Alanna Smith
Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?
Having worked with Te Ipukarea Society since 2015, I have been at the forefront of various high impact environmental campaigns, with a particular focus on safeguarding the Cook Islands unique ecosystems. These campaigns have included taking a strong stand against deep sea mining, waste management awareness, seabird monitoring assessments and invasive species predator control efforts.
I have particular interest in working closely with local community groups in environmental education awareness. Empowering the younger generation as the next environmental leaders for the Cook Islands is my most rewarding part my job.
What sparked your initial interest in your career?
I initially wanted a career in sports. But then I spent some time thinking about job opportunities and areas where alot of jobs would be available, and at the time it was in the space of the environment so that's what I ended up studying. From having completed by undergraduate degree in Environmental Management at Otago University I returned back to the Cook Islands and Te Ipukarea Society reached out to me to apply as a project officer. I had never heard of Te Ipukarea Society before, but it was meant to be as I have not left the Society since joining in 2015. Its through TIS that my interest in environmental conservation has stemmed from. I've been fortunate to have the opportunity to work in a variety of environmental project from biodiversity to waste management deep sea mining awareness raising and most importantly working alongside my people in information sharing and education. Im very blessed to be working in a career that has become a part of my lifestyle.
Who influenced oyu or encouraged you the most?
Ive had many mentors having worked across various environmental projects. But the one mentor that has been with me the longest would have to be my previous boss Kelvin Passfield. Kelvin has had a longstanding history working in Cook Islands Marine Resources and Conservation and has a wealth of Regional experience. Kelvin has always believed in me and pushed me out of my comfort zone all the time which has forced me to learn quick!
What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?
How little we know about the deep sea, particularly in Cook Islands waters. What lives in there, let alone what ecosystem services it provides for us which we need to live, makes this ecosystem a priceless space which deserves significant time and independent research to better understand the many mysteries this ecosystem holds.
How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?
Being a local environmental ngo that has interest in deep sea biodiversity, it only made sense that we got involved on this expedition particularly as biodiversity research was going to take place within licensed areas of the Cook Islands EEZ. Im very grateful to be a part of this cruise.
What other jobs led you to your current career?
Te Ipukarea Society has been my first and only job for the past 10 years
What are your degrees and certifications?
Bachelor of Applied Science in Environmental Management - Otago University, Dunedin NZ 2014: Masters in Conservation Biology, Victoria University, Wellington NZ, 2019
What are your hobbies?
Snorkeling in passages and watching Netflix
What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?
Try a career at Te Ipukarea Society, youll be introduced to it all.
