The Marine Biological Association (MBA) is pleased to announce the recipient of this year’s prestigious MBA prize. The prize is awarded annually to recognise outstanding contributions to the field of marine biology and recognises the significant impact that individuals can have in advancing our knowledge of marine ecosystems and their conservation.
Leila Scheltema, who has completed her studies in BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Oceanography received the prize for Outstanding Performance on a Marine Biology Programme for her excellent academic performance at the University of Plymouth.
She said: “I’m so grateful for receiving this award, I have been dreaming about becoming a marine biologist since I was 5 years old! If 5-year-old me could see myself now, she would be over the moon! The MBA is an inspiring community that I am so excited and proud to be part of!”
Leila was presented with a handmade exclusive certificate, 1 year’s free Professional MBA Membership an MBA pin badge and t-shirt at her Graduation Ceremony in July.
Leila, who is currently working as Media and Communications Assistant Manager at The Manta Trust is excited to take on a role as Research Assistant for the Chagos Manta Ray Project with her dissertation supervisor Joanna L. Harris.
In this role, Leila will be focussing on improving illegal catch data collection for effective conservation management for Manta and devil ray populations.
She said: “Although protected in Chagos Archipelago by a vast no-take marine protected area, illegal fishing is common and limited catch recording is a significant barrier to effective management.
This project will increase catch data recording accuracy and efficiency by providing expert training in data collection, species identification, and data management protocols. The data collected through this project will provide crucial information for designing and implementing effective conservation management strategies.”
