A short summary of our project

We are trying to raise £3500 to get both of us to Florida Keys! We have the amazing opportunity to complete a 6 week coral reef research internship at MOTE Marine Laboratories, in order to progress our careers and help save coral reefs!

Who are we?

Jess!

My name is Jess, I'm a Tropical Marine Biology student at the University of Essex. I graduated from my undergraduate degree in Geography in 2016 and since then I have worked on conservation projects in Mexico and the Maldives learning more about the creatures that I love so much- coral! After this Masters programme I will continue in coral research and spend my life restoring these precious ecosystems.

Pip!

Hi my name is Pip, I am also a Tropical Marine Biology Masters student, and I graduated from my undergraduate degree in Social Anthropology in 2013. Since then I have volunteered at various organisations, and completed my professional diving certifications in Mexico, and been working as a dive instructor in Maldives. Having spent so much time in the ocean, I wanted to understand and help repair some of the devastating changes I was witnessing. I took a voluntary role as a Scuba Instructor at a marine conservation NGO in Philippines, where I learned all about corals and field research methods before starting my Masters Degree at University of Essex. After I graduate I hope to return to Maldives and get heavily involved in reef restoration programs and education initiatives.

our story

We have always had a passion for coral and the ocean, and all our previous experience comes from voluntary unpaid roles. Although this internship is also unpaid, we will be working at the lab Monday to Friday, 9.00 to 5.00, shadowing and learning from world learning coral biologists to gain this valuable experience.

Where will the money go?

Our minimum target of £500 will contribute towards our flights (£740).

Our full target of £3500 will cover our return flights (£740), and contribute towards our accommodation (£3000).

Rewards

As a personal thank you we'll send emails and photos, personal post card or video from Florida depending on your donation, explaining our gratitude, and what we've accomplished with the donation!

Images and video

This video is Dr David Vaughan, who we will be working along side, explaining the importance of the work at MOTE, please take a look at his incredible work!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b58kFFDlmRE&t=636s

Find us here

During our fundraising campaign we will be posting updates, please check Pip and Jess on Facebook, or Instagram @earthstories_ to follow our progress!

Help us succeed!

You don't need to give money to help us succeed! Please share it with everyone you know!

If you can donate even a small amount, we greatly appreciate it, as a little bit goes a long way when we work together!

Please help us make this happen! We can't wait to get started!