Our Team

Meet our Team!

If you want to know more about our team, we have made it easy for you to meet them online! Just have a look at our team profiles and get to know us a little better.

Shelly bengiat
Managing Director

Shelly Bengiat was Born in Colombia, grow up in Israeland lives in Australia for 25 years. Happily married and mother for teenagers, two girls and a boy. Shelly is the founder and CEO of the Envirotech International Group. Envirotech Education is a Registered Training Organisations (RTO) training under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Innovator and creator of the Australians environmental accredited MARINE Training package (MHCR) in Vocational Education and Training (VET) framework.

Maya Shalem
Managing Director

Maya Shalem was born and raised in Kibbutz Habinim. With over 13 years of experience in communication skills, psychotherapy, mindfulness, and holistic well-being, she has worked with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, parents, educational staff, and support groups. Maya is involved in teaching, therapy, and counselling, specializing in educational development, organizational consultancy, and personal and group therapy, with a strong emphasis on community support.

Noam Javits
CEO

Noam was co-founder & CEO in 5 start-ups, of which 1 IPO’d, 1 merged and 2 were acquired. His companies raised tens of millions of dollars, sold hundreds of millions and generated billions to their clients. Published 5 patents in the fileds of e-commerce, machine learning and digital marketing. Holds a B.A in Psychology, M.A in Marine Resources Management, M.Sc. in communications, and studied towards PhD in clinical psychology.

Amos Gazit
Managing Director

Amos Gazit met the sea over 35 years ago, during his life& journey for physical and mental rehabilitation following his third and last injury in theYom Kippur War - a meeting that led to a personal journey of observing, studying, and acting in restoration, conservation, and development of the tropical marine environment and those living in it, from it and alongside it. While spending countless hours diving among coral reefs, walking along the shore, and meeting people whose lives and livelihoods depend on the sea and its environment – Amos was studying and documenting the marine environment and planning and implementing programs to rehabilitate it from the ravages of civilization and climate changes.

Adi Krief
Project Manager

Adi Krief, an accomplished architect and passionate marine restoration project manager. Adi holds a degree from Tel Aviv University and is recognized as an independent architect and researcher at the Technion. Their research focuses on exploring the synergy between nature and architecture, seeking to create sustainable and harmonious spaces. With a profound understanding of cross-functional collaboration, market research, and consumer insights, Adi has successfully led start-ups and managed product development with a data-driven approach.

Their entrepreneurial journey includes founding a business for digital visualizations for architectural competitions, showcasing their problem-solving capabilities. As a marine restoration project manager, Adi's dedication and skills promise to make a significant contribution to revitalizing marine ecosystems, leaving a positive impact on the environment for generations to come.

Dr. Lee Eyal-Shaham, PhD

Growing up in Israel, Lee spent most of her childhood on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, dreaming of exploring the ‘big blue’ when she’ll grow up. Later in life, her deep love for the ocean brought her to travel around the world, exploring the dynamic of humans and nature. These journeys have made her realize how profoundly disconnected we are from the environment and led her to embark on a journey to explore the human impact on the oceans through marine biology studies. In her research, she focused on the destructive effects of climate change on the reproductive phenology of stony corals. Through her long travels and extensive scientific work, she recognized not only the great importance of the oceans to life on Earth but also the immense responsibility that lies on our shoulders, as human beings, in preserving these environments.

Lee has completed her Ph.D. in Marine Sciences at Tel-Aviv University, Israel in 2018. These days she’s working as the Marine Environmental Consultant for Envirotech. Her passion is to combine the intelligence of science and the wisdom of the spirit and bring about a shift in human and environmental consciousness.

Prof. Nadav Shashar

Nadav Shesher is a distinguished marine scientist renowned for his sensory ecology and conservation expertise. With a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland (1997), his pioneering work unravels marine animals' sensory perceptions and their significance in the underwater realm. Through diverse projects, including exploring polarized light distribution, understanding color adaptation in coral reef fish, designing artificial reefs, and deciphering dolphin communication, Shesher's research advances our comprehension of marine ecosystems and underscores the importance of their preservation.

His impactful publications reflect his dedication to expanding knowledge in marine science and inspiring a new generation of marine technicians committed to ocean conservation.

Maya Jacobs

Maya Jacobs is a seasoned environmental activist and entrepreneur, led the Zalul Environmental Association for a decade, transforming it into a prominent force for safeguarding Israel's aquatic ecosystems. Now the CEO of Climate Net, she co-founded this NGO to drive carbon dioxide removal through awareness campaigns, policy advocacy, resource mobilization, and partnerships, fostering global climate solutions. Climate Net strives to build a foundation for change, expediting existing initiatives, sparking innovative solutions, aligning diverse sectors, and catalyzing significant advancements in climate action. During her tenure at Zalul, Maya achieved notable successes, including shutting down a hazardous ammonia reservoir, curbing sewage discharge, and championing plastic waste reduction. She also pioneered coalitions, addressing offshore drilling risks and fostering environmental and social NGO collaborations. With 15 years of experience in media strategy, government relations, and philanthropic consulting, Maya's leadership is underscored by a rich academic background spanning communication, international affairs, and public administration

Yankaleh Peretz

Yankaleh Peretz joined Israel's aquaculture sector before his military service. Starting in 1983, he worked with fish farmers at the Fisheries Research Station of the Ministry of Agriculture. Following his studies, he became a consultant for the Ministry's Training and Professional Services Division, actively promoting water agriculture development in desert regions like the Arava and Negev Highlands. Yankaleh founded an edible fish cultivation course at Michmoret Marine College, managed fish farming rehabilitation in Serbia for three years, and specializes in both freshwater and marine fish farming. He runs his own laboratory, focusing on edible seaweed, ecological fish farming, and circular economy initiatives.

Melinda De Luna

Melinda de Luna is a graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, with a career spanning 25 years, Melinda has amassed a wealth of hands-on experience in the realm of marine and aquaculture management, holding pivotal roles as Vice-President for Farm Management and Senior Biologist. Her tenure in a private company situated in Palawan, a bastion of Sustainable Development practices for over 25 years, has afforded her invaluable insights into diverse sustainable methodologies, challenges, and their effective implementation.

Melinda has assumed the role of a mentor, imparting her wealth of knowledge to numerous groups of technical experts and administrative personnel. Her commitment to fostering growth and excellence extends to her nine-year tenure as the private sector representative of a municipal fisheries council. Furthermore, Melinda has made significant contributions to the community through her leadership of a corporate foundation for an impressive 15-year period. Her multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to sustainability make her a distinguished advocate in the field of marine conservation and sustainable development.

Glenda Manalo – Cadigal, MSc

Glenda Manalo-Cadigal hails from Palawan in the Philippines. A graduate of BS Forestry from the premier University of the Philippines in Laguna, where her interest in mangrove forest started. Her career is mostly focused on coastal resource assessment, management and enhancement focusing on mangroves, coral reefs and seagrasses. She is a pioneer member of the marine mammal rescue society in Palawan and a marine wildlife Red List Assessor.

Glenda completed her Master of Science in Environmental Management in 2012 and is currently completing her Ph.D. in Fisheries Management. She graduated with merit from the University of Kent in Canterbury for the Diploma in Endangered Species Management administer by the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust in Jersey, Channel Islands, United Kingdom. Glenda is also a Nuffic fellow after having completed the Ecosystem Approach on Fisheries Management from Wageningen University, The Netherlands.

Cherry Jalover - Par

Cherry Lyn Jalover-Par is a licensed Environmental Planner and diver, from the province of Palawan. She is a graduate of BS Environmental Science from Palawan State University.
Being in the conservation and sustainable development work for more than 10 years, led ger to get involved with various conservation initiatives both on presentation of environmental management concepts, facilitation of conservation management planning and its field applications, as well as doing information and education campaigns.

With her passion for environmental protection, together with her friends, they organised a group of young individuals with their main goal to promote awareness and encourage more people to take part in protecting and conserving the environment, specifically the marine ecosystem. Among the projects implemented by the Palwan Young Sustainable Environment Advocates (PYSEA) is the SCUBAsurero Project. The project names from two words: “SCUBA” and “Basurero” which is a Filipino word that means collectors of trash. The objective of the initiative is to keep our marine environment trash-free.

Lyle John Cortes

Hailing from Cebu in the Philippines, Lyle John Cortes embarked on his academic journey at the prestigious Silliman University in Dumaguete City. His professional voyage has been marked by a diverse range of experiences that underscore his commitment to the fields of marine biology and aquaculture.
Having worked as a Biologist and monitoring officer, Lyle’s proficiency was evident as he actively contributed his expertise to the tasks including management functions to observation and leveraging his extensive knowledge in reproductive biology.

Lyle’s profound love for the great outdoors, combines with an unwavering passion for wildlife and conservation, propels him to share his knowledge with all those he encounters with a particular focus on the younger generation. Driven by the conviction that the youth deserve to witness the breathtaking beauty of wildlife and nature, Lyle endeavors to be an inspirational mentor and guide, nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. His commitment to education and conservation remains steadfast, making him a pivotal advocate for preserving the wonders of the natural world.

Roberto Lampayan

Roberto is an experienced and dedicated Marine Biologist with a strong background in hatchery operations, aquaculture and project leadership for over 12 years. He has a vast expertise and hands-on experience in marine species hatchery, management, aquaculture production, microbiology and histological work.

His professional career ranges from working as Monitoring Officer, Hatchery Technician and Aquaculture Farm Manager. Dedicated to the advancement of aquaculture and marine conservation, Roberto bring a wealth of experience, innovation, and commitment to any organisation. His vast experience in coral propagation, shrimp farming, sea cucumber hatchery operations and sustainable aquaculture practices is underpinned by a deep understanding of microbiology and histological work.

Fritzie Azur, MSc

Fritzie, possesses a strong academic foundation with an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of the Philippines Diliman. Her unwavering passion for environmental stewardship compelled her to pursue a master's degree in environmental science, reflecting her dedication to sustainability and responsible environmental management. With over a decade of hands-on experience, Fritzie has become a seasoned professional in environmental impact assessment, environmental management and monitoring and Sustainability. Her expertise spans both the public and private sectors, with a notable focus on the renewable energy industry, where she served as an environmental specialist.

During her tenure in the public sector, Fritzie assumed leadership of the Adopt-a-River Project, a government-wide initiative aimed at revitalizing the nation's rivers. Her role also involved being the foremost authority on chemical safety and spill response training within economic zones, showcasing her dedication to environmental safety and compliance. Fritzie's journey into the energy sector began as an environmental officer overseeing the construction of a hydropower plant.

Her involvement subsequently expanded to encompass the business development of significant hydro and grid-scale battery projects, underscoring her diverse skill set and commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions. Beyond her professional roles, Fritzie actively contributes to a local non-government organisation dedicated to biodiversity conservation, demonstrating her genuine commitment to preserving and protecting the natural world.

Dr. Steven Andrews, Ph.D

Steven Andrews, Ph.D. is passionate about teaching and delivering impactful environmental education experiences. He has a background in marine ecology, environmental education and ecopsychology. He completed his PhD in Environmental Education & Ecopsychology from Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute, and his BS in Marine Conservation and Resource Studies (Marine Biology and Environmental Policy) from the University of California, Berkeley.

Through direct experience, combined with technology for digital storytelling and artistic expression, Steve fosters a sense of connection to the ocean and ecological literacy and believes that developing

relationships with nature are imperative for mental health as well as for positive environmental behaviour change.

Steve has developed and implemented a program for high schools and community groups that assessed participants cognitive, affective (emotional) and behavioural change (towards the ocean) through a mixed methods methodology after diving / snorkeling and taking underwater photographs – focusing on exploring and fostering the experiential and emotional connections to nature.

Steve has also been teaching field ecology courses (terrestrial and marine) at the University of Queensland at the Moreton Bay Research Station on Stradbroke Island to high school and undergraduate science camps.

David Lennon, MSc

David Lennon is an accomplished leader in marine conservation as the visionary founder of Sustainable Oceans. Holding a BSc in Oceanographic Technology from FIT in the US and an MSc in Environmental Management from Griffith University, David's academic background underpins his profound expertise.

David's journey into marine conservation started early, with his first dive at 16, followed by becoming a commercial diver at 20 and a scuba instructor at 22. With over 25 years of experience, he has worn many hats, including Environmental Consultant, R&D Manager, and Project Manager, and has even founded four successful startups. His influence has spanned across multiple countries, from Australia to the Middle East, to Cyprus, the US, and beyond.

David's expertise shines through in his pioneering work, which includes Sustainable Oceans International, Reef Design Lab, Reef Arabia, and Reef Ball Australia.

His specialisation lies in designing artificial reefs, coral relocation, marine project management, and marine impact assessments. Notably, he began constructing artificial reefs back in 1991 and has continued to design and build them worldwide, contributing to impact mitigation, reef restoration, fisheries enhancement, coastal protection, and the thriving marine ecosystem. Explore more about his work at Sustainable Oceans.

Iain Watt, MSc

Iain Watt boasts an impressive 40-year career as a Marine Environmental Management Consultant and Trainer. His vast experience spans international collaborations, cementing his reputation as a global leader in marine conservation.

Iain's extensive skill set encompasses diverse areas such as project planning and management, community capacity building, biophysical survey development, coastal zone management, and climate change adaptation. He specialises in designing artificial reefs for erosion control, wetlands and mangrove regeneration, and biodiversity conservation through sustainable marine eco-tourism.

With a master’s degree in marine environmental Protection from the University of Wales and Australian TAFE certifications in Training and Assessment and Eco Tourism, Iain's credentials are impeccable. He holds fellowships with esteemed organizations including the Royal Geographical Society, Marine Biology Association of the UK, Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association, and others.

Iain is also a seasoned diver, certified by PADI, BSAC, ADAS, and HSE, and a qualified Yacht Master Cruising Instructor. He's the founder of three successful non-governmental organizations (NGOs), including Shoals Rodrigues, Reef Conservation Mauritius, and Marine Parks Association NSW Australia.

Rhiannon Beattie

Rhiannon is a graduate of Griffith University, holding a bachelor's degree in public health. Her dedication to healthcare administration was exemplified during her tenure as the Administration Officer at QLD Health - Princess Alexandra Hospital and GCUH Hospital. In this pivotal role, Rhiannon was entrusted with the critical responsibility of delivering patient-centered care while providing swift and efficient administrative support to a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

Rhiannon's quest for knowledge and her unwavering passion for the environment led her to pursue a Certificate III in Marine Habitat Conservation and Restoration. This educational milestone has broadened her understanding of marine habitats and ecosystems, igniting a commitment to conservation and restoration efforts. Armed with her newfound skills, she is poised to engage in marine environmental assessments, project planning, stakeholder engagement, case study analysis, and the design of restoration initiatives.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Rhiannon Beattie is a Certified Advanced Free Diver and holds a SCUBA Open Water Certification. Her affinity for exploring the depths of the ocean further underscores her dedication to environmental conservation and her desire to contribute meaningfully to the protection of marine ecosystems.

Wendy Allard

Wendy Allard's profound affinity for water extends beyond the realms of aquatics; it's a lifelong passion. With a career spanning over two decades, Wendy has not only been a dedicated swim instructor since 1996 but has also made significant contributions to aquatic education across various institutions.

Committed to the pursuit of excellence, Wendy has also obtained a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment from Inspire Education, underlining her dedication to passing on her wealth of knowledge. Additionally, she holds a CPR and First Aid license, ensuring her preparedness to handle any situation, be it in the water or on land.

Daria Sobczak

Daria, a native of Poland, has cultivated her lifelong passion for environmental sustainability, drawing inspiration from her father, an environmental engineer specialising in the public sector's water department in Poland.

In pursuit of her environmental aspirations, Daria obtained a degree in Environmental Engineering from Warsaw, Poland, and further expanded her expertise in Australia where she studied Diploma in Sustainable Operations and a Diploma in Project Management, reinforcing her commitment to sustainable practices in both daily life and business operations.

Daria's global explorations, including journeys to Malta, Spain, Israel, and in-depth analysis of Polish and Australian communities, have underscored her belief in the pivotal role of education in fostering environmental stewardship. She firmly advocates that environmental science education should commence at a young age, instilling a profound connection with nature and a deep appreciation for Earth as fundamental components of standard education. Her vision is to serve as an educator and consultant, nurturing the understanding and connection between students and children and the natural world, effectively becoming a guardian of our planet.

Richard Skinner

Richard Skinner is a seasoned environmental professional with over two decades of dedicated service in the sector. As a qualified lecturer, he has made substantial contributions to curriculum development and course convenorship, fostering the growth of future environmental scientists. His expertise extends to climate adaptation strategies, environmental assessments, and contamination site investigations, reflecting his commitment to addressing complex challenges such as climate change.

Richard's career highlights include roles in hazardous substances compliance investigations, industrial premises certification, and water quality monitoring. He possesses a strong grasp of atmospheric plume dispersion modeling and acoustic measurement modeling, valuable tools for managing environmental impacts. His dedication to environmental integrity is evident in his work as a consultant and in preparing expert evidence for key hearings.

Richard's extensive international experience spans various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. In his current capacity as an Environmental Health Officer at Queensland Health, he continues to make a positive impact. Additionally, as a Lecturer in Environmental Science and Public Health at Griffith University, he shares his wealth of knowledge and contributes to the education of the next generation of environmental professionals.

Khory Hancock

Khory Hancock, an environmental and sustainability expert with over 11 years of industry experience, possesses a profound understanding of safety, quality, and environmental management systems. His diverse expertise spans sectors such as mining, infrastructure, construction, carbon farming, and climate change strategies.

Khory's tenure as an Environmental Superintendent and Team Leader at Rio Tinto saw him oversee environmental compliance in Weipa mine operations, ensuring ongoing adherence to regulations and safety protocols. He successfully implemented erosion and sediment control planning and managed Weipa's inaugural fishway monitoring project. In his role as a Safety, Quality, and Environmental Advisor at Keolis Downer, Khory managed environmental performance for the Gold Coast Light Rail operation, securing operational sustainability ratings, developing climate change adaptation strategies, and advancing carbon-neutral initiatives. Previously, as a Carbon Farming Advisor at Climate Friendly, he contributed to carbon reduction efforts and land restoration projects, conducting research and assessments.

Khory Hancock's career is driven by his deep-rooted passion for sustainability and the environment. He believes in the power of education, empowerment, strategic planning, and consistency to harmonise economic and social values while minimising our environmental footprint. His career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to these principles and his role as a catalyst for positive change in environmental and sustainability practices.

Nicki Kons

Advisory board member: Program Management and risk analytics

Nicki Kons is an experienced Chief Risk Officer and Program Manager for global companies. She is an Industrial engineer and has an MBA in finance. Nicki is GARP-Energy Risk Professional certified as well as PMI-PMP and RMP certified. She is a researcher and author as well as a country risk analyst. Nicki supports the integration of sustainability into everyday practices for global companies. She works with ground braking data analytics startups that hope to help navigating the way through AI and analytics.