Meet Natascha, storyteller and founder of G51 – a centre for female economy. Natascha joined us for Leg 2 of our Round the World expedition. We have been catching up about the impact eXXpedition has had on her work post-voyage and how she has been using her superpower to drive change.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I studied law and behavioural science but have since moved into the entrepreneurial space, focusing on female rights.
I am also an avid female rights and ocean activist – without justice, there can be no hope for either climate justice or water justice.
How did you end up joining an eXXpedition voyage?
I have always been passionate about and conscious of the environment. My mother played a huge role in shaping this awareness – she was deeply committed to a waste-free lifestyle, from shopping at farmer’s markets and composting to eating seasonal foods. Nature has always been my happy place, and spending time outdoors constantly reminds me of our responsibility to protect it.
The first time I heard Emily speak at a conference, I knew eXXpedition was something I wanted to be part of. Her story resonated with me – I wanted my own story to tell, just like she did. So, I applied and embarked on a journey that would change my perspective.
As a woman, I also saw the immense potential in reshaping how stories are told. I wanted to contribute to a new narrative – one where women in sports, science, and ocean conservation are seen, heard, and valued.
What did you learn on the voyage that most surprised you?
Realising just how vast the ocean is – and how small we are in comparison. When you spend three weeks at sea without seeing anything but water, the enormity and magic of the natural world become strikingly clear. I now refer to Mother Earth as Mother Ocean – after all, 71% of its surface is covered with water.
As humans, we consider ourselves the “cleverest” species on Earth, but my eXXpedition experience reinforced how incredibly intelligent nature is – and how deeply interconnected we are with it.
“we consider ourselves the “cleverest” species on Earth, but my eXXpedition experience reinforced how incredibly intelligent nature is – and how deeply interconnected we are with it.”
How would you describe your superpower?
Creating and holding spaces while bringing together diverse people for a common cause. I thrive on facilitating conversations, fostering connections, and building environments where ideas and collaboration can flourish.
I believe that true change happens when people from different backgrounds unite. My ability to create these spaces – whether through discussions, initiatives, or movements – not only keeps me inspired but also empowers others to take action.
“I believe that true change happens when people from different backgrounds unite.”
How has the voyage influenced your work since?
Beyond founding G51, I have actively engaged with my network to share my eXXpedition story, inspiring others to discover how they, too, can contribute to protecting our planet. My mission extends beyond raising awareness – I aim to shift narratives, amplify female voices, and drive real change.
I have been featured in two documentaries with fellow eXXpedition ambassador Marita Schmidt and have spoken on multiple podcasts, using storytelling as a powerful tool to challenge traditional perceptions of women in sports, science, and environmental activism. Through these platforms, I have worked to reshape how we view leadership and innovation in tackling global environmental challenges.
In addition, I have joined various networks to expand my impact. For example, I was invited to join Your 2040 – a network of interdisciplinary activists working toward systemic change. This year’s theme at the annual conference was water, and I was interviewed as part of the discussions.
Recognising the importance of community and conversation, I co-founded Ocean Talks alongside fellow ocean activist Martina Trepczyk. This initiative fosters dialogue on ocean conservation, sustainability, and the role of women in driving solutions. Martina and I also collaborated on the documentary Meerfrauen, which tells the stories of women dedicated to protecting our oceans. The film will premiere on International Women’s Day in March 2025, bringing these critical conversations to a wider audience.
I have also been actively writing, which I truly love. I’ve published several articles – one on microplastics in cosmetics, another on the potential of the XX economy (highlighting the immense opportunity in empowering women), and more recently, articles on corporate sustainability and gender bias in sustainability law, which have been published in books.
“My mission extends beyond raising awareness – I aim to shift narratives, amplify female voices, and drive real change.”
By combining advocacy, media, and direct action, I strive to empower individuals and organisations to rethink their impact on the planet and take meaningful steps toward a more just and sustainable future.
What Keeps You Hopeful About The Future Of The Ocean?
Seeing the action and impact of others keeps me hopeful. Young people, in particular, are incredibly inspiring. Watching them come together to drive change strengthens my belief that transformation is possible.
I am stubbornly hopeful. The more women step into leadership, the more hopeful I become.
Photo Credit: Nina Jirgensome
If You Could Give One Message To The World, What Would It Be?
Just do it. Use actions, not words. No matter how small the step may seem, you never know what ripple effect it may have. Even if you don’t see it, your actions will impact someone, somewhere – and that is what truly matters.
“Just do it. Use actions, not words. No matter how small the step may seem, you never know what ripple effect it may have.”
Photo Credits: Erica Cirino, Nita Jigernsone, Sophie Dingwall, Emilie Boege Dresler, Natascha Fürst