Meet The Team
The COAST Foundation is made up of dedicated people who are passionate about exploring, understanding, and saving marine species and habitats. These places are closely intertwined with the Trinbagonian lifestyle and explain why we love the ocean so much. Our work not only advocates marine conservation but also has a strong focus on developing the blue economy and empowering youth through education.
The team currently works across three priority areas – subsea training, the Scrap For Change program, and marine research and exploration. Our goals for these areas are driven by some of Trinidad and Tobago’s best minds in subsea construction and technology.
The COAST Foundation is governed by a combination of an advisory board and a policy board model. Board members have a demonstrated passion and commitment to the organisation and are continually growing in their knowledge and abilities. They keep the organisation’s mission at the forefront when directing the affairs of the group.
Team Members
Keith Lewis
Sebastian Lanser
Khama Philip
Dylan Galt
Keith Lewis co-founded the COAST Foundation in 2017. As executive director he not only oversees the day to day operations but also actively participates in the activities of the organisation. Keith has worked in the subsea construction industry for over 15 years. He has occupied varying leadership roles for multiple companies worldwide. His strong understanding of the clientele we serve allows him to excel in his many responsibilities. These include financial management, human resources and program development and management. He ensures that work is being carried out correctly and meets deadlines, that responsibilities to funders and fiscal obligations are met and that the direction of the agency shows forward progress. His passion for the marine world is what drives him to succeed in his career. When he is not hard at work you can find him surfing or fishing.
Sebastian Lanser also co-founded the COAST Foundation back in 2017. His similar background in subsea construction and technology is what bonded the team together. He has worked in the industry for nearly 14 years providing COAST with a high level of technical support. He makes sure policies and employee conduct are lawful and in line with the organisations mission. He takes an active approach to overseeing the organisation to prevent problems and legal issues, focusing on policy direction and oversight. Sebastian is an expert in Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and is also well versed in the seafood industry, including sales and exports. As an avid environmental advocate he raises awareness and develops strategies to promote the COAST Foundations core values and initiatives. In his down time he loves to prepare some freshly caught fish for his family.
Khama Philip was recruited as a Director in 2020. The COAST Foundation had now gained an environmental health and safety professional with over 4 years of regional experience. At the COAST Foundation Khama is responsible for ensuring health, safety and environmental best practice and regulatory compliance of projects. This involves developing risk assessments, project proposals and coordinating project development. In 2009 he completed a bachelor’s degree in marine biology and biological oceanography and has since worked in marine sciences for over 6 years. Khama recently achieved a master’s degree in renewable energy technology. His educational achievements and work experience continue to demonstrate his duty to sustainable management and environmental preservation. His professional skills and talents make him a unique asset to the team. Khama enjoys going scuba diving and spending time appreciating the places we aim to explore and preserve.
Dylan Galt joined the COAST Foundation in 2019. He has over 6 years experience as a company manger in the energy industry. As operations manager for COAST he supervises all activities involved in the provision of services at every level of the organisation. He ensures business practices maximise efficiency and adhere to company policies and protocols. He is currently coordinating the Scrap For Change initiative. His excellent communication and organisation skills make him an invaluable member of the board. Dylan also assumes the position of board secretary. He serves as the official record keeper and organises effective board meetings and AGMs to facilitate sound governance. He ensures that the board and the organisation always remain compliant. His appreciation for the marine world is reflected in his leisure time, where you might find him doing beach clean ups, fishing or just relaxing on a boat.