Brendan Keoni Kattil

Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?

I am the coral reef monitor here at MICS, as we know our country is made up of small atolls completely surrounded by the great Pacific Ocean, being impacted by climate change and warming ocean temperatures it is important that we strive to sustain the durability of our coastal reefs. With the help of many of our brothers and sisters across the Pacific, I am able to monitor and send data to our colleagues for us to determine the health and future of our corals. 

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I moved to Oregon to pursue Sports Medicine when one day I realized that it wasn't what I truly wanted. I became home sick, and having a sister who has always been a part of the Marine Biology field, she helped me realize my true purpose in this life and that is to be who I am, a young man from the Marshall Islands, and live my life by giving back to my home and my people. It was only right for me to come back. The ocean was always waiting for me, even when I was at Canon Beach, Oregon. Coming home was the best choice I ever made for myself, and being in this field has been nothing more than humbling. Being able to meet and learn from different experts and students of this field, made me realize that no matter how high one's rank can be, collective thoughts and ideas between all persons of marine science and conservation will ensure our work in protecting our homes and oceans, will be done with great success.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

My family has always been very involved in conservation here in the RMI and I was always around to listen, watch, and even join in on their work. What encouraged me most was their passion to ensure the persevation of our culture and especially our islands. With team effort throughout our atolls, the future of our country is bright.

What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?

One of the many facsinating projects I've had the privilege to be a part of is the Super Reefs project. We have conduct dives to find specific coral species and testing each colonies under heat stress to find which are more heat resilient. It's amazing to me because with the amount of coral bleaching I have seen here in Majuro, this project gives me faith that we can and we will survive.

How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?

I was chosen to be a part of the exploration workshop and showed my interest to my advisors that I would like to be a part of the journey to bring back more knowledge on the deep-sea habitats of the Marshall Islands.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I don't have much of the science skills, but I do have the knowledge and the will to take in everything that I can learn for me to be able to help my people and my team imrpove our country and our ocean in many ways for the sake of our own lives, and those who come after us as well.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy playing music with my family and being out in the water whether its canoe paddling, diving, or a simple picnic at the islets. Sports, the ocean and music have always been key parts of my life.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

Collective ideas between all persons in the marine science and conservation field matters. No matter the rank, every say makes a difference. Teamwork as citizens of humanity will make the future brighter not only for us islanders, but for the entire world as well. There will always be something new to learn and always respect those who came before you. With their help, you will have the proper guidance to determine what is best for you, your country and your future.