Scuba Diving with Sharks: Marine Conservation Research in Fiji

The magical coral reefs of the Fiji Islands became my classroom for 3 weeks. Scuba diving with sharks, rays, turtles, and fish, I conducted survey research in Pacific Harbour, Fiji through the Klemm Fellowship. Working alongside local shark researchers and volunteers from around the world, I collected data on shark and fish populations to inform conservation policies. Shark populations are declining globally, largely due to overfishing and the fin trade. As one of the top predators in the food chain, sharks maintain a critical role in the marine ecosystem. The goal of this project is to generate quality data on the shark populations in Fiji, and to increase shark awareness in local communities. Through surveying and tagging sharks, restoring mangrove habitats, and working with local villagers, I learned how conservation is an intersectional team effort - intertwined in community, culture, education, and values. In the process, I learned how to breathe underwater, cook a traditional Fijian Lovo, made friends from all over the world, swam alongside bull sharks, surfed, shifted my perspectives, and overcame a lot of fears.... and diarrhea! The wonders of traveling. Join me in this fun discussion on my wild Fiji experience.