'"My passion is protecting wildlife— on land and in the ocean — while empowering the next generation of conservation leaders."

We are honored to recognize Yasmine Bennett as the 2025 Paul Walker Foundation Award and Scholarship recipient. A sophomore at Cornell University majoring in Environment & Sustainability, Yasmine is dedicated to protecting wildlife and advancing conservation. Her passion bridges both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, reflecting a deep love for animals and a commitment to creating lasting impact for our planet.

Yasmine is currently leading her first research project on the cranial lateral line in bonnethead and blacktip sharks — studying how these species sense and interact with their environment. This work expands our understanding of shark sensory systems and underscores the importance of protecting keystone species that shape ocean health.

Her passion extends beyond research. As a Diversifying Ocean Sciences Fellow with Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), Yasmine has built critical lab and field skills, while also mentoring others and advocating for diversity in conservation. She is especially devoted to inspiring underrepresented voices in ocean and environmental science, creating pathways for future leaders to thrive in spaces where they have historically been overlooked.

Through hands-on internships, international fieldwork, and leadership rooted in service, Yasmine exemplifies the values of compassion, curiosity, and courage that Paul Walker himself embodied. With the support of this scholarship, she plans to continue her studies, expand her training through programs like Shoals Marine Lab, and contribute to youth-centered initiatives that connect communities with conservation.

For more than a decade, the Paul Walker Foundation Scholarship has honored young leaders like Yasmine — changemakers who carry forward Paul’s legacy of kindness, action, and love for the ocean. By supporting their journeys, we’re investing in a future where the ocean and all wildlife are protected for generations to come.

Together, we celebrate Yasmine and the next wave of leaders who remind us daily of Paul’s mission to DO GOOD.®

'"My passion is protecting wildlife— on land and in the ocean — while empowering the next generation of conservation leaders."

We are honored to recognize Yasmine Bennett as the 2025 Paul Walker Foundation Award and Scholarship recipient. A sophomore at Cornell University majoring in Environment & Sustainability, Yasmine is dedicated to protecting wildlife and advancing conservation. Her passion bridges both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, reflecting a deep love for animals and a commitment to creating lasting impact for our planet.

Yasmine is currently leading her first research project on the cranial lateral line in bonnethead and blacktip sharks — studying how these species sense and interact with their environment. This work expands our understanding of shark sensory systems and underscores the importance of protecting keystone species that shape ocean health.

Her passion extends beyond research. As a Diversifying Ocean Sciences Fellow with Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), Yasmine has built critical lab and field skills, while also mentoring others and advocating for diversity in conservation. She is especially devoted to inspiring underrepresented voices in ocean and environmental science, creating pathways for future leaders to thrive in spaces where they have historically been overlooked.

Through hands-on internships, international fieldwork, and leadership rooted in service, Yasmine exemplifies the values of compassion, curiosity, and courage that Paul Walker himself embodied. With the support of this scholarship, she plans to continue her studies, expand her training through programs like Shoals Marine Lab, and contribute to youth-centered initiatives that connect communities with conservation.

For more than a decade, the Paul Walker Foundation Scholarship has honored young leaders like Yasmine — changemakers who carry forward Paul’s legacy of kindness, action, and love for the ocean. By supporting their journeys, we’re investing in a future where the ocean and all wildlife are protected for generations to come.

Together, we celebrate Yasmine and the next wave of leaders who remind us daily of Paul’s mission to DO GOOD.®