Meet the Chair
Introducing Karen Alexander, our new Chair of the YSCS Board!
“If you’re passionate about protecting our oceans, you’re already on a powerful path.”
In February 2026, we welcomed Karen Alexander to the YSCS team. Karen is stepping up to the helm as Chair of the Board, helping to guide the direction, strategy and goals of YSCS. Our Project Coordinator, Sophie, asked Karen to tell us a bit about her background, how she ended up in this role, what comes next and what advice she has for young people interested in standing up for our seas.
Tell us a bit about your career journey and what led you to this role?
“My career path has been anything but straightforward, and I’ve learned a lot by exploring different interests along the way.”
“I’ve always been passionate about politics and society, and after university, I developed a real love for marine conservation, especially after volunteering in the Philippines on marine protected area surveys. That experience inspired me to return to university as a mature student to complete an MSc in environmental governance and later a PhD in marine science.
Karen diving in Scotland
Since then, I’ve worked as a lecturer and researcher focusing on how people interact with the marine environment. I’m particularly interested in making sure decisions about our oceans reflect a wide range of voices in society, including young people. I’m even supervising a PhD student who is exploring this very issue!”
Why do you think it’s important for young people to have a voice in marine policy?
“I believe young people should play a central role in marine policy for two key reasons. First, there’s a strong moral argument: the decisions we make today will shape the world they inherit. This point is often highlighted in discussions about environmental issues, and it’s an important reminder of our responsibility to future generations.
But just as importantly, young people bring unique perspectives and experiences that enrich decision‑making. They’re often less tied to ‘how things have always been done’, which gives them space to be creative, innovative, and willing to think differently. Their fresh ideas can help challenge assumptions and open new possibilities for how we care for our oceans.”
“By involving youth voices early and meaningfully, we make marine policy stronger, fairer, and more forward‑looking”
What is your vision for the future of YSCS?
“My vision for the future of YSCS is a shared one, shaped together with our board, leadership team, and community. We want every young person in Scotland, no matter their background or experience, to feel empowered to act for healthy seas and to have their voices genuinely heard in marine policy. I hope to see young people supported to grow their knowledge, confidence, and awareness of marine issues. I also want to see them actively influencing decisions at every level, from local initiatives to national government, and across industry and the third sector. Just as importantly, I hope YSCS continues to bring young people together, helping them build connections, strengthen their communities, and work collectively to drive meaningful change for our ocean.”
Karen delivering a keynote speech in Paris
What advice would you give to young people passionate about our seas?
“If you’re passionate about protecting our oceans, you’re already on a powerful path.”
“My biggest piece of advice is to stay curious: learn as much as you can about marine issues, whether through formal education such as university, citizen‑science projects, beach cleans or simply exploring the coast with a guidebook in hand. Even small experiences can spark big ideas. Get involved in your community by joining local environmental groups, taking part in youth forums, or volunteering with organisations working on marine conservation. Your voice matters, and there are many spaces where you can contribute meaningfully. Most importantly, surround yourself with others who share your passion. Building connections not only strengthens your confidence but also helps create a supportive community working toward the same goal. Your actions, big or small, can drive real change for our seas.”
Karen in Antarctica
Tell us about your favourite coast or sea spot in Scotland.
“Scotland has such an extensive and beautiful coastline that it’s almost impossible to choose just one favourite spot. I grew up on the West Coast and had many early marine adventures there, so it feels right to pick somewhere from that side of the country. Today, I’d choose Loch Creran, a stunning 10km sea loch in Argyll and Bute. The whole loch is protected for its incredible marine life, and it’s where I did much of my early scuba diving. I have fond memories of exploring the Queenie reef, marvelling at the delicate Serpulid reefs, searching for nudibranchs (my favourite sea creatures!), and drift‑diving beneath Creagan Bridge. Those experiences really sparked my love for the ocean and eventually led me toward my career as a marine social scientist.
But ask me again tomorrow, and I might have a different answer!”
Brittlestars with horse mussels and green urchins, Loch Creran - Graham Saunders © Marine Scotland