speaker photo

Moronke Harris (She/her)

Founder, The Imaginative Scientist

Moronke Harris (moronkeharris.com) is an award-winning deep-sea oceanographer and science communicator fascinated by exploration, innovation, and the blue economy. Her research focuses on the untapped potential of Earth’s least explored ocean regions, where transformative discoveries could hold the key to advancing society and reversing global decline. She has spent over 150 days of her life collaboratively exploring Earth's final frontier using submersibles. Moronke is a recognized young leader in ocean sector strategy and governance, serving on the Ocean Wise Board of Directors and the UN-endorsed Early Career Ocean Professionals Canada Advisory Board. She was recently elected to The Oceanography Society Council, where she plays a key role in shaping the future of international science collaboration. Beyond academic and leadership pursuits, she is founder of ‘The Imaginative Scientist’, a creative science communication and consulting brand blending traditional outreach and artistry to produce an audience-first approach that engages, invites, and inspires curiosity. A sought-after speaker, she has delivered over 80 presentations to global audiences and has been invited to keynote major STEAM events. As science columnist for CBC Radio-Canada, she reaches over 500,000 listeners, translating complex scientific issues into engaging narratives. Her contributions to science and public engagement earned her the King Charles III Coronation Medal (Governor General’s Allocation), awarded to only 100 Canadians for exceptional service. Driven by a spirit of discovery, Moronke is currently preparing to serve as Submersible Science Team Lead on an all-female Antarctic expedition in 2026, documenting climate-driven changes firsthand. Her work has been featured by TEDxVictoria, CBC News, BBC Wildlife, Global News, and The National Film Board of Canada among others. She aims to ignite wonder, creativity, and a deeper connection to our changing ocean planet.

Sessions

OceanFest

Ocean vs. Space: The Next Frontier for Innovation

Oceans and space represent two of humanity’s most exciting and challenging frontiers. But which holds the greatest potential for innovation, investment, and impact? In this session, we’ll pit space against oceans in a lively debate, exploring the biggest opportunities, challenges, and synergies between these sectors. From satellite monitoring of ocean health to deep-sea robotics inspired by space exploration, discover how cutting-edge technologies are bridging these two worlds. Join us to hear from leading experts, uncover cross-sector collaborations, and decide which frontier will shape the future of our planet and beyond. See More.
OceanFest

Innovating for a Sustainable Blue Economy: Leadership in Action

Join us for an inspiring closing keynote with ECOP Canada Ambassador and founder of The Imaginative Scientist, Moronke Harris, an award-winning deep-sea scientist, TEDx speaker, and creative leader driving innovation at the intersection of ocean sustainability, exploration, and communication. See More.