3 Maldives resorts announce a new Marine biologist appointments

05 September, 2022

A three luxury Maldives resorts has announced a new Marine biologist appointments. Meet women working towards a greener future at Constance Moofushi, Kuredu Island resort and Coco Bodu Hithi.

Explore reefs in Constance Moofushi with Elena Milanes

Get ready for an unforgettable marine journey as you dive into the world of Constance Moofushi in the Maldives, guided by the passionate marine biologist, Elena Milanesi. Join us as we take you through a narrative of exploration, from the shores of Italy to the vibrant coral reefs of the Indian Ocean.

Elena's odyssey into marine conservation began in the picturesque south of Italy, where she volunteered at a sea turtle rescue center. Her hands-on experience instilled a deep appreciation for the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. This initial encounter with marine life propelled her on a path of exploration, leading her to the enchanting shores of the Maldives, where she studied the intricate coral reef ecosystem.

The Mediterranean wasn't the only sea that captured Elena's heart. Her thirst for knowledge and dedication to marine conservation took her to Montenegro, Mexico, French Polynesia, and South Africa, where she delved into the world of marine mammals and different species of sharks. Each destination became a classroom, and every species a teacher, shaping Elena into the dynamic marine biologist she is today.

Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Sciences and Technology, Elena embarked on research that delved into the effects of ocean warming on various jellyfish species. Her academic pursuits culminated in an international Master's degree in Marine Sciences, during which she undertook a groundbreaking study in French Polynesia. Collaborating with "The Physioshark Project," Elena's research into the stress physiology of neonatal blacktip reef sharks unlocked valuable insights into the challenges faced by these vulnerable creatures.

Elena's quest for knowledge extended far beyond the laboratory. In South Africa, she became a marine biologist and guide, leading daily excursions for shark cage diving and whale watching. Her dual role allowed her to educate people about the vital role of keystone species in maintaining marine ecosystem health. Additionally, Elena contributed to a pioneering research project focused on the Broadnose sevengill sharks, aiming to create a comprehensive database to aid future conservation efforts.

Beyond her academic and research endeavors, Elena is a devoted diver and skilled underwater photographer. Her three PADI diving licenses and over 70 dives serve as a testament to her intimate connection with the ocean's depths.

Now, Elena has embarked on her latest adventure as the marine biologist at Constance Moofushi in the Maldives. She invites guests to join her at Manta Bar, every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday at 10 a.m. for an enchanting journey to explore the treasures of Constance Moofushi's house reef. This initiative goes beyond exploration – it's a chance to give back to Mother Nature while on holiday.

Constance Moofushi isn't just a luxurious getaway; it's a haven that embraces sustainable practices and eco-conscious actions. As you embark on your underwater escapade with Elena, you're contributing to the resort's commitment to preserving the delicate marine ecosystem.

We believe that Elena Milanesi's presence at Constance Moofushi promises not only to enrich guests' experiences but also to contribute significantly to the ongoing efforts to safeguard our oceans for generations to come.

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Meet Lauren Kennedy, the Marine biologist of Coco Bodu Hithi

Coco Bodu Hithi is thrilled to welcome the resort's new Marine Biologist from Ayrshire, Scotland- Lauren Kennedy.

Lauren graduated with her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Marine Biology at the University of Glasgow. She has worked for environmental consultancies in Scotland and has also taken Marine Research Assistant roles in Egypt and Fiji, where she learned a variety of survey techniques and research skills which has been useful in her current role here at the island.

“Some of my other experience has involved working with a marine conservation charity on Arran, a beautiful Scottish island. I previously collected data to explore the abundance of commercially important shellfish within the local protected area and ‘No Take Zone’, where fishing is prohibited. During this time, I also worked in the marine education centre, teaching guests about local marine life, and running trips to explore rock pools. I believe this experience will prove to be very valuable in my new role on Bodu Hithi!” says Lauren. READ FULL STORY

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Meet Maria, Marine biologist at Kuredu

Meet María Antonia Izurieta, the new sea turtle biologist and guest educator for Olive Ridley Project in Lhaviyani Atoll, based at the Kuredu Marine Center.

Maria grew up in Ecuador with adventurous parents and she’s been a nature lover for as long as she remember. Before and after high school, María volunteered extensively in various nature projects and after her gap year it was clear to her that she wanted to pursue a career to protect and study nature. In 2018 she enrolled in Universidad San Francisco de Quito to study biology.

In the summer of 2021, María completed an internship with Conservation International in the Galapagos Islands. Since then, she has been going back and forth to the Galapagos Islands for several research projects with marine mega fauna. She did her thesis project there too, analyzing the juvenile blacktip shark population in a nursery ground with Dr. Alex Hearn.

If you are spending your holidays at Kuredu, you can pop in to the Marine Center to see Maria and even join her le turtle snorkelling activities:

Turtle Search – Go on a guided tour of Kuredu Lagoon and House Reef and search for our resident turtles. Learn how to take identification photos, identify individual turtles and discover the different sea turtle behaviours.for exciting and memorabon turtle search tours amongst he Maldives’ largest community of Green Sea Turtles. Activity lasts for about 2.5 hours and includes pictures of turtle encounters.

Caves Half-Day Snorkel Trip with Marine Biologist – Go on a guided tour of Kuredu Caves and search for the resident turtles. Learn how to take identification photos, identify individual turtles and discover the different sea turtle behaviours. Activity lasts for about 2.5 hours and includes pictures of turtle encounters.

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