I had the incredible opportunity to run my own business for over a decade with three other co-founders, Project Everest Ventures. We empowered Australian university students to collaboratively create social enterprises within remote international communities. I absolutely loved it. It aligned perfectly with my belief in the transformative power of individuals to make a positive impact in the world. An opportunity for people to recognise their own potential for change, while finding a community of like-minded individuals.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 brought our international operations to a halt due to travel restrictions. It was a difficult situation to navigate as it was not the product or service that failed; it was circumstances outside our control. This pause forced a moment to reflect on my identity outside of Project Everest. During this introspection, I was reminded of something significant, which is telling by my first tattoo, which I got when I was 17, which reads: ‘Fight for animal rights’. It's always been really important to me, and something I wanted to get closer to.

A role came up at AMCS as a Digital Communications Campaigner,  it was something that I had already been doing at Project Everest, albeit through a different model. AMCS  were in  conversation with the community, not talking at them, and really genuinely looking at how to work with all the forces possible, including individuals - to create change, and enabling them to do exactly that. 

So it's like I ended up where I was meant to be!

Two things come to mind. The first is climate change. The biggest threat to marine species, and life as we know it.

The second is the disconnect between individuals and their own power. However, I don’t mean that the onus is then on the individual. At AMCS, we bring together policymakers, researchers, and community members - bridging the gap between action and science. The impact of digital petitions and emails is often underestimated. When our campaigners present a list of names (a petition) to ministers in support of AMCS policy recommendations, that has weight. Or when we send emails to ministers, that is going to real people who read those responses. These digital actions people can take, have a tangible impact. I don’t know if people are aware,  the government are required to consider those email submissions made during public consultation periods! Just because it’s easy to do, doesn't mean it’s not impactful. Individuals have the ability to make a difference, because when it’s a priority for Australians, it’s a priority for the government.

We recently had an incredible outcome working alongside Save Our Marine Life on a significant project for Macquarie Island. Our aim is to expand the marine sanctuary on the island, which is home to a number of endemic species. We called upon our amazing supporters to reach out to their local MPs and invite them to a crucial report presentation in Canberra. The response was overwhelming!

The room was packed with attendees, including Minister Plibersek, who listened to our report presentation. A simple online action, like adding your name to a website, can make a difference to who is in a room in Canberra. The government is now considering tripling the size of the marine sanctuary on Macquarie Island. 

This success story is just one of many. Seeing the tangible outcomes of our efforts, coupled with an exceptional team, fills me with pride and optimism.

Align yourself, or your business with charities or organisations that really strike a chord with your purpose, whether that is marine conservation or otherwise. I know it’s cliche, but with a shared purpose actions are strengthened. You’ll feel more at peace, living true to your values. 

If businesses have the capacity - look at direct contributions and, similarly with individuals, look at becoming a Sea Guardian, or volunteering your time. All of it matters, picking up plastic pollution you see on the beach, using the GoodFish Guide to source sustainable seafood, researching critically who you're voting for in elections. And don't underestimate sharing digital actions on social media.

The most important thing is to just start . You don’t need to be a scientist to get involved - the most powerful movements are community lead.

You could volunteer your time, there are rallies, events, film screenings, meetings with MPs, sign writing opportunities, so many places to start. For students, there are pathways to intern at many marine conservation organisations. Sign up to get digital newsletters to be kept up to date. If you are privileged enough to have your divers license - make sure you visit our special places like Ningaloo, Exmouth Gulf, or our Great Barrier Reef. Connect with the locals and marine life in your area, know that many of the species in Australia are found nowhere else in the world! The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on Earth, we are privileged to be able to enjoy it, and it is our responsibility to protect it. We need a healthy ocean for a healthy future.

Signing an online petition, adding your name to send an email,  attending an event, volunteering your time or resources - know that it goes a long way. You’re protecting our marine wildlife not only for our generation, but for generations to come.