Help fund Millie's research trip with Operation Wallacea

Help Me Join a Scientific Expedition in Indonesia!

Hi! My name is Millie, I’m 15 years old, and I’m incredibly excited to share something amazing I’ve been given the opportunity to do — but I need your help to get there.

In summer 2026, I will be part of a small number of students from my school who will take part in a two-week research expedition to Indonesia with Operation Wallacea (https://www.opwall.com), a group of scientists and conservationists working to protect our planet’s most threatened ecosystems. This is not a holiday — it’s a real-world scientific project, and I’ll be working directly alongside scientists to help collect vital ecological data, contribute to conservation research, and learn what it truly means to be part of the scientific community.

WEEK 1 – RAINFOREST RESEARCH (Buton Island - North Camp)

The first week of my expedition will take place in the tropical rainforests of Buton Island, which is home to some of the most unique and endangered species on Earth. I’ll be hiking into both untouched and human-impacted forests to help conduct biodiversity surveys. We’ll be studying how human activity is affecting local wildlife, and identifying species that are most at risk. This research helps scientists and conservationists make better decisions to protect these fragile ecosystems.

WEEK 2 – MARINE SCIENCE AT THE HEART OF THE CORAL TRIANGLE (Hoga Island)

The second week will be spent at Hoga Island Marine Centre, one of the world’s longest-running marine science field stations. This part of the expedition takes place in the Wakatobi Marine National Park, right in the Coral Triangle — the most biodiverse marine region on the planet. I’ll be helping to monitor coral reefs, fish populations, and marine invertebrates, and learning about the impacts of climate change, overfishing, and shifting reef ecosystems. We’ll even be contributing to long-term studies that have already produced over 200 published scientific papers!

Why This Trip Matters (and Why I’m So Passionate About It)

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been absolutely fascinated by nature — whether it’s the animals in my back garden or the wildlife documentaries I could watch for hours. I’m especially passionate about ecology, zoology, and the interconnectedness of life on Earth. I dream of a career where I can explore, discover, and protect our planet’s most vulnerable environments — and this expedition is a huge step toward that future.

Most importantly, this trip is scientifically and ethically responsible. Operation Wallacea work hand-in-hand with local communities, employs local people, and ensures that all research has a positive and sustainable impact. This is the kind of science the world needs — collaborative, educational, and deeply respectful of people and nature.

Why I’m Fundraising

The total cost of this expedition is just under £4,000 per person, which covers travel, training, food, accommodation, and all the equipment needed for research. I’m doing everything I can to raise money along with my school friends. We have fundraising events planned, including bake sales, raffles and movie nights. But we realistically know these events won't be enough on their own.

If you’re able to donate, even a small amount, you’ll be helping to support:

✨ Thank You! ✨

If you’ve read this far — thank you! I’d be so grateful for your support. If you’re not able to donate, you can still help by sharing my page. I’m really excited to represent my school, and all young people who care deeply about the future of our planet, and I promise to make the absolute most of this opportunity.

Your support helps me take one big step closer to becoming a scientist who makes a difference.

Millie x