's breathtaking wonders.
John Mandley

Education Partnerships Advisor
John Mandley, our Education Partnerships Advisor at Seas4Life, has extensive experience in marine education and conservation. He is passionate about protecting marine ecosystems and has worked with schools and nonprofits to create programs that involve communities in taking care of the ocean. John's skills help build partnerships that support our sustainability mission, preparing the next generation to advocate for the oceans. His focus on hands-on learning fits perfectly with Seas4Life's commitment to offering unique travel experiences that inspire and educate our travelers about Africa's stunning marine life.