Team

Born and raised in Seychelles, Maria developed a deep connection to the ocean and nature from an early age. Exploring the sea and other islands has always been a dream of hers, driven by a strong curiosity to discover the unique beauty and diversity each island holds. Spending most of her life around the ocean sparked a lasting interest in the marine sphere, which later shaped her academic path. She is a former student of the Seychelles Maritime Academy, where she studied advanced fisheries science and fishing technology.

While completing her dive certification, Maria was captivated by the vibrant colours of the coral reefs and the rich diversity of marine life, further strengthening her desire to work in marine conservation. Eager to gain hands-on experience, she completed a six-month internship on Fregate Island, where she was first introduced to conservation work, focusing primarily on terrestrial ecosystems. She later undertook a three-month internship on D’Arros Island, where she gained greater exposure to marine conservation activities. These experiences deepened her understanding of conservation work and reinforced her passion for pursuing a career in a marine-related field.