Lesley Rochat, the Shark Warrior!
Lesley Rochat was once a swimwear model, actress and TV presenter – that was before she discovered the magical underwater realm and become a freelance environmental writer and underwater photographer. Given her growing concern for the marine environment she decided to dedicate her life to marine and shark conservation and in 2003 she founded AfriOceans Conservation Alliance, a non-profit organization based in Cape Town, South Africa. AfriOceans initially achieved major success through the M-Sea Programme, a unique shark conservation programme, designed by Lesley. The Programme involved the satellite tagging and releasing of captive sharks, as well as a high profile education and awareness programme, which reached millions worldwide.
This award winning documentary filmmaker is also the CEO of Blue Pulse Pictures, a production company owned by Lesley. She has produced and directed numerous documentaries, including her multi-award winning documentary, Sharks in Deep Trouble, and the Panda Award winning Save Our Sharks awareness video.
An avid diver and a PADI Dive Master with over 1000 dives, she is a well-published travel and environmental journalist and award-winning photographer. She is the author of several children's books and educational books, and the creative director of numerous educational and awareness initiatives such as the unique AfriOceans Warriors Environmental Programme that empowers the youth to become ambassadors for the oceans. Her other major success is her work as a campaigner; in particular her Panda Award winning Rethink the shark campaign.
As an acitivst fondly name the Shark Warrior, she has earned a respected reputation for her efforts in lobbying for the conservation and protection of our sharks. Lesley is considered an important role player in marine and shark conservation and her efforts are recognized worldwide resulting in an international following and many invites to public speak. She has been inducted into the Women Divers Hall of Fame, and the International League of Conservation Photographers.
A Shark’s Legacy
