Who We Are
The people behind the mission — founders, filmmakers, and ocean leaders united by a single purpose.
Our Purpose
“My Clean Ocean was built on a simple belief — that the most powerful way to protect our oceans is to change how the next generation sees them. We are a team of explorers, educators, and advocates who have dedicated their lives to that belief.”
01 · Founder & CEO
Founder & CEO · My Clean Ocean
Javier Mendoza is the Founder and CEO of My Clean Ocean — a California-based philanthropist, master underwater cinematographer, and wildlife photographer whose lens has documented the beauty and fragility of ocean ecosystems across the globe.
Read Full Profile — Javier MendozaFounders, Ocean Explorers, Cinematographers, Conservation Leaders, Youth Advocates, Wellness Directors, Marine Scientists
02 · Director of Marine Operations
Director of Marine Operations · My Clean Ocean
A firefighter-paramedic turned maritime leader who brings emergency response, international ocean safety, and yacht-industry experience to the mission.
Read Full Profile — Richard Bargas
03 · Director of Film Production
Director of Film Production · My Clean Ocean
A Colombian filmmaker recognized at festivals across the Americas. Produced Pandemonium (2020), Best Picture at the Panama Horror Film Festival.
Read Full Profile — Geronimo Tzikin
04 · Florida Chapter Director
Florida Chapter Director & Social Media · My Clean Ocean
Born on the shores of the Baltic Sea, sailing since age six. Former UNESCO Biosphere Reserve educator, now building My Clean Ocean’s first East Coast chapter from Florida.
Read Full Profile — Karina Klais
05 · Director of Wellness & Eco Health
DNP · NP-C · CANS · My Clean Ocean
A DNP-prepared nurse practitioner with 13 years of clinical expertise, championing reef-safe wellness and ocean-safe skincare across every MCO program. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Monika bridges human health and marine conservation.
Read Full Profile — Mónika JáureguiJoin the Crew
My Clean Ocean is built by people who believe the ocean is worth fighting for. If that’s you — we want to hear from you.
