Annual Review for the year ended 30 September 2023
Giving a voice to the ocean
Ocean Culture Life Charity reference and administrative details Ocean Culture Life Limited (the Charity) is a private company, limited by members guarantee and incorporated in Jersey under the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991 on 1 May 2020, registration number 131467, and was established as a charity in Jersey on 13 December 2022. The Charity is registered with the Jersey Charity Commission with the Charity Number 456. The Charity's registration number on the Non-Profit Organisations (Jersey) Law 2008 register is NPO 1259. Directors & Trustees: T Raine, M Porteous, M Huelin (resigned Feb 2023), Alexandra Faure (appointed July 2023), Lindsey Raine Co-founder & Volunteer Chief Executive Officer: Tamsin Raine Co-founder & Volunteer Executive Director: Matt Porteous Volunteer Secretary: Seana Brooks Volunteer Treasurer (Appointed December 2023): Mark Oliver Advisory Panel: John Stares Registered Office: 2 Daisy Villas, Tower Road, St Helier, Jersey JE23HS Contact: info@oceanculture.life Bankers: Santander International, St Helier Jersey Accountants: Layzell & Co Limited
Table of Contents Charity reference and administrative details
2
Mission
4
Our Story so Far
6-7
Key Achievements over the Year
8-9
Strategy
11
Beneficiaries
12
Current Programmes
14-19
What’s Ahead
20-21
Measuring Our Impact
22-27
Statement of Financial Activities
28-33
OCL’s charitable objectives
34-35
Message From The Team
36
Our mission
is to promote the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural marine environment by seeking to widen and deepen public understanding of the issues and challenges facing the oceans.
About Ocean Culture Life Ocean Culture Life (OCL): At Ocean Culture Life, we are on a mission to be the unwavering voice of our oceans. As a marine-focused charity, we passionately champion the conservation, protection, and enhancement of our precious marine ecosystems. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14, our initiatives, such as the vibrant celebration of World Oceans Day and immersive educational workshops for the younger generation, aim to deepen public understanding and connection to our seas. By empowering storytellers and fostering collaborations with marine charities and local governments, we seek to create a global network dedicated to the sustainable enjoyment and preservation of our coastal environments.
Our story so far Ocean Culture Life (“OCL”) was founded by Matt Porteous and Tamsin Raine in 2020.
OCL has also evolved from being a parttime activity of its two founders to an effort that now includes:
Matt and Tamsin are Jersey residents with a passion for the world’s oceans but also a great concern about the challenges oceans face.
a “hub” team of 6 people in Jersey (equivalent to approximately 1.5 fulltime personnel ) a network of over 500 Guardians & Storytellers In some 12 island and coastal communities around the world an evolving set of partnerships to broaden and deepen OCL’s reach and impact.
With extensive experience in storytelling with photographs, videos and words, their aim is to use the power of storytelling to inform and engage people and move them to action to conserve, protect and improve the physical and natural environment of the world’s oceans. OCL was registered as a Charity in Jersey in December 2022. The Charity's activities have now grown to include:
Education and workshops Community building and events Experiences and expeditions Storytelling capture and creation Guardian and storyteller network
While OCL started its work in Jersey, it quickly expanded its activities to include other islands and coastal communities in larger countries such as Australia, Indonesia and Bahamas.
OUR GLOBAL COMMUNITY We’re constantly inspired by our community of more than 1,000 passionate ocean advocates, supporters, and brand partners. Together we can give a voice to the ocean in order to restore health to our most undervalued resource.
OCL'S INAUGURAL YEAR HIGHLIGHTS 2023 Sea Stories Exhibition
🌐 Island-Wide Sea Stories Exhibition: Curated 20 captivating local and international marine stories showcased through large-scale exhibition structures for two impactful months.
Pop-Up Beach Sessions
🏖️
Pop-Up Beachside Awareness: Hosted 9 dynamic pop-up events along the coastline, creating ocean awareness and engaging communities.
Storytelling Grants
📜 Sponsored local storytellers to
document Jersey's marine research efforts, contributing to a growing narrative of local marine initiatives.
Educational Workshops
🎓 Conducted 6 coastal workshops,
fostering ocean literacy and environmental consciousness among participants.
Channel Island Livestream
🌊 Connected with over 1,000 students
across Jersey, Guernsey and Herm (42 schools) in a virtual livestream event on World Oceans Day 2023, in collaboration with local charity Blue Marine Foundation.
Talks and Presentations
🎙️ Talks and Presentations: Delivered
impactful presentations to diverse audiences, including Natwest, Mourant, Como Hotels, Rosewood, Mars, and World Oceans Day.
🎙️ Media coverage: Forbes, BBC Radio,
Jersey Evening Post (x3), Gallery Magazine.
Ocean Conservation Assets Produced and shared 3,670 compelling films and photos, reaching millions of people globally to amplify ocean conservation efforts.
Social & Website Social: Newsletters shared in 2023: 14 Ocean Diary entries shared in 2023: 24 Instagram: +1 million Impressions Growth in 2023: +4000 new followers
Community Growth
👥 Welcomed 132 new community
members, comprising 45 Guardians, 73 Storytellers, and 14 Advocates, expanding the OCL family. Received 204 grant applications (100% increase from 2022)
Our Approach
Strategy Despite the “multidimensional threats” facing the worlds’ oceans, UN SDG 14 – life below water – continues to receive the least funding of any of the SDGs. We recognise that as a small-sized yet ambitious charity, we must focus on improving ocean literacy via the most impactful interventions:
PURPOSE-DRIVEN STORYTELLING INITIATIVES Developing and executing purpose-driven storytelling campaigns that amplify the unique stories of the ocean. Utilising diverse multimedia channels, including photography, film, and written narratives, to connect audiences emotionally with the ocean's challenges and triumphs.
GLOBAL COLLABORATIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS Forging strategic alliances with like-minded organisations, charities, businesses, and influencers globally. Collaborating on initiatives that leverage collective resources, creativity, and networks to amplify the message of ocean conservation and foster a global community committed to positive action.
EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH AND WORKSHOPS Implementing educational programmes and workshops targeting diverse audiences, with a focus on young people. Empowering the next generation to become ocean stewards by fostering understanding, awareness, and a sense of responsibility toward marine ecosystems.
INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION Leveraging technology to bridge the gap between science and communication. Utilising innovative platforms, virtual reality, and other technological solutions to enhance storytelling, educational outreach, and engagement. Exploring new ways to make complex ocean-related information accessible and impactful.
INSPIRE OCEAN EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS Hosting and participating in events, exhibitions, and summits that celebrate positive change in the realm of ocean conservation. Creating platforms, such as the Inspire Ocean Events, to share success stories, foster connections, and inspire collective action. Through these events, position OCL as a leading voice in the global ocean conservation community. These strategic interventions aim to not only raise awareness but also to inspire tangible actions and collaborations for the betterment of our oceans.
OCL Beneficiaries Ocean Culture Life's beneficiaries include a diverse range of stakeholders and groups:
BENEFICIARY Local Communities
DETAILS OCL aims to benefit local communities by raising awareness about ocean conservation, promoting ocean literacy, and fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among residents.
Children and Young People
Through educational workshops, pop-up events, and livestream initiatives, OCL targets children and young people, aiming to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.
Storytellers
A local and global community of storytellers are sponsored and supported by OCL to document marine research efforts, contributing to the amplification of narratives around ocean conservation.
Advocates
OCL's community includes advocates who actively support and champion the cause of ocean conservation. These individuals play a crucial role in spreading awareness and mobilising support.
Guardians
Individuals who join OCL as Guardians contribute to the community's efforts by providing support, engagement, and possibly financial contributions. They act as stewards of the ocean cause.
Educational Institutions
Through initiatives like livestream events, OCL reaches out to schools and educational institutions, contributing to the ocean literacy of students in the Channel Islands.
General Public
OCL's activities, including exhibitions, pop-up events, and online content, are designed to engage and benefit the general public by fostering a deeper understanding of ocean issues and promoting a connection to the marine environment.
These beneficiaries collectively contribute to and benefit from OCL's mission of giving a voice to the ocean and promoting the conservation, protection, and improvement of the marine environment.
Current Programmes Products and platforms overview
EDUCATION WORKSHOPS Objective: Fostering ocean literacy and environmental awareness among children and young people. Activities: Coastal workshops, virtual livestream events, and educational initiatives engaging schools and educational institutions. Impact: Empowering the next generation to become informed and passionate advocates for ocean conservation.
“The virtual workshop was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to engage with World Ocean Day, and the workbook provided was a fantastic resource” Claire, St Michael's School “ The children loved learning what lies beneath our local waters with the species quiz - a great idea!” Rob French, Trinity School
IMPACT SNAPSHOT
290 290 children participated in beach workshop
1000
4
Over 1,000 students tuned into online event
4 locations: Jersey, Guernsey, Herm & Indonesia
INSPIRE OCEAN EVENTS Objective: Celebrating positive change by showcasing stories of ocean conservation and environmental resilience. Activities: Annual events featuring exhibitions, presentations, and collaborations with leaders in ocean conservation. Impact: Providing a platform for diverse voices and initiatives, inspiring collective action towards a healthier ocean.
“OCL demonstrates that Individually we are one drop but together, we are an ocean. I left feeling nothing but admiration for OCL’s community of ocean guardians and storytellers and have since contacted Joseph Recycling to volunteer my time and sign our business up to his recycling initiative “ Jessica Reynolds, Bali “A truly incredible and inspirational team...fantastic work OCL!” Professor David Smith, London
IMPACT SNAPSHOT
34
2
5000
Ocean Guardians Showcased & Supported
2 locations: Jersey & Indonesia
Over 5000+ members of the public visited the exhibitions
STORYTELLING GRANTS Objective: Supporting local storytellers in documenting and sharing narratives related to marine research and conservation efforts. Activities: Sponsorship and mentorship for storytellers, fostering the creation of compelling content. Impact: Amplifying the stories of the sea, connecting communities with the challenges and triumphs of ocean conservation.
“The OCL team have been incredibly supportive by providing further resources beyond just the grant. I’ve been able to network with like-minded people from all over the world, and I’ve gained valuable connections that will last beyond my filmmaking career” -Angel Morris
IMPACT SNAPSHOT
Iceland petition stopped whaling
1x Film featured on Waterbear Network
6 Countries, 6 Stories, 6 Storytellers
WORLD OCEAN MONTH Objective: Promoting global awareness and engagement in ocean conservation during the dedicated month of June. Activities: Special events, exhibitions, international guests (including Danni Washington, Madeline St Clare and Professor David Smith) and campaigns to raise public consciousness on ocean-related issues. Impact: Harnessing the momentum of a global movement to drive sustainable practices and conservation initiatives.
“I’ve always enjoyed spending time in and around the ocean, but now I know why. The advocacy work OCL does is so incredibly important and has inspired me to be part of the change we need. Jersey desperately needs more events like this!” Richard Picot, Jersey
IMPACT SNAPSHOT
300
7
5000
Over 300 attendees across two events
Ocean Guardian Talks over two days
Over 5000+ members of the public visited the exhibition
OCEAN CONSERVATION STORYTELLING: Objective: Capturing and sharing impactful ocean conservation stories, spotlighting organisations committed to preserving our seas. Activities: On-site capture of visuals and narratives showcasing conservation efforts. Workshops: Empower local communities through storytelling workshops, nurturing advocates for ocean conservation. Impact: Raising global awareness and foster community engagement in ocean conservation.
“Being able to work with OCL’s global community of Storytellers has allowed us to effectively communicate our science with clarity. They have guided us through the storytelling process from start to finish and we are fortunate enough to have been able to work with such an inspiring and passionate team” Eleanor Moore - Mars Sustainable Solutions
STORYTELLER & GUARDIAN PLATFORM: Objective: Building a global community of advocates, storytellers, and ocean guardians united in the cause of marine conservation. Activities: Online platform for collaboration, sharing resources, and facilitating connections among individuals and organisations. Impact: Creating a network that amplifies the impact of collective efforts, connecting like-minded individuals for a common cause.
These programmes, products, and platforms collectively contribute to Ocean Culture Life's mission of giving a voice to the ocean and promoting the sustainable use of marine resources for the well-being of our planet.
What’s ahead 2024 and beyond
OCL’s strategy for the coming year In 2017 the United Nations published “THE OCEAN AND THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS UNDER THE 2030 AGENDA FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT”. To provide support for that agenda, OCL has set itself a set of goals to achieve by 2030, with intermediate goals to be reached by 2026. The main 2030 goals which OCL aims to meet, working with its partners and members of its Guardian Network are:
GOALS
DETAILS
Community presence
A substantive presence in at least 30 SIDS and at least a further 40 Island or Coastal communities
Education
Events, Experiences, and endearment
Story Library
The Ocean Speaks Publication
OCL Platform
Delivering a well-structured education programme in schools, developed from the programme currently delivered in schools in Jersey and Guernsey, in at least 60% of the communities in which it has a substantive presence
Delivering events such as beach days, World Ocean Month programmes, and exploration programmes like those recently organised in Jersey and Indonesia
Building and making available the compendium of stories that raise awareness, generate interest and lead people to action. OCL will be publishing a printed book alongside QUARTO Publishing Group in June 2024. Available worldwide and in 10 different languages, this book is an extraordinary collection of expert testimonies from OCL global community of ocean enthusiasts. Each one tells the story of the fight to save the ocean and its inhabitants by any means. A vibrant collection of over 200 stunning images of the ocean from all corners of the world, taken by a community of underwater photographers— including divers, marine biologists, surfers, influencers, conservationists and filmmakers. Through our new website and platform application we provide access to our programmes for children, families, and educators to reach and inspire them, wherever and whenever they want.
Measuring our impact
Measuring our impact Ocean Culture Life (OCL) has made significant strides in contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially focusing on SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). This revised report includes both qualitative and quantitative data to underscore the impact of OCL’s initiatives.
EDUCATION WORKSHOPS
SDG’S IMPACTED
290 children participated in workshops (270 in physical workshops, 20 in World Oceans Day public event). Feedback from participants indicated increased awareness and engagement with ocean conservation. Locations Impacted: Jersey and Channel Islands.
INSPIRE OCEAN EVENTS INSPIRE OCEAN events create a profound impact by fostering global community connections. People of all ages came together to attend our Coral Restoration workshop, closing the evening with our ‘Stories over Supper’ with our Indonesia community of change makers. Over 5000 people visited the exhibition(s). Over 50 people joined the beach clean Locations: Jersey & Indonesia.
SDG’S IMPACTED
WORLD OCEANS DAY EXHIBITION
SDG’S IMPACTED
The exhibition was visible around the island to the public from 1 June till the end of August. Each board contained the story of one local ocean storyteller or guardian, and one international ocean storyteller or guardian. Location: Jersey.
CORPORATE ENGAGEMENT
SDG’S IMPACTED
Over 1000+ attendees across various corporate talks. Strengthened corporate partnerships and education on ocean conservation. Location: Jersey and others
COMMUNITY REACH 132 new community members (45 Guardians, 73 Storytellers, 14 Advocates). Increased community engagement and support for ocean conservation. Location: Global.
SDG’S IMPACTED
GUARDIAN SUPPORT
SDG’S IMPACTED
Over 200 mentorship calls. Enhanced capacity and skills among guardians for ocean conservation. Location: Global.
OCEAN CONSERVATION
SDG’S IMPACTED
ASSETS Over 200 mentorship calls. Enhanced capacity and skills among guardians for ocean conservation. Location: Global.
STORYTELLING GRANTS
SDG’S IMPACTED
2023 welcomed the opportunity for grantees from 2022 to document and share their stories (see below). 2023 grant applications opened in November with £15,000 being allocated. Funds were awarded in January 2024 due to a delay with diligence checks.
KAUSH SUBRAMANIAM - MOZAMBIQUE Kaush Subramaniam: 'Peixinho' (Little Fish). Documented sustainable fishing practices in Mozambique. Location: Mozambique £3000 awarded "The OCL storytelling grant was invaluable in making this project happen."
MADELINE ST. CLAIR - MALDIVES Madeline St. Clair: EMPOWER OCEAN. Impacted women in coral reef communities. Enhanced female empowerment in ocean guardianship. Location: Maldives £3000 awarded SDG’s Impacted: 14 & 5
STEFAN PETURSSON - ICELAND Stefan Petursson:LET THEM LIVE. Influenced public opinion on whale conservation. £3000 awarded Location: Iceland "This grant allowed me to explore whaling in depth and make something truly impactful."
ALICE - UK Alice: “Finally I Sea.” where she took children in the UK to the seaside to show them the beauty of the coastlines. Location: UK £500 awarded “OCL have been a huge part of this journey in making the film. The main barrier for children not getting to the seaside is transport, but through OCL’s amazing grant I was able to hire a mini bus to get the children to and from the sea. Thank you OCL from me and the children in the show.”
ANGEL MORRIS - USA Angel: “Diving with Rays” to raise awareness for the LGBTQ community in marine biology. Location: USA £500 awarded “The grant was so incredibly helpful because it enabled me to take this film over the line and buy some post production equipment, and it set me up for success for future projects.Thanks to this grant I was able to get my film onto a streaming platform”
JACK SEARSON - JERSEY Received funds to support the stories of three local ocean guardians in Jersey, one of which was Jersey Marine Conservation charity. His films were used by organisations and the local government to showcase some of the important work being done in Jersey to protect our ocean. Location: Jersey £1250 awarded Jersey Marine Conservation: “Your support in telling our story has been instrumental to help us demonstrate our work and secure further funding” - Kevin McIlwee
Statement of Financial Activities
financial review Mechandise £11,494
Income and Endowments from Donations and legacies £8,259
Other Revenue £4,000
Restricted Income Education Workshop (JCF) £10,000
TOTAL INCOME £125,736 Storytelling Capture Creation £54,474
Event Income £36,351
School Workshops £3,229
Book Design £9000 Storytelling Expenses £24,979
COSTS OF RAISING FUNDS £75,020 £15,000 for Storytelling Grants reserved for January 2024 due to delay in fund allocation)
Event & Workshop Expenses £16,377
Freelancers £19,070
Breakdown of funds Total Income
Cost of raising funds
Breakdown of funds Administration Costs
No staff were employed by the charity during the current year (2022: None). The key management personnel, comprised of trustees, received total employment benefits, including employer pension contributions, amounting to £Nil.
Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year £6,400 £15,000 Grants awarded January 2024 £15,000 Community Platform Build January 2024 £10,000 Jersey Community Foundation Educational Grant (received September 2023) reserved for 2024 programme In the spirit of transparency and commitment to our mission, we want to inform our valued community and supporters that £15,000 of funds carried forward will be allocated in January 2024 for Storytelling Grants. Originally intended for distribution in September 2023, unforeseen operational delays led to the rescheduling of these allocations. In addition, £15,000 has been allocated for the development of our community platform. This allocation was delayed due to operational reasons, and the funds are earmarked for utilisation in the upcoming financial year to enhance our engagement with the community.
These Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies' regime and in accordance with the provisions of FRS 102 Section 1A - small entities, A full set of accounts have been filed with The Jersey Charity Commissioner and are available on request from you.
Charity Objectives
Objectives Since its establishment in 2022, the Charity's aim, which has remained at the core of its work is:
1
The advancement of public awareness and public participation in marine conservation;
2
Educational storytelling workshops to advance local arts;
3
Annual promotion and celebration of World Oceans Day in Jersey;
4
Storytelling Grant programme to support ocean related campaigns with measurable call to actions in order to raise awareness and encourage further support for the ocean sector of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal.
5
Encourage the benefits of the sea and coastline by encouraging people to get out and enjoy the health benefits
a Message from our team In the vast expanse of the world's oceans lies an intricate tapestry of
The ocean's challenges are vast, but so is our community's determination.
life, beauty, and challenges. At
Yet, the power to effect change
Ocean Culture Life (OCL), we recognise the profound
doesn't rest solely in our hands; it requires collective action. Your
importance of this delicate ecosystem and the urgent need to
support is the catalyst that propels our initiatives forward. It fuels the
protect and restore it. Our
storytelling grants, the educational
existence is grounded in a simple yet powerful belief: the ocean
workshops, and the global reach of our message.
deserves a voice. The ocean is a source of life, Our purpose is clear—to be the storytellers, guardians, and advocates for our oceans. Through the lens of conservation, protection, and sustainable use, we strive to widen public
inspiration, and wonder. Let us ensure that its stories are not only heard but cherished, protected, and passed on to generations to come.
understanding of the issues facing our seas. OCL is more than an
champions of our cause, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your belief in the importance of ocean conservation is the wind beneath our sails. Together, let us continue to be the steadfast guardians our oceans so desperately need.
organisation; it is a movement, a global community united by a shared commitment to the wellbeing of our oceans. Behind the scenes, our dedicated team and army of volunteers work tirelessly to document, share, and celebrate the stories of those actively safeguarding our seas. From local initiatives to international collaborations, our operations span continents, amplifying the collective efforts to address the multidimensional threats faced by our oceans.
To our donors, supporters, and the
Tamsin Raine & Matt Porteous Co-Founders
thank you A huge thank you to all our team, partners, collaborators, supporters and friends who are listed below and the many more who are not. We are very grateful for your support on this important journey. Without you, OCL wouldn’t be what it is today. With thanks to the following organisations: Donors Mourant Mars Sustainable Solutions Ocean Born Foundation Jersey Community Foundation TekEx JT Community Giving Ben King Condor Ferries
In Kind Donations Nude Food SANDS Lumiere Collective The Studio_M Jersey Tipi Submarine Creative Como Uma Stubble & Co Sign Solutions Andreea Gabriela Art
With thanks to the following people: Seana Brooks, Darby Bonner, Kate Butchart, William Crawford, Joe Davies, Pete O'Donnell, Phillip Faure, Alexandra Faure, Paul Haley, Peter Gay, Andreea Gabriela, Chris Herlihy, Mandy Herbert, Will Harrison, , Mandy Huelin, Claire Malkoun, Christina Korp, Artur Martinho, Ellie Moore, Lucy Morris, Mark Oliver, Maria Padget , Lindsey Raine, Zara Raymond, Will Robinson, Marianne Russell, Andrew Roff, John Stares, Carolina Manhusen Schwab, Professor David Smith, Nicole Stott, Jos Van Oostrum, Tim Wilson.
Published January 2024 Authors: Tamsin Raine, Alexandra Faure, Seana Brooks
Ocean Culture Life 2 Daisy Villas, Tower Road St.Helier, Jersey JE2 3HS +44 (0) 7568545960 www.oceanculture.life info@oceanculture.life