Shark Ally Ambassador: Michaela Palmer

Kicking off the very first “Shark Ally Ambassador” Spotlight series, is one of the Shark Allies Ambassador program’s founding members, Michaela Palmer. Michaela is a data scientists by trade, shark conservationist and educator by calling. While living on Oahu makes it easy for her to encounter sharks on a daily basis (and look extremely graceful while doing so!), Michaela dedicates her platform and voice to make shark conservation accessible for shark lovers around the world, no matter their age, location or skillset.

SC: Take us on your career journey, how did you get into Data Science, and what set you up to have the correct skillset? 

MP: I did my undergraduate education at UC Berkeley in Earth System Science and Geography. Throughout college, I wanted to find a way to support ocean conservation using technology. I discovered the power of geospatial information science (GIS) and how it could be applied to the environmental field. I took statistics and programming courses to hone my technical skill set. I would highly recommend learning Python to anyone. It is such a powerful language that can be applied to any field you're passionate about. I currently work in environmental engineering, performing data analytics and modeling for water resources and coastal resilience. I am also currently pursuing a MS at Johns Hopkins University, where I plan to focus my research on using geospatial analyses to inform shark conservation policies.

SC: You are a part of the founding group of Shark Allies Ally Ambassadors. What made you want to join the team? What shark conservation projects are you drawn to? 

MP: Outside of my job, I try to do as much as I can to support shark conservation. I have been a long time follower of SharkAllies and was excited to support the cause. I think the recently launched “Shark Free” label program and educational materials on how to avoid shark products is incredibly informative and effective. 

SC: What do you think is the benefit of using your own following for education, conservation news and action? 

MP: Everyone has a unique and powerful voice in education and conservation. I think we can all reach different audiences through various platforms. It's incredibly important to promote diverse voices, equity, and inclusion within ourselves and in the scientific and conservation community.

photo by Danny Lomas (@danny_mako)

SC: Aside from Shark Allies, you are an ambassador to a handful of ocean-friendly companies, including our friends at Maya Bleu! How do you vet each brand you promote, and why is it important to highlight those doing good? 

MP: I try to be wary of greenwashing and find brands to work with that are ethical and sustainable in both their products and business practices. Having clear and transparent communication with brands is important. Consumers have a lot of power with their purchases. We can all do our part  by supporting companies that are truly doing good!

SC: Adding even more to your resume, you are an ambassador for fellow organization Sharks4Kids, focused on fostering the next generation of ocean conservationists. Why do you feel it is important to give them a voice?

MP: Sharks4Kids is a wonderful organization that I've had the privilege of working with. I truly believe that positive education for our children is one of the most powerful tools in changing the world for the better. If the children of today have respect and understanding for sharks instead of fear, then the leaders of the future will too.

SC: Hawaii, and Oahu specifically, is your playground. What is the best part about living in paradise?

MP: I love the diversity of species in Hawaii. With over 25,000 unique species, Hawaii is one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet. I always love shark diving on the North Shore in particular! 

SC: Take us on your first shark encounter.

MP: The first shark I (unintentionally) dove with was a great white shark off Northern California. I was freezing and I only saw a vague shape, but it was definitely unforgettable.

photo by Tanner Mansell (@tannerunderwater)

SC: In your opinion, what is the best way to help conserve sharks and the ocean? Do you have any tips on starting? 

MP: Education is crucial. By educating yourself on the issues (such as commercial fishing, bycatch, shark products, shark finning, etc.) you can find effective ways to help. You can also help teach others about sharks and inspire them to get involved as well. Many people think that unless you live near an ocean or have some sort of big online presence or social influence, that you can’t make a difference in the fight to protect sharks. However, every voice supporting a cause is important!

SC: What is your hope for the future? How can we can make steps to achieve it?

MP: I wish everyone knew about the critical importance sharks play in our ocean's health. Sharks are a great indicator for ocean health because they help keep the ecosystem balanced. We depend on oceans for many crucial ecosystem services, including carbon storage, oxygen generation, food, and income generation. The importance of sharks and the ocean to global climate cannot be underestimated.

SC: What is one piece of advice you would like to give to your younger self, or for the younger generation wanting to start a career in conservation or have a passion to volunteer?  

MP: Growth and progress in life is not linear. We all experience setbacks in life along our journey. Understand that challenges are opportunities for growth! My advice for the younger generation (or anyone) passionate about conservation that want to begin their journey: Find where your passions and talents lie and apply them to the cause. Conservation is not just wildlife biology; it can be politics, economics, awareness, education, technology, social justice etc. Conservation needs dedicated people within all disciplines of life! People make the biggest contributions to conservation when they enjoy what they are doing.

To keep up with Michaela, be sure to follow her on social media at @mer.michaela.

Dive into the important work Sharks4Kids accomplishes fostering the next generation of conservationists.

Want to become a Shark Allies Ally Ambassador like Michaela? Apply here!