Kim Baldwin: Director, Marine Spatial Information Solutions & Dr. Kim Baldwin Training Academy (Barbados)

What part of your work makes you feel proud or hopeful?

One of the things that makes me feel most proud—and hopeful—is seeing my students thrive. Watching these women across the Caribbean step confidently into GIS, drone operations & leadership roles is incredibly powerful. Although these spaces are often described as “male-dominated,” but what I see instead is curiosity, skill, pride in good work & real determination. Gender has never been the defining factor—commitment & passion are! Knowing that I may have played even a small part in supporting these women on their journeys truly touches my heart. Their success is what keeps me going

What support, opportunities, or conditions have helped you (or others) succeed?

The biggest factor in my success has been the people who believed in me—especially mentors who supported me long before I understood my own potential. One of the most important people in my career is Professor Hazel Oxenford. From the moment I first arrived in Barbados, she believed in me. For more than 25 years, she has supported me day & night—as a mentor, a guide, a constant source of encouragement, and today as one of my closest friends. Her leadership within the University of the West Indies & the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute shaped not only my scientific path, but also how I show up for other young scientists today.

Over the years, I’ve learned that science succeeds when we work together—sharing knowledge, lifting each other up & learning from one another. Having someone believe in you early can change everything… I try to carry that lesson forward by mentoring and supporting other women, especially in emerging spaces like GIS + Drones. Building strong networks of women—rooted in trust, generosity & shared purpose—creates a sense of sisterhood that strengthens not just individual careers, but the future of science itself!

What message would you share with girls considering a career in science or fisheries, especially those who may doubt they belong?

Stay curious, trust your instincts & definitely don’t wait to feel “ready” before stepping forward. Science needs many ways of thinking, many voices, and many paths—not just one version of success. Seek out communities who support you, challenge you & believe in you—especially when you’re still learning to believe in yourself. And whenever you can, be that support for others. Science is stronger when women lift each other up!