In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin interviews Dr. Ayla Hodgson, a marine social scientist and science communicator for the Save Our Seas Foundation. The focus of the conversation is on Isla's experience attending two significant conferences back-to-back: the International Marine Conservation Congress (IMCC) in Cape Town, South Africa, and the European Elasmobranch Society (EAS) conference in Greece.

IMCC Experience

• Purpose of Attendance: Isla attended IMCC to present her research on the management and governance of marine protected areas, as well as to connect with colleagues and project leaders funded by the Save Our Seas Foundation. The conference provided a platform for networking and collaboration.

• Presentation: Isla presented her research for the first time, which was nerve-wracking due to the high-profile audience. She described the experience as intense but rewarding, with valuable discussions following her presentation.

• Networking and Team Building: The conference allowed Isla to meet with over 30 colleagues from the Save Our Seas Foundation, fostering team spirit through activities like a foraging and freediving experience. She emphasized the importance of human dimensions in marine conservation discussions, particularly in the context of social justice and equity.

EAS Conference Experience

• Focus on Elasmobranchs: The EAS conference was smaller and specifically focused on sharks and rays in Europe. Isla's role was primarily to support the Save Our Seas Foundation and engage with project leaders.

• Panel Participation: Isla was invited to be part of a panel on science communication, discussing the importance of public engagement in marine conservation. This panel included diverse perspectives from various fields of science communication.

• Learning Opportunities: Unlike IMCC, where multiple sessions ran concurrently, EAS allowed attendees to stay in one room for all talks, providing a broader understanding of elasmobranch research and conservation efforts.

Overall Reflections

• Emotional and Physical Toll: Isla acknowledged the exhaustion that comes with attending back-to-back conferences but highlighted the uplifting and inspiring nature of these events. They reignited her passion for marine conservation and provided a sense of community among like-minded individuals.

• Advice for Future Attendees: Isla encouraged attendees to take breaks when needed and to seek out safe spaces for conversation, especially for those who may feel overwhelmed.

In summary, Isla's journey through these two conferences was marked by professional growth, networking opportunities, and a renewed sense of purpose in her work for marine conservation.

Connect with Isla: University of Stirling: https://www.stir.ac.uk/people/1458424

Save Our Seas: https://saveourseas.com/project-leader/isla-hodgson/

World of Sharks Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/world-of-sharks/id1578217405 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/464Xkx160AJUvaov7osKtY?si=4f9457e852084727

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