Susanna Thimmig Johansen

Susanna Thimmig-Johansen is CEO of the Voice of the Ocean Foundation, a circumnavigator, lecturer, and board member with extensive experience in environmental advocacy, human rights, and leadership. Over the course of her career, she has led teams and driven initiatives at organizations such as Human Rights Watch, Hand in Hand, and Project Playground, with a focus on sustainable development, ocean literacy, and fundraising for impact.

From 2022 to 2024, Sanna circumnavigated the globe with her family, connecting with ocean activists, Indigenous communities, researchers, and local stakeholders worldwide. This journey reinforced her belief in the ocean’s unifying power and the need for global collaboration to protect it.

At Voice of the Ocean, she leads efforts to increase knowledge, curiosity, and commitment to the ocean, developing strategies that combine science, storytelling, and culture to inspire action. Sanna is also a board member of Midocean AB, Ocean Books, and Deep Sea Productions, strengthening partnerships and innovation across the Blue Economy. Susanna will take part in the A’Pelago Initiative 2026 program.