Full Name
Dr. Shelby Thomas
Job Title
CEO, Founder
Company
Ocean Rescue Alliance International
Speaker Bio
Dr. Shelby Thomas is a marine scientist, climate advocate, and founder of Ocean Rescue Alliance International (ORAI), a nonprofit dedicated to restoring marine ecosystems and building climate-resilient coastal infrastructure. She holds a Ph.D. in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences and a Master’s in Marine Ecology from the University of Florida, where her research focused on coral reef ecology, restoration science, and the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems.
Dr. Thomas has led and contributed to more than 40 marine restoration and conservation initiatives globally, working across coral reef, seagrass, oyster, scallop, and sea urchin ecosystems. Her work focuses on developing innovative, nature-based solutions that address both biodiversity loss and coastal climate resilience. Through ORAI, she has pioneered regenerative ocean infrastructure projects that combine science, art, and community engagement to rebuild marine habitats while inspiring public stewardship.
A recognized leader in the ocean conservation movement, Dr. Thomas frequently speaks at international conferences and policy forums, including global sustainability and ocean leadership events. She has delivered a TEDx talk on ocean restoration and was selected as a Youth for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) representative through the United Nations Peace Boat program. Her work bridges science, policy, and community action, helping translate complex environmental challenges into scalable solutions.
Dr. Thomas has received numerous honors for her leadership and innovation, including international awards recognizing her contributions to environmental sustainability and climate solutions. Her projects focus on building regenerative blue economies that restore ocean ecosystems, protect coastlines, and create new opportunities for communities connected to the sea.
Through her scientific research, nonprofit leadership, and global advocacy, Dr. Thomas continues to advance climate-resilient ocean restoration and inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.
Dr. Thomas has led and contributed to more than 40 marine restoration and conservation initiatives globally, working across coral reef, seagrass, oyster, scallop, and sea urchin ecosystems. Her work focuses on developing innovative, nature-based solutions that address both biodiversity loss and coastal climate resilience. Through ORAI, she has pioneered regenerative ocean infrastructure projects that combine science, art, and community engagement to rebuild marine habitats while inspiring public stewardship.
A recognized leader in the ocean conservation movement, Dr. Thomas frequently speaks at international conferences and policy forums, including global sustainability and ocean leadership events. She has delivered a TEDx talk on ocean restoration and was selected as a Youth for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) representative through the United Nations Peace Boat program. Her work bridges science, policy, and community action, helping translate complex environmental challenges into scalable solutions.
Dr. Thomas has received numerous honors for her leadership and innovation, including international awards recognizing her contributions to environmental sustainability and climate solutions. Her projects focus on building regenerative blue economies that restore ocean ecosystems, protect coastlines, and create new opportunities for communities connected to the sea.
Through her scientific research, nonprofit leadership, and global advocacy, Dr. Thomas continues to advance climate-resilient ocean restoration and inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.
Speaking At
