Case Study
Leading Communications for UN Ocean Decade-Recognised Ocean Restoration Project
The Challenge & The Solution
Hope Zones Foundation, backed by Patagonia and the World Surf League, spent three years fundraising and developing an ambitious regenerative seaweed farming initiative in Nazaré, Portugal. As they prepared to launch their flagship project, a critical milestone for the organisation, they needed strategic communications leadership to build awareness, engage stakeholders, and bring together Europe's leading voices in ocean conservation.
I joined Hope Zones Foundation as their Communications Director in February 2025 to lead communication strategy during this pivotal transition, working across multiple initiatives, including a major ocean surf film festival and the launch of the 'Cultivating Hope' summit..
How I Supported Hope Zones Foundation
Communication Strategy & Leadership
Led overall communication strategy across all touchpoints, managing a team to execute campaigns for multiple high-profile events and project launches.
Website Content & Messaging
Wrote all website copy for summit, film festival, and project launches, establishing clear messaging for diverse audiences from scientists to surfers.
Email Marketing & Stakeholder Engagement
Developed and executed email campaigns to stakeholders. Achieved consistent 48-55% open rates (vs. 21% industry average for nonprofits).
Event Marketing & Management
Led marketing for multiple events, including the Sintra Ocean Surf Film Festival and 'Cultivating Hope' summit, managing everything from digital campaigns to print materials.
PR & Media Relations
Executed a comprehensive media outreach strategy targeting national and international press to amplify project visibility and UN Ocean Decade recognition.
Community Partnerships
Developed partnerships with local photographers, artists, food vendors, and educational institutions to build grassroots support and community engagement.
Print & Design Coordination
Managed creation of all print materials, which covered postcards, posters, and event collateral.
The Results
📧 48-55% email open rate
Consistently outperforming the 21% nonprofit industry average across all stakeholder communications
Growing engaged community
Built and maintained highly engaged subscriber base of marine scientists, investors, policy makers, and ocean advocates
Multi-channel reach
Successfully drove awareness and registrations across email, social media, website, and community partnerships
3,000+ attendees
Across film festival and community events, bringing together diverse audiences from local families to international stakeholders
Cross-sector engagement
Convened marine scientists, blue economy investors, policy makers, surfers, fishermen, and coastal communities
487 local school children
Engaged through educational programming, building next-generation support
UN Ocean Decade recognition
Strategic communications positioned the project for international recognition
