Khadija El Barkaoui, PhD
Board of Directors
Portland Maine
she, her, hers
Coelle Travel
How do you spend your days? What are your passions? What is your occupation?
I love connecting with nature and cultures every day. It can be as simple as a walk in the neighborhood, a meal at a traditional local restaurant, or a journey to the desert to visit nomadic communities. My passion is bringing people together through sustainable experiences, and I’m fortunate to do this as my work leading Coelle Travel, a sustainable travel social enterprise based in Portland, ME.
Explain your connection to the ocean. How does it influence your life?
I grew up in an oasis in North Africa, where a trip to the coast often meant summer camps an escape from the heat, a break from school, and a chance to connect with new friends. The ocean has always been joy and rest.
The mission of Saltwater Classroom is to bring together young students, as well as learners of all ages, through an innovative approach to ocean education. How does this apply to your experience?
Saltwater Classroom’s mission aligns with my commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Ocean education, like the work I do in promoting sustainable tourism and community-driven initiatives, emphasizes the importance of protecting natural resources for future generations. It highlights the need for global collaboration to safeguard our environment and ensure its long-term health.
What are your earliest ocean memories?
My earliest ocean memories are from childhood summer trips to Morocco's Atlantic coast.
If you had to pick one thing, what is your favorite aspect of the ocean? We know, it's a broad question.
My favorite aspect of the ocean is that it's like its own world within our planet! Vast, mysterious, and largely unexplored. It offers so much to discover, from its ecosystems to its hidden depths, and there’s still so much we have yet to learn. The ocean holds a wealth of knowledge and lessons, reminding us of the importance of curiosity.
Is there a dream ocean destination on your list? Where would you travel to next?
The islands off the coast of Thailand that border the Pacific Ocean.
Anything else to add?
Thank you!
Founder