OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels, known for its commitment to ocean conservation, has appointed a new resident marine biologist at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort. In line with the global conservation initiative called OUTRIGGER Zone, the resort aims to engage guests in activities that promote marine and environmental protection throughout World Ocean Month in June.

Danielle Stanley, a dual British-South African national with a childhood spent in Tanzania, assumed her role at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort in March. Throughout June, she and her team will introduce a diverse range of conservation initiatives for guests to participate in.

Among the activities planned are coral planting, excursions to spot whale sharks and manta rays, marine-themed documentary screenings, arts and crafts sessions, educational visits to local schools, and opportunities for guests to contribute to marine wildlife databases and research efforts.

During excursions to observe manta rays and various shark species in the surrounding waters, guests will assist Danielle in compiling encounter sheets. She emphasizes that the resort is situated in one of the world’s top seven shark sanctuaries, where sightings of whale sharks, black tip sharks, white tip sharks, grey reef sharks, nurse sharks, and silver tip sharks are common.

Danielle’s mission is to challenge negative perceptions about sharks and highlight their importance in maintaining the health of oceans. She believes that these misunderstood creatures are truly beautiful and critical to the marine ecosystem.

Artistic expression is a significant part of Danielle’s marine work. For instance, she paints murals and encourages children at the resort to create art featuring aquatic creatures or using materials found on the beach.

Since joining OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, Danielle has introduced guest presentations on Monday and Thursday evenings. These presentations cover topics such as Maldives Megafauna, Life On Our Blue Planet, The Ocean: A Carbon Sink, and Oceans and Climate Change. Specialized presentations focusing on sea turtles, whale sharks, manta rays, and coral reefs are also offered.

Additionally, the resort hosts marine documentary nights on Fridays.

Danielle draws inspiration from renowned marine conservationist and author Sylvia Earle, whom she describes as a legend in marine activism. She is also inspired by Madison Stewart, known as ‘shark girl,’ whose Project Hiu aims to repurpose shark fishing boats in the Indonesian archipelago for marine excursions led by former shark fin fishermen.

As an accomplished underwater photographer, Danielle’s image capturing a diver’s attempt to remove a fishing line and hook from the mouth of a whale shark off the coast of Tanzania was shortlisted in the Environmental Photographer of the Year Awards 2022.

Regarding World Ocean Month, Danielle expresses her enthusiasm for raising awareness about the importance of healthy marine wildlife and ecosystems among guests, hosts, and local communities in the Maldives. She emphasizes the need to establish a sustainable connection between people and the oceans.

For a more in-depth understanding of Danielle’s perspective on the marine world, an interview with her is available on the Ocean Culture website.