My name is Rhiannon and I am 24 years old. I have been invited to join a crew of 10 women to go on a science and outreach sailing expedition in April 2017. Traveling by wind on S/V Sea Dragon, we will taking multiple water samples to test for microplastics, POPs (Persistant Organic Pollutants) and other contaminants. This scientific sailing expedition will be  the first-ever microplastic and nanoplastic sampling in the Caribbean Sea and provide baseline data to the countries we visit. I will also get the chance to do local outreach and teach people about waste management and ocean pollution. The expedition is completed over two legs, each 9 days long. Each leg costs $5300 CAD so I am aiming to just complete one leg as cost is a limiting factor for me. This cost covers sailing gear, science equipment and maintenance, food and travel. I will be paying for flights myself.
This research expedition would mean so much to me, and is an opportunity of a lifetime. While I am young, I want to be able to pursue what I am most interested in and learn as much as I can so I can continue to make this world a better place for future generations. 

During the month of January, I am going "Plastic Free" to help raise money for this endeavor and raise awareness towards plastic pollution.  Every dollar counts and I cannot begin to describe how thankful I am simply to have this opportunity. 

With gratitude, 
Rhiannon