What first drew you to science, fisheries, or the ocean?
Being born in Suriname the first connection with nature / science was through the immense rainforest cover (93%) and the Amazon waters that flow through the country. I think I was always drawn to science and math, I still remember the rule of physics the law of conservation of energy. I think this can be applied to many conservation related work, meaning that if we destroy one tree, this leads to a ripple effect of a whole ecosystem being impacted.
What part of your work makes you feel proud or hopeful?
My goal is to keep working on the nexus of finance, science, policy in sustainable development. Science is extremely important in this regard, but we need to connect science with the other pillars (policy and finance) to be able to achieve those breakthroughs. I believe we have all the ingredients in the region, but we need to be able to find the right balance, the right timing and momentum, and the right blend of partnerships and collaboration.
What are some of the most significant challenges women or girls face in science in your context?
I think there is still a general misconception or stereotyping of the role of women in society in general. We now see more and more women in science related studies at universities and throughout, but the disproportionate participation in science of boys and men is actually what is a concern. If there is no (equal) participation of men and they are left out of the discussions, how will men ever understand what our contribution is in science?
What support, opportunities, or conditions have helped you succeed?
I think being surrounded or attract likeminded individuals as role models. There are so many amazing individuals in science in our region. I am constantly learning from others, and seeing new heroes pop up in our communities. Seeing that you are not alone in an endeavour truly keeps me motivated and strive for excellence.
What is one way organizations like GCFI could help women and girls feel more welcome, supported, or visible in fisheries and marine science?
I see the role as advocay and awareness, promoting and showcasing the work of women and girls in science. Communication of what others have done and are working on can remove or decrease the barriers for others who follow suit. No one is alone in this, and we can all work together.
Is there a woman in science, locally or globally, whose story has inspired you?
There are so many in the Caribbean region. If I had to name people I will be inspired by some names from my home country: Monique Pool (a CNN nominee for her work on the rehabilitation of sloths), the amazing group of women from the Suriname Foundation for Forest Management and Production Control (Sarah Crabbe, Consuela Paloeng, Mercedes Hardjoprajitno, Valentien Moe Soe Let (and so many others), who have delivered the first ever Forest Reference Emission Level (FREL) report to the UNFCCC in 2018, established a historical benchmark for carbon emissions (2000–2015) from deforestation and degradation. This report was really an effort of the local knowledge with this amazing group of women (and others who contributed).
What message would you share with girls considering a career in science or fisheries, especially those who may doubt they belong?
I would say science can take many shapes and forms. It doesn`t mean we need to get all dirty and muddy or be calculating complicated mathematical equations. Find what interests you, and be persistent and do not give up! 