Our Story

The Levine Family Foundation (LFF) is a philanthropic organisation seeking to address the catastrophic stresses marine life currently faces, in the hope that our oceans can thrive again as they once did. Through our research the foundation has connected with scientists, conservationists, lawyers, policymakers, activists and grant makers. Together, we are working to reverse the current spiralling trends which so threaten our oceans and the survival of the billions who depend on it. Set up in 2018, LFF is a UK registered charity with a wide geographical remit. The Levine Family Foundation is born from the philanthropy of Miranda and Ben Levine.

Our Team

Miranda Levine

Founder / Trustee

Miranda is a biology graduate and a keen diver. She grew up in Belgium and Luxembourg before moving to the UK. Miranda worked in media recruitment for 10 years and then moved to Hong Kong where she spent seven years. She now lives in Zurich, Switzerland with her husband Ben, their three children (Lucas, Gabriel and Ivy) and two dogs (Bob and Jeff).

Ben Levine

Advisor

Ben has a BA in Economics and an MSc in Econometrics. He worked at Goldman Sachs for 10 years, UBS for 2 years and has since been CEO of LMR Partners (2009 onwards). Ben comes from an equity trading background and now specialises in quantitive trading. He is a keen and experienced diver.

Emma Holyoake

Trustee

Emma is an ethical investor and trustee, with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and humanitarian impact. In addition to her role supporting children affected by conflict through a war-focused charity, she is honoured to serve as a trustee the Levine Family foundation. A dedicated advocate for the protection of our oceans, Emma combines her global outlook and love of travel with a deep concern for the planet’s future. Her work reflects a commitment to long-term, responsible stewardship across both human and ecological landscapes.

Sophia Leventis

Trustee

Sophia has spent 13 years supporting people through mentoring in prisons and schools across London. This has included running courses on restorative justice, parenting and 1-1 coaching. She’s also spent time guiding athletes behind the scenes and coordinating events in the sports and entertainment world. With a background in welfare, logistics, and VIP support, she’s passionate about creating spaces where individuals feel heard, supported, and able to thrive. Sophia brings empathy, discretion, and a deep belief in the power of human connection to everything she does.

Melissa Spiteri

Director of Funding

Melissa grew up in Asia where she became very involved in conservation issues. She moved to London in the late 90s to complete a BSc in Geography. After a short stint in corporate events and hospitality, she set-up a foundation in India for 2 years which delivered environmental and health projects. Since then she has lived in London and worked in a variety of NGOs focusing on homelessness, international development, disability, global health and environmental conservation.

Nina Levy

Grants Coordinator

Nina has a background in grant-making and research grant administration, most recently working for the University of Birmingham and before that the National Lottery Community Fund. She loves the natural world and is concerned about environmental issues. She joined the Levine Family Foundation in April 2023, and is excited to be working with colleagues and organisations which support ocean conversation and restoration.

J. Charles Fox

Advisor

Chuck is the Executive Director for Oceans 5 and coordinates on behalf of its Partners and Members. Prior to joining Oceans 5, he served in senior positions with federal and state governments, as well as nonprofit and philanthropic organizations. Chuck is viewed as a thoughtful, results-oriented manager with 30 years of experience in the field.

Baroness Bryony Worthingon

Advisor

Bryony has worked for over 20 years on environmental issues including a focus on climate change and energy. She has worked in variety of fields including not-for-profit/charity, energy industry, civil service, philanthropy and since 2011 as a law maker in the House of Lords.

We actively engage with a wide range of environmental organisations, community groups and other trusts and foundations.

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