Through its EnviroMentor program, Nature Seychelles guides and equips young people to pursue a career in nature conservation by participating in open days, career fairs, and school talks, as well as through its on-site work attachment program with post-secondary institutions, and volunteer opportunities. The goal is to build local talent, ensuring the future of conservation in Seychelles, by mentoring young people and providing them with early exposure to these careers.
This July, for Careers Week, Esthel Didon from the LEAP project and Luca Saponari from the Coral Reef Restoration project delivered talks to students from Mt. Fleuri and Praslin Secondary Schools, respectively. On Mahe, the talk highlighted the work of Nature Seychelles, while on Praslin, the focus was on the Reef Rescuers and their long-term project in the Cousin Island Special Reserve.
The talks showed students the variety of roles in a conservation NGO, while emphasising that the challenges of conservation are evolving and, today, other of skillsets are required to tackle them. Modern conservation work also demands a powerful blend of technological skills. Personal qualities are also essential – teamwork, creative problem-solving, passion, and resilience are what bring a project to life.
Luca Saponari (L) and Esthel Didon (R) gave talks for Praslin Secondary and Mt. Fleuri Secondary
So, what does it truly take to run a conservation NGO?
Esthel explained that conservation organisations need people with expertise in everything from environmental sciences, eco-tourism, diving, and boat handling to policy advocacy, MPA management, finance, education, and communications.
She also highlighted that other careers are equally vital to conservation, such as enforcement of environmental laws, information technology, and teaching. Her message was crystal clear – anyone can make a difference, even if their work isn’t directly linked to the environment.
Esthel’s journey from a curious child to a passionate conservation professional perfectly illustrated a pathway to a career in conservation.
Her love for nature took root early on while she helped her aunt with turtle patrols. She was fascinated by even the simplest tasks, like measuring tracks and digging up nests. This early appeal led her to the Seychelles Maritime Academy, where her passion for the ocean truly flourished. Since then, she has worked with various NGOs, expanding her skills and knowledge in the field.
Students at Mt Fleuri Secondary School
On Praslin, Luca highlighted the coral reef restoration project at Cousin Island Special Reserve, which ended in a tour and a demonstration of activities at the land-based coral aquaculture facility.
The talks sparked discussions encouraging feedback from both students and their teachers, including requests for school visits to Cousin Island Special Reserve and training sessions for teachers centred on environmental education.
Students were encouraged to dive deeper into the Seychelles’ environment and its unique biodiversity, to join environmental clubs, and to volunteer with organisations as a stepping stone toward a career in conservation. The environmental sector offers a rewarding path where one can build a lifelong career. Start early and focus on acquiring the knowledge and skills you need, but above all, Esthel emphasises, make sure to enjoy nature whenever you can.