Introducing myself and my journal: Whale Sharks, Women, and Maldives

About Me:
I am from Anchorage, Alaska but live on Mandhoo Island in South Ari Atoll, Maldives. The great outdoors is my safe place. Whether it's in the mountains of my hometown, the quiet serenity of a snow-filled forest, or the calm seas of Maldives, this is where I feel at peace. My graduate and professional work has brought me to Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and now Maldives.

Women have a way of making eye contact that tells a thousand stories. It has been those moments of eye contact that gives me goose bumps and keeps me inspired. In my current work, it is my main mantra to ensure that women's voices are included, that women have the opportunity to connect with their natural environment, and that women can find joy in this process.

I hope to learn from this community and look forward to the amazing stories and though-provoking discussions here.

My Passions:
Skiing, free diving, hiking, yoga, cross-cultural connections

My Challenges:
Maldivian chilies, seeing trash collect day after day on the beaches and in the currents of Maldives' waters

My Vision for the Future:
Where all people have the right to self-determine the life they believe in living

My Areas of Expertise:
Women's empowerment, gender and conservation, sustainable development, policy advocacy and analysis, communications and outreach, program development, fundraising/grantsmanship, electronic communication