Rob Stewart

Rob Stewart was a distinguished Canadian biologist, conservationist, filmmaker, and photographer whose passion for marine life inspired a global audience. Hailing from Toronto, Stewart began his underwater photography journey at just 13 years old. By 18, he had already become a certified scuba instructor and pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biology, with studies spanning Ontario, Jamaica, and Kenya.

Before creating his groundbreaking film, *Sharkwater* (2007), Stewart worked for four years as the chief photographer for Canadian Wildlife Federation magazines, undertaking expeditions to some of the world's most remote locations and accumulating extensive underwater experience. His photographs gained international recognition and appeared in various media outlets.

During an assignment in the Galapagos Islands, Stewart uncovered illegal shark longlining, prompting him to shift from photography to filmmaking to raise awareness. At 22, he embarked on a four-year journey across 12 countries that culminated in *Sharkwater*. The film evolved from a stunning visual narrative into a gripping exploration of corruption and environmental injustice, as Stewart and his crew faced life-threatening challenges, including serious diseases.

*Sharkwater* premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, making history with the largest opening weekend for a Canadian documentary and winning over 35 awards worldwide. Stewart's accompanying book, *Sharkwater: An Odyssey to Save the Planet*, was released in 2007, and he continued to advocate for conservation through public speaking and his charity, United Conservationists. A prominent media figure, Stewart was recognized as a top contributor to Toronto's improvement in a 2011 survey. He was working on his second film, *Revolution*, slated for release in 2013, which aimed to inspire further environmental advocacy.