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Andy is first of all an experienced surfer and an ocean lover. His passion for the ocean and his will to understand how everything is interconnected pushed him to join the Octopus Foundation team. Over time, Andy became a talented reporter and a skilled drone pilot. He is a staff reporter of OCEAN71 Magazine.

andy-bwWhat role do you play at the Octopus Foundation?

During the field missions, I am in charge of the quadcopter, the aerial drone. I recently became fascinated by these small flying devices that enable us to capture stunning aerial pictures. From a boat or from land, I deploy my propellers and take flight. Back at the office, I am the journalist and translator for the French/English content of the Foundation.

What drove you to work with Julien Pfyffer and his crew?

I don’t often meet people that are even more passionate than I am about the seas and oceans. It was the case, when I met the Octopus Foundation’s team. When you are presented with an opportunity to work with such lovers of the marine world, you can’t refuse. Especially when you are given the chance to experience with the latest technologies in order to deepen various understandings. I am proud to work alongside a team whose mission is to bridge the gaps of knowledge.

Where does your relationship with the ocean come from?

I started surfing when I turned 25, and it changed my life. My interest in this sport opened a door to the complex world of ocean meteorology, bathymetry, ocean wildlife and currents to name but a few, and the interactions between all of these fields. I am naturally curious, and I found a topic that seems inexhaustible. Sometimes I wonder if there are days that go by without me learning something new. The ocean is a fascinating professor.

What are your best souvenirs with the Octopus Foundation?

In 2016, I was lucky to participate in my very first field mission with the Foundation. We went to Lampedusa. It’s important to know that I have always been fond of marine turtles. Every one of my encounter with one of these reptiles has been a magical moment. Last July, we spent two weeks with the Lampedusa Turtle Rescue clinic’s director and her team of volunteers. It was one of the best moment of my life. Being able to work with people that display such a passion for these animals and their ecosystem, and that share it with strangers, it puts everything into perspective. During a fortnight, we released half a dozen marine turtles in their natural habitat, and I followed their first moments of freedom from the sky. It was fantastic to use my small flying machine for this matter.

What are the highlights of working with the Foundation?

I enjoy taking part in projects that make sense to me. I have the luck to be surrounded by people that are not motivated by financial gains. It’s worth all the sacrifices in the world. But there are bonuses, that come in the form of field missions. After my studies, I was destined to spend my entire life in an air-conditioned office, in front of a computer screen. When I am able to spend several weeks each year flying my drone in exceptional places, for interesting projects, it’s the best feeling.