Michael Topolovac

Region:
North America
Scholar Date:
1987 to 1988

Michael is a serial entrepreneur who hacks away at underwater imaging whenever he gets the chance. He was first exposed to the diving world in high-school when he got certified to drive the submarine he was building for his science fair project. While his career as a submariner was short lived, it paved the way for him being awarded the Rolex Our World – Underwater Scholarship which introduced him to UW photography and gave him a chance to learn from some of the greats such as David Doublet and Stan Waterman. From that experience the idea for Light & Motion emerged which was subsequently started from his dorm room at Stanford. Ten years after its founding, Michael left Light & Motion (where he still serves as Chairman of the Board), and founded venture backed Arena Solutions, a Software as a Service company who’s solution helps global brands bring their products to market. After recently transitioning out of his role at Arena, Michael is now focused on his third company which is building a global brand around accessible luxury products for women.

Current and Past Scholars :
OW-USS Past Scholars

Sara Shoemaker Lind

Region: North America Scholar Date: 1997 to 1998 Sara has pursued a career in underwater photography and related projects in the last decade since her Scholarship year. She started her own company in 1998 and has

Read More »
OW-USS Past Scholars

Steven Lindfield

Region: Australasia Scholar Date: 2008 to 2009 Steven Lindfield, 23 has been chosen as the Australasian Rolex Scholar for 2008/09. Steve grew up on the Central Coast of NSW, Australia. Living close to the ocean and

Read More »
OW-USS Past Scholars

Adam Ravetch

Region: North America Scholar Date: 1985 Accomplished cinematographer and director, Adam Ravetch believes his year as a Rolex Scholar was a launching pad for his prolific career making wildlife films. His professional achievements include projects with

Read More »