Our team

Originally from Scotland, Clova has been in love with the ocean since she was a toddler and she has fond memories of windswept beaches, freezing water and exploring rock pools until she couldn’t feel her fingers or toes! This set her on a path to lifelong learning, starting with a degree in biology, with a particular interest in sharks.

She came to South Africa in 2005 to work with raggies, tigers and white sharks, in tourism and research. During this time, she became involved in the wildlife film industry, developing her science communication and project management skills before returning to university to focus on marine conservation. Her subsequent Master’s and PhD degrees not only developed her scientific knowledge, but also allowed her to reflect on the importance of including people in conservation dialogue and action.

Since becoming a mother, Clova is seeing her field through a different lens. She understands the value of nature connection, confidence and opportunities as early in life as possible. She has also come to realise how privilege affects connections with nature and access to the ocean. By building and leading a diverse team that is passionate about education and marine conservation, she is committed to addressing the inequalities in ocean access and supporting social justice.