Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation

“[A] student will subconsciously limit their abilities simply because they do not see other people that look like themselves doing a job or working in a career they are interested in” (Brooks).

Diversity in people is also diversity in ideas and mindsets, and effective conservation requires that all voices be heard in these unprecedented times of climate change. Women, and in particular women of color, have long been underrepresented in scientific disciplines, and this is also true in the world of marine science. When people see role models that they can relate to in certain fields and roles, they are much more likely to pursue such roles themselves, and believe that it’s possible for them to do so. Educators in particular play a significant role in inspiring students and community members and supporting them in their goals (Bettinger). My film capstone project will tell the stories of four women building up the next generation of conservationists in community stewardship, scientific diving, and conservation research, and supporting the diversity of experiences and ideas that they each bring to their fields.

Please see media created for this project here:

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzoGwSeVY3I

Website - https://www.projectsalacia.com/protectors-of-the-sea