Yolanda Lee Waters

(She/her)

Dr. Yolanda Waters is a marine social scientist and climate communications researcher. Her research explores how human connections with the ocean and nature can inspire behaviour change, combining environmental psychology with evidence-based communication strategies. A sought-after public speaker, Yolanda has delivered over 100 invited talks, from grassroots workshops to international conferences, and is a trusted media spokesperson. Her work spans academia, advocacy, industry, and government, and she has designed and delivered national programs on communicating for behaviour change. Yolanda is also the founder and CEO of Divers for Climate, a non-profit organisation that aims to mobilise the global dive community towards stronger climate action, a research fellow at the University of Queensland, and the Director of Research at the Multicultural Leadership Initiative.

Experience

  • 2022–present
    Research fellow, University of Queensland

Education

  • 2024 
    University of Queensland, PhD. Environmental and Marine Social Science (Climate Change Communication)
  • 2018 
    Australian National University, Bsc. Environment and Sustainability (First Class Honours)
  • 2017 
    Australian National University, BSc. Genetics

Contact Yolanda for

  • General
  • Media request
  • Speaking request
  • Consulting / Advising
  • Research collaboration
  • Research supervision