Conservation and Storytelling
I have always found fulfillment in educating others about the beauty and importance of biomes like coral reefs and wetlands or endangered species. As I learned more about the natural world through SCUBA diving and volunteering, my commitment to natural habitat and endangered species conservation only grew stronger. I want to transition into using my storytelling and marketing skills to get people invested in the preservation of wildlife and wild environments. I’m never happier than when I see the light come on in someone’s eyes when they find their personal connection to marine or wildlife conservation, and the idea of leaving behind a legacy of passion for wild places and conservation of wild species feels more like a calling than a job.
Kuwala Girls School
In 2025, I was approached by Kuwala Girls School based in Winnipeg, Manitoba and Malawi, Africa to help create a marketing plan that would draw donors, including an ongoing social media plan. The school is home to its own self-sustaining composting farm, its own solar, and a state-of-the-art STEM lab for girls. Working remotely across time zones with individuals in Malawi, including students, faculty, and school staff, we created a series of social short-form vertical videos which will roll out throughout 2026.
Social Media for Good
Social media can be a powerful force for change. Through volunteer opportunities in the U.S., Canada, and Africa, I’ve found ways to use my skills to elevate issues from endangered species to women’s rights and education.
Save the Shoebill
Shoebill storks are endangered wading birds indigenous to Africa. It’s estimated their numbers are fewer than 5,000 worldwide, largely due to reputation problems. Because of their odd appearance and intense stare, shoebills are perceived as bad luck, and many are killed or poached per year. I started an Instagram account highlighting the species’ softer side — they mate for life, are so docile they’ll lead humans to their nests, and raise chicks tenderly each year — and after a video on my account reached more than 100,000 views, I was approached to manage social media for a Uganda-based organization advocating for the species. That account sees an average of more than 200,000 views per month and has helped raise funds for the purchase of two acres of land in Uganda for a sanctuary.
Reef Renewal Bonaire
Just add water. 🪸🫧🌊 In January 2026, I got certified as a Reef Renewal Diver with Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire. During the course, in a few hours' classroom time, we learned why it's so important to preserve coral reefs, as well as how the foundation is working to help. The three dives taught us to clean coral trees, like the ones pictured, to hang and tie propagated staghorn coral, and to outplant reef-ready pieces on bamboo structures. Coral reefs contribute to biodiversity, create a foundation for many other forms of marine life, and boost tourism for divers and snorkelers on Bonaire.
As a communications professional, I spend a lot of time telling stories. The opportunity to put my hands on the pulse of our planet only strengthened my commitment to use my skills to protect and preserve this planet we're fortunate enough to call home. This planet is showing off, and I'm just grateful I got a front-row seat.
NASA Volunteer Work
In 2019, I began volunteering with NASA as a solar system ambassador, educating kids and adults about the history of manned spaceflight, initiatives in environmental mapping and analysis, and what’s next in the field. I loved answering questions about the International Space Station in particular and drew upon the experiences of astronauts like Chris Hadfield and Scott Kelly to showcase what it will be like as humans venture further from our home planet.
