About REEFlect
Youth-Led Ocean Innovation for a Planet in Crisis.
REEFlect is a student-founded 501(c)(3) nonprofit reshaping how the next generation tackles ocean and climate challenges. Our work is rooted in action—blending science, engineering, and education to create real-world environmental impact.

Our Achievements
Over $15,000
Secured from sources including the Awesome Foundation & 1517 Fund
2+ Countries
Active projects (USA & Ghana)
Open Data
Via OpenOceans.life
Guiding Principles
Our Mission & Core Values
REEFlect is dedicated to reshaping how the next generation tackles ocean and climate challenges. Our work, rooted in action, blends science, engineering, and education to create real-world environmental impact, guided by these core principles:
Innovation
Embracing cutting-edge, open-source technology like our smart buoys to solve complex ocean health challenges.
Collaboration
Partnering with researchers, local organizations (e.g., Clean Ocean Project Ghana), and global communities to amplify impact.
Openness & Transparency
Ensuring open access to data (via OpenOceans.life) and findings to foster trust, accountability, and wider participation.
Education & Engagement
Empowering communities with knowledge via workshops, film screenings (like in Ghana), and educational programs to inspire stewardship.
Sustainability
Committed to sustainable practices and developing low-cost, accessible solutions for long-term ocean protection.
Youth-Led Action
Championing bold, youth-driven solutions at the intersection of climate science, education, and equity.
Our Success Stories
Global Impact & Recent Highlights
From local shores to international waters, REEFlect is making a tangible difference. Here are some of our key achievements and ongoing efforts, fueled by generous support.
Ghana Initiative: Cleanups & Movie Showings
Successfully organized and led beach cleanups in Ghana (April 2025) and hosted engaging climate movie showings, fostering vital community awareness in West Africa.
Smart Buoy Deployment in Ghana
Deployed our open-source smart buoy in Ghana, providing real-time ocean data (temperature, etc.) accessible via openoceans.life, empowering local research and education.
Key Funding Secured
Received over $15,000 in vital funding from sources including the Awesome Foundation and 1517 Fund, enabling our project development and expansion.
REEFlect Featured in the Dublin Patch!
Learn more about our roots, local impact, and international efforts in this community spotlight.
Get Involved & Make a Difference
Join Our Dedicated Volunteer Team
REEFlect's impact is amplified by our passionate global volunteers. We've developed structured programs and resources to help you contribute effectively and grow with us.
Tech for Science
Advancing Marine Science through R&D
Our commitment to innovation extends to dedicated research and development projects aimed at creating new tools for ocean conservation, from AI-driven data analysis to novel sensor technologies.
Advanced Coral Metrics
Leveraging learnings from an AIMS internship, we are working on tools to analyze underwater imagery and extract key coral health metrics.
Machine Learning in Oceanography
Exploring applications of Machine Learning, like Gaussian Processes for Sea Surface Temperature (SST) prediction, to enhance oceanographic data analysis from our smart buoy network.
Testimonials
What Our Partners & Community Say
FAQs
More About REEFlect
Answers to common questions about our organization, impact, and how we operate.
What is REEFlect's legal status?
REEFlect is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded by high school students, committed to marine conservation through technology.
How does REEFlect utilize its funding?
All funding, including support from key sources like the Awesome Foundation and 1517 Fund, directly supports our project deployments (like smart buoys in Ghana), R&D, educational programs, and operational costs for scaling our impact.
What are REEFlect's key areas of technological innovation?
We focus on open-source smart buoy technology for real-time ocean data (accessible on openoceans.life), development of tools for coral metric analysis, and applying machine learning to oceanographic data.
How can I volunteer or contribute to REEFlect?
We welcome volunteers across various skill sets! You can apply through our Typeform. We also appreciate donations to help fund our projects.
Where does REEFlect operate?
While founded in Dublin, CA, REEFlect has a global vision and has already initiated projects internationally, such as our comprehensive engagement in Ghana, West Africa, including cleanups, movie showings, and buoy deployment.
Get in Touch
Connect With Us
We're always eager to hear from potential volunteers, partners, and supporters.
Have questions about our projects, volunteering, or how you can support REEFlect? Reach out to us!
General Inquiries
Email: srikanthsamy@reeflect.org
Volunteer Coordination
Join via: Typeform Link