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Our Team
Founder & Executive Director
Kaitlin Krause
Kaitlin "Kate" Krause, a top collegiate swimmer on a full Division 1 scholarship, has leveraged her passion for the sport and profound connection to the water to pioneer a remarkable journey in water safety education. With over 12 years of dedication, she played an instrumental role in building New York City's largest swim school. With over 15 years of competitive swimming experience, she deeply values the personal development and joy that swimming brings.
In 2024, Krause recognizes the privilege inherent in learning to swim and staying safe in and around the water—a luxury still largely accessible only to those with financial means. This stark inequity compels her to advocate for greater inclusivity in water safety education. Krause believes it is our responsibility to pass on this essential knowledge to future generations, filling the gaps left by those who lacked such opportunities and removing all barriers to entry.
As the founder of Rising Tide Effect (RTE), Krause has significantly impacted water safety by imparting crucial skills to hundreds and educating thousands on staying safe in and around water. Her mission is to serve those least likely to be served, collaborating to create enduring positive evolution in water safety culture. She aims to teach people to fish rather than simply feeding them, believing that water safety education should be a fundamental right for everyone.
Krause also co-founded the Water Safety Coalition with other pioneering humanitarian advocates. This coalition aims to save lives and foster inclusivity in recreational water activities. Acknowledged for her expertise, Krause has been appointed to key positions addressing lifeguard shortages and enhancing water safety efforts in New York City and New York State.
In addition to her work with RTE, Krause has worked on international water safety projects, sharing her expertise and expanding her impact globally. Through her leadership and collaborative efforts, Kate Krause continues to champion the cause of water safety, ensuring that everyone has the knowledge and skills to interact with the water safely.
Director of People & Finance
Rachel Llewellyn
Rachel brings a multifaceted background to Rising Tide Effect, including certifications in massage therapy, movement therapy, FST therapy, and roles as a labor support doula and holistic wellness coach. Originating from Canada, Rachel has made her home in a rural coastal area of Nicaragua, which helps RTE enrich it’s international perspective.
Before joining Rising Tide Effect, she led the Health and Wellness department at a local after-school program, where her path crossed with Kaitlin from RTE. Motivated by the coastal community's urgent need for water safety, Rachel leveraged her role at RTE to launch a comprehensive swimming and safety education initiative in 2021. This program, which she spearheaded, includes a teacher training program, a 10-level swimming course, and Red Cross certifications, all of which are still benefiting the community today.
Now, as the Director of People & Finance for RTE, Rachel applies her extensive background in health, wellness, and program development. Her passion for holistic health is a cornerstone of her work, ensuring RTE's operations are infused with her dedication to well-being and community safety.
Head of Digital Growth & Development
Brianna Hessberger
Brianna got her career start in the media industry in Toronto, Canada, where she was able to work for some of the largest companies in Canadian Television. After a few years, she travelled to Europe where she found her new home in Berlin, Germany.
After searching for a change in careers, Brianna found herself in the heart of the "Silicon Valley of Europe" working as a Product Manager and Agile Coach in the Berlin startup scene. After ten years in the startup world, Brianna moved back to her home country, eager to discover her next opportunity, which is how she met the team at Rising Tide Effect.
Brianna's expertise in driving the success of tech startups, her experience in growing and scaling companies, and her aptitude for business agility are all skills that support Rising Tide in its growth efforts today.
Brianna joined the team in March of 2024, and is eager to see just how many waves Rising Tide can make on its mission for water safety and education. She spends most days focused on how to grow, market, and use technology to widen the impact of RTE's mission.
Grant Strategy & Program Coordinator
James Torrez
At Rising Tide Effect, James combines his experience in policy, swimming, and advocacy work.
James’ background both in swimming and advocacy work makes him an essential part of RTE’s fundraising efforts.
He previously graduated from George Washington University and served as the Policy and Program Associate at NLHA.
As the Grant Strategy and Program Coordinator, James’ works to expand RTE’s grant and fundraising relationships.
Administration, Events Support & Program Coordination
Majo Lopez
With a robust history in competitive swimming and a strong academic foundation, Mariajose (aka Majo) brings a unique blend of athletic expertise and educational insight to every role she undertakes. Originally from Mexico, she moved to New York to pursue her undergraduate studies at St. Francis College in Brooklyn, where she excelled as a Division I swimmer and graduated in May 2023 with a double major in Exercise and Movement Science and Health Promotion and Science. Building on her academic and athletic achievements, Mariajose earned her Master’s degree in Exercise and Movement Science with a concentration in People with Special Needs from Long Island University in Brooklyn in June 2024.
As a former college swimmer with over 16 years dedicated to the sport, Mariajose understands the profound impact of physical activity on personal development, particularly for individuals with diverse needs. Leveraging her lifelong passion for sports and specialized academic focus, Mariajose continues to connect with diverse communities, promoting the benefits of swimming and fostering a supportive environment for all.