What first drew you to science, fisheries, or the ocean?
I grew up in a family of fishermen. Both of my grandparents were fishermen, and my father was as well. I am from a fishing community in the Turks and Caicos, and the ocean was simply part of everyday life. I was also part of the local sailing club, which deepened my connection to the sea from a young age. My introduction to the science side of the ocean came when two college professors from Keene State College visited my high school and introduced us to coral reef monitoring. That experience changed everything for me. I loved it. It was the first time I saw the ocean not only as a way of life, but as a system that needed to be understood and protected. From there, I became certified as an Open Water scuba diver and continued diving after high school. I later became a PADI Divemaster, which was a tremendously historic achievement for me, as at the time no other Turks and Caicos Islander woman had entered this field. I was then awarded a government scholarship to pursue a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Sciences in Oxford, England, which allowed me to formally combine my lived experience of the ocean with scientific training. From that point on, I knew this path was not just a career, but a responsibility to the place and community that raised me.
What part of your work makes you feel proud or hopeful?
For the past three years, I have been conducting sea turtle monitoring on the remote island of East Caicos, one of the last true wilderness areas in the insular Caribbean, in partnership with the Marine Conservation Society. The work is rigorous and often takes place in harsh and unpredictable environmental conditions, which makes every successful season feel deeply meaningful. One of the things that gives me the most hope is seeing the recovery of species that were once in serious decline. I am particularly encouraged that green turtles are no longer classified as endangered globally. Knowing that collective conservation efforts can produce real, measurable results keeps me motivated. I am also proud of the steps my Government is taking to strengthen wildlife protection and environmental management more broadly. Seeing policy, science, and community awareness begin to align gives me real optimism for the future of Turks and Caicos’ ecosystems.
What are some of the most significant challenges women or girls face in science in your context?
One of the most significant challenges women and girls face in science in my context is access to opportunity. There are very few women in my field, and even fewer Black women. This gap often stems from limited exposure to science careers, lack of mentorship, and fewer pathways into technical or field-based environmental work. I have been incredibly fortunate to have mentors who invested in me and to have received strong support throughout my journey. However, I do not believe my experience should be the exception. It should be the standard. Women and girls, especially those from small island communities and underrepresented backgrounds, deserve equal access to opportunities, training, and leadership pathways in science. When access improves, representation improves. And when representation improves, science becomes stronger, more inclusive, and more reflective of the communities it is meant to serve.
What support, opportunities, or conditions have helped you succeed?
Mentorship has been one of the most important factors in my success. Having guidance from professionals already working in my field helped me understand the technical expectations, navigate challenges, and build confidence in my abilities. Seeing people who had already built careers in environmental science made the path feel tangible and achievable. Aligning myself with organisations such as the Marine Conservation Society, RSPB, and Turks and Caicos National Trust that actively support early career scientists has also been critical. These spaces provide access to training, professional networks, research opportunities, and platforms to share knowledge. They create environments where emerging scientists can grow, contribute meaningfully, and develop leadership skills. Together, mentorship and institutional support create the conditions where talent can thrive, rather than being limited by access or exposure.
What is one way organizations like GCFI could help women and girls feel more welcome, supported, or visible in fisheries and marine science?
One meaningful way organisations like GCFI could support women and girls is by creating structured mentorship and exposure programmes that connect early-career women with established professionals. Representation matters. Seeing women leading and succeeding in these fields makes these careers feel attainable. GCFI could also expand access to training, scholarships, and field placements, especially for women and girls from small island and underrepresented communities. Highlighting women’s achievements through conferences, publications, and media would further increase visibility and help build a more inclusive future for marine science.
Is there a woman in science, locally or globally, whose story has inspired you?
Yes. One of my biggest inspirations is my mother, Rockell Cox. While she is not in science, the values she instilled in me have shaped who I am professionally and personally. She taught me perseverance, kindness, and humility. Those qualities have grounded me throughout my career and helped me navigate challenging spaces. I am also deeply inspired by my mentor, Kathleen McNary, a fellow Environmental Scientist. She has provided invaluable guidance, technical support, and honest counselling throughout my career. Having someone who is willing to share knowledge, open doors, and offer encouragement has made a significant difference in my journey in science.
What message would you share with girls considering a career in science or fisheries, especially those who may doubt they belong?
Keep going. You belong in these spaces, and you should never doubt that. Science needs you. Your perspective, your experiences, and your voice make science stronger, more innovative, and more inclusive. There is space for you here, even if you do not always see people who look like you. Stay curious, stay determined, and do not let doubt decide your future.
