A Daughter of The Ocean

Wendy Kafo is a 25-year-old student pursuing a Bachelor of Fisheries Studies at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and an Early Career Ocean Professional (ECOP). With a strong connection to the ocean developed from an early age, she is committed to marine science and sustainable ocean stewardship.

Wendy took part in the Kaiyo-Maru Tuna Ecology Cruise (KY2505), where she gained practical experience in ship-based ocean research.

Her journey reflects the growing strength and leadership of women in Pacific ocean science and highlights the important role of emerging scientists in regional research and collaboration.

For Wendy Kafo, originally from the Solomon Islands, the ocean has always been far more than a simple landscape. 

As she explains: “Growing up in the Solomon Islands, the ocean was never just a backdrop; it was the essence of my community, merging through every aspect of our culture, economy, and daily life. From early childhood, I saw how the sea provided food for our families, supported local livelihoods, and passed down traditions that defined who we are as islanders.”

Coming from the province of Malaita, she grew up with parents who were fishermen and storytellers, passing down a deep connection with the sea. 

Their skills and stories didn’t just sustain their family; they also instilled in her a deep respect for and love of the ocean that continues to shape who she is and what she does.

Hearing those stories and learning those skills changed the way she saw the ocean, making her realise it’s much more than just water; it is part of her identity and community.

Wendy has also observed that the stresses on marine habitats have increased over the years. 

Overfishing, coastal habitat degradation, the impacts of climate change and intensified human activities have become realities she can no longer ignore. 

As she recalls: “I witnessed the escalating challenges threatening these marine treasures: overfishing, the creeping impacts of climate change, shifting ocean temperatures and coral reefs. Human activities were degrading habitats that I had known since childhood.”

These observations strengthened her determination to study fisheries and to “understand these complex issues scientifically.” 

This motivation led her to join the latest cohort of ECOP participants and to embark on a scientific cruise aboard the research vessel Kaiyo-Maru in the Western Pacific, an experience that changed her understanding of the fragility of marine environments.

She had the opportunity to spend one month at sea and was able to observe the combined effects of climate change and human activities on marine life.

One of the most memorable moments occurred during a night sampling session. “During one of the late-night sampling stations, as we prepared the scientific gear to study the vertical and spatial distribution of tuna larvae, an overwhelming sense of awe and responsibility hit me. 

Lowering the nets into the deep waters to capture these tiny larvae that represent the future of tuna populations brought a deep connection to the ocean and life itself.”

In that moment, each data point gained new significance: “Every data point we collected was not just scientific information; it was a lifeline for the sustainability of fisheries that many communities across the Pacific depend on.”

Hence, through larvae analysis, environmental DNA, zooplankton study and the use of oceanographic equipment, Wendy gained a clearer understanding of how climate disturbances affect the reproductive cycles and survival of tuna species.

During the voyage, Wendy developed a strong collaborative relationship with the Japanese researchers from the Fisheries Research Agency.  Working closely with Dr. Ishihara Taiki and his team, she found a supportive and professional environment. 

She also built a meaningful connection with her SPC team, especially with Dr. Allain, whose guidance and encouragement helped her grow throughout the expedition.

Finally, Wendy is convinced that she should share the knowledge she has gained. 

For her, it has to go back to the places where people depend on the ocean every day. Looking ahead, Wendy is determined to use her experience to motivate others and improve long-term sustainable management of fisheries:

” I want to share the knowledge gained by returning to my community and engaging with community leaders and traditional keepers, allowing scientific results to be combined with traditional knowledge, ensuring messages are culturally grounded, related, and easily accepted. I believe that each of us has a role to play in conserving our marine resources, and even small steps can lead to a big impact.”

– Source: SPREP