Daniela Singhal, Lady Astrid Arens

Frankfurt, 2025 – Bright evening lights over the Frankfurt skyline and an audience filled with enthusiasm, respect, and emotion.

On November 7, 2025, the Iberian Orca Guardians Foundation was honored with the Golden Planet Award 2025 at Radio Frankfurt’s iconic Skyline Studios. This award recognizes individuals and organizations that have made an exceptional contribution to our planet and the well-being of society.

A moment of deep appreciation

The foundation, established by Sarah Connor and Janek Andrè, was represented that evening by Daniela Singhal. In his laudatory speech, Raoul Helmer emphasized the courage, passion, and humanity that characterize the work of the Iberian Orca Guardians. The applause in the studio demonstrated how deeply the foundation’s mission touches people around the world.

Protection for one of the world’s most endangered orca populations

The Iberian Orca Guardians are dedicated to a task that is both scientifically challenging and emotionally significant: protecting the Iberian orcas, a tiny population of just a few dozen individuals living off the Iberian coast. Through on-site patrols, scientifically based educational work, support for sailors and fishing companies, and consistent public relations work, the foundation is setting new standards in international marine conservation.

Their commitment goes far beyond traditional nature conservation work: they approach conflicts between humans and animals with understanding, a focus on solutions, and a deep connection to the sea. The foundation transforms fear into knowledge and apprehension into respect, thereby creating a genuine cultural shift in how we interact with these majestic sea creatures.

An evening full of inspiration

The atmosphere at Skyline Studios was marked by gratitude and emotion. Guests from politics, business, science, culture, and international sustainability networks paid tribute to the foundation’s achievements. Their speech reminded us that the future of our planet depends on people who courageously lead the way before others follow.

An award as a guide for the future

The Golden Planet Award 2025 is intended to be not only an honor, but also an amplifier. It highlights what often happens behind the scenes: tireless, often challenging, and deeply meaningful work for marine life. The Iberian Orca Guardians Foundation shows how sustainable change comes about – through knowledge, perseverance, and a team that leads with its heart.

With this honor, the Golden Planet Award sends a clear message to the world: nature conservation is not a luxury – it is our shared responsibility.

The Iberian Orca Guardians Foundation is a prime example of this. Their commitment gives hope, inspires people worldwide, and reminds us how precious and vulnerable our natural world is.

A big thank you also goes to the initiators of the Golden Planet Award 2025: Lady Dr. h.c. Astrid Arens (Voice Aid Association) and Stephan Schwenk (Radio Group), who successfully hosted this special event for the fourth time at the Sykline Studios of Radio Frankfurt.