What first drew you to science, fisheries, or the ocean?
Doing a work which brings change in the life of less privileged, vulnerable strata of the society, secure food for health and livelihoods. A domain where there is huge potential for women to thrive.
What part of your work makes you feel proud or hopeful?
The tools and best practices that came to fruition, and reduce the drudgery of women in post-harvest fisheries. From experience interventions initiated within hardship, challenging times and unconducive environment, have been the most impactful in driving benefits for the community.
What are some of the most significant challenges women or girls face in science in your context?
Downplaying the potential in us. The conducive mentorship. Unequal opportunities compared to male counterparts.
What support, opportunities, or conditions have helped you (or others) succeed despite these challenges?
I have been fortunate in the early years of my career as junior professional, to benefit from the support of someone who can be acknowledged as one of the best coaches. Knowing whom to rely on confidently for knowledge and experience sharing and advice when things seem to go in a not expected direction is critical.
What is one way organizations like GCFI could help women and girls feel more welcome, supported, or visible in fisheries and marine science?
Support to a programme of mentorship by Champions (women champions). An excellence programme which rewards (not necessarily financially, but even simple
Is there a woman in science, locally or globally, whose story has inspired you?
I was very much impressed by the level of dedication, energy/dynamism, wealth of knowledge and experience of the Late Shandrika Sharma of the International Collective in Support of Fishworkers. The contribution of this unwavering advocate of small-scale fisheries and women especially, to bringing to fruition the Small-scale fisheries guidelines and the Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure was undisputable. She died in 2014 in the Malaysia Airlines plane crash on her way back from a fisheries-related meeting at FAO HQ. Regionally, Ms Dalila Aldana is my dearly preferred woman scientist. Her commendable work on Queen conch marked my first introduction (in 2018) in this
region.
What message would you share with girls considering a career in science or fisheries, especially those who may doubt they belong?
Confidence and self-trust are key. Even amidst critically challenging situations, trust that only the sky is your limit. Never doubt, even not thinking of likelihood of a failure. Be focused on fulfillment of duties.