Carmen Koepfer

Hello! I’m Carmen Koepfer, a passionate marine biologist specializing in shark conservation, an educator, and a dedicated advocate for ocean preservation. Growing up in Mexico, I always dreamed of diving with sharks, driven by a desire to play a role in saving our oceans. This dream became a reality when I joined Pelagios Kakunja in 2013, where I contributed to various research projects, particularly in the Sea of Cortez.

In 2015, I pursued my Master’s degree at the Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste (CIBNOR), focusing on the effects of scuba diving on bull sharks and their economic value in Cabo Pulmo National Park. My academic journey was not just a personal fulfillment but also a stepping stone in my career as a conservationist.

After earning my degree, I continued with Pelagios Kakunjá, aiding in the creation of educational programs and documentaries like “The Blue Quest" and “Sharks of the Sea of Cortez: A Lost Treasure?" Seeking broader horizons, I moved to California in 2019. Here, I’ve become part of the Ocean Institute as an educator, advocating for shark protection with Shark Stewards, and developing my own initiative to empower women.

Recently, I have expanded my efforts as a Socioeconomic Study Analyst, contributing to a collaborative project between Pelagios Kakunja and Shark Stewards to create a marine corridor in the Gulf of California. This ambitious Marine Corridor Conservation Initiative involves leading the design and implementation of tools, seeking the protection and conservation of our sharks through the empowerment of local communities.

My mission is to use science as a transformative tool, inspiring others to overcome their limiting fears and dive into their passion for conservation. Through my work, I aim to foster a new generation of ocean advocates, united in the effort to protect our majestic marine life and preserve the ecosystems we all cherish.