Meet the Champions
These are the people turning vision into measurable impact, connecting local knowledge with global momentum to safeguard the blue heart of our planet for generations to come.
Randall Arauz
Cocos Island Hope Spot Champion
Hope Spot Champion Randall Arauz has dedicated his career to protecting marine species, using science to map critical migration routes between Cocos Island and the Galápagos. With Mission Blue support, his research and advocacy have helped drive major marine protections, while continuing to push for a fully connected and effectively protected ocean corridor.
Read the Story
Carlos Mallo Molina
Osa Peninsula Hope Spot Champion
Carlos Mallo Molina, Hope Spot Champion of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula and CEO of Innoceana, is leading efforts to protect one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. Inspired by Mission Blue, he now encourages others to take action, emphasizing that anyone who cares about the ocean can make a difference. Watch the video below to learn more.
Meet Carlos
Hayley Versace
Conflict Islands Hope Spot Champion
Hope Spot Champion Hayley Versace is leading community-driven conservation in Papua New Guinea’s Conflict Islands, combining coral restoration, scientific research, and local empowerment to protect one of the world’s most biodiverse reef systems. With Mission Blue support, her work has transformed former poachers into trained stewards, restoring ecosystems while creating sustainable livelihoods.
Read the StoryRili Dojhani
Nusa Penida Islands Marine Protected Area Hope Spot Champion
The Coral Triangle, often called the “Amazon of the Seas,” is a global center of marine biodiversity facing urgent conservation needs. Through Mission Blue support, Hope Spot Champion Rili Djohani is strengthening marine protected areas, engaging communities, and advancing inclusive, sustainable ocean stewardship across the region.
Meet Rili
Drive real ocean protection
Help identify & safeguard places that are critical to ocean health, biodiversity, and recovery.
Amplify your impact
Join a global network of ocean advocates, bringing international visibility to the place you are working to protect.
Access support & resources
Work with Mission Blue to connect with scientific expertise, communications support, partnerships, and opportunities that help advance conservation action.
“I used to view our project at the Cagarras Islands and Surrounding Waters as having very limited and localized results. But I now realize that we are part of a larger network, and together we amplify our impacts and inspire others worldwide.”
Aline Aguiar
Cagarras Islands Hope Spot Champion
“The local community is increasingly recognizing Golfo Dulce’s global importance and the impact of their actions, fostering a strong sense of pride.”
Andrés López
Golfo Dulce Hope Spot Champion
“We’re here committed to inspiring others and creating a legacy of stewardship for future generations.”
Carlos Mallo Molina
Biological Marine Corridor of Osa Hope Spot Champion
“Mission Blue is a catalyst that gives us all the opportunity to showcase our beloved Hope Spots to the world and accelerate their protection.”
Daniel Cáceres Bartra
Tropical Sea of Peru Hope Spot Champion
“It has been a great honor to be part of the Hope Spot Champion community. This recognition has brought international attention, enhanced our credibility, and strengthened our motivation.”
Ilena Zanella
Golfo Dulce Hope Spot Champion
“It has been a great opportunity to be part of the Mission Blue Hope Spot Champions network.”
Rili Dojhani
Nusa Penida Hope Spot Champion
