LEAP Project Volunteers

OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MANGROVE & WETLANDS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM IN SEYCHELLES

Nature Seychelles, through the Locally Empowered Area Protection (LEAP) project, has been conducting scientific research in the wetlands of Mahe.

The LEAP project now offers an opportunity for 2 volunteers to work with the LEAP Science team as they conduct ecological surveys in key biodiversity sites and increase local understanding of mangrove and wetland ecology, conservation and restoration.

The Mangrove Conservation program

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work alongside the LEAP team’s Conservation Officer in providing a baseline ecological assessment of the mangrove forests and wetlands of Mahe. As part of the surveying and monitoring program of mangrove ecosystems, the candidate will assist the Conservation Officer in studies on the aspects of mangrove ecology (species diversity, growth rates, invasive-endemic vegetation species interactions, faunal community assessment, anthropogenic impact assessment etc.), mangrove survey techniques and methodologies, monitoring protocols, assessment and evaluation of potential restoration areas, as well as data entry and analysis. On-the-job training will be provided on quadrat and transect based surveys, ground truthing methods, monitoring protocols, species identification and mangrove restoration techniques. Volunteers may have the opportunity to participate in activities organised to increase awareness of wetland conservation in the community through activities such as talks, workshops and other activities with stakeholders.

Who can join the program?

This volunteer role is designed for people who are working with or wish to pursue a career in ecology, biology, conservation, or education and want to learn more about mangrove ecosystems, and as such, no prior experience in mangrove conservation work is required, but is desirable for fieldwork.

• Be 18 years and above
• Be of good physical fitness and endurance as the fieldwork consists of strenuous physical activity
• Be able to swim (tread water) in tidal/rip currents and be comfortable in the water
• Be comfortable around/in the mud, insects and other organisms inherent to tropical ecosystems
• Flexible to a varying work schedule and capable of living in remote areas
• Conduct themselves appropriately and professionally within a team and project stakeholders
• Effective communicator, with excellent English writing skills.
• Suitable travel insurance.

Program details:

• Non-paid, voluntary position.
• 3-week duration
  Accommodation provided. Shared dormitory, including kitchen and bathroom. No meals included.
• Flexible working hours, 08:00-16:00 during weekdays
• Base location: LEAP project base Cap Ternay, Port Glaud, Mahe, Republic of Seychelles.
• Reporting to LEAP Science team & Project Coordinators

Timeline

*3-week slots open for two people from September 2024 – December 2025*

Apply for September by: 16th August 2024

Start date: 2nd September 2024
End Date: 20th September 2024

To apply, please send a cover letter, CV and digital photo by email, with “Mangrove Volunteer Programme” in the subject line to: rafaela@natureseychelles.org
cc: corinne@natureseychelles.org

If shortlisted, you will be required to attend an online interview.