Alexandra Johnston: Turning Ocean Love into Action
When Alexandra Johnston was just five years old, she watched Free Willy and everything changed. From that moment on, she was obsessed with orcas, and her deep love for the ocean was born.
Today, Alexandra is a full-time cetacean advocate, conservationist, and ocean storyteller. She works with Dolphin Project, a leading nonprofit that has been working since 1970 to end dolphin exploitation and captivity around the world. Her passion for protecting marine life is not just a job, it’s a calling.
Alexandra began volunteering for Dolphin Project over a decade ago. Over time, her dedication and expertise saw her step into a full-time role, where she now focuses on dolphin welfare, campaign strategy, and public engagement. One of the most powerful moments in her work to date was witnessing the release of formerly captive, performing dolphins into a natural sanctuary.
When asked what she wishes more people understood about the ocean, she doesn’t hesitate: “If the ocean dies, we die. It’s the most important ecosystem we have on Earth and the best playground.”
As a filmmaker, content creator, and creative director, Alexandra also uses storytelling to inspire change. Through impactful visuals and authentic messaging, she helps bring attention to the issues facing dolphins and other marine wildlife.
Her message is clear: everyone can play a part. “Whether you advocate, educate, volunteer, or get involved in citizen science, you are needed!”
About the Dolphin Project
Founded by activist and former dolphin trainer Ric O’Barry, Dolphin Project is a global nonprofit organisation committed to ending the captivity and exploitation of dolphins. The group works through a combination of direct action, education, rehabilitation, and policy change. From exposing the slaughter of dolphins in Taiji, Japan, to establishing the world’s first permanent sea pen sanctuary for retired performing dolphins, Dolphin Project is on the frontlines of the fight for cetacean freedom.
Through her work, Alexandra reminds us that protecting the ocean starts with connection and that stories can be as powerful as science in sparking change. Her journey from everyday ocean lover to global conservationist proves that passion, persistence, and purpose can truly make waves.
