Elsie Gabriel

Elsie Gabriel is a leading researcher in Accessible Ocean Tourism and Ocean Literacy, and a doctoral candidate whose interdisciplinary work bridges marine conservation, inclusive travel, and community engagement. With a strong commitment to making the oceans accessible to all, she advocates for sustainable and inclusive tourism practices that empower diverse communities and promote environmental stewardship. She serves as the International Director of the Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA), where she champions adaptive diving and works to break barriers for individuals with disabilities in marine exploration.She has launched the HSA training in Maldives, Philippines, Kerala, Goa, Lakshadweep Islands, Havelock Islands, Sri Lanka Islands among many others.Elsie is also the founder of Ocean School and the Young Environmentalists Programme Trust, initiatives dedicated to nurturing environmental awareness, ocean literacy, and youth leadership in conservation. A recognized global voice in climate advocacy, she is a UNESCO Green Citizens Ocean Literacy project Lead and the National Coordinator for the Climate Reality Project -India and Asia. Her work spans education, policy advocacy, and grassroots mobilization, creating meaningful impact at both local and international levels. Elsie is a PADI Adaptive Scuba certified and HSA-certified diver, and an active member of leading global bodies including the IUCN, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, and the Accessibility Association of Professionals. As a TEDx speaker,DRT ,Oztec, UN Ocean Conference and ADeX speaker she has shared powerful insights on ocean conservation, accessibility, and the role of communities in protecting our planet, inspiring audiences worldwide.