Solly's Dream

Meet Solly, our much-loved Marine Conservation Officer at Madagascar Research and Conservation Institute (MRCI). Growing up in a small rural fishing community in northern Madagascar, he has always had a deep connection to the ocean. He and his community have seen firsthand the effects of environmental degradation and climate change. Village life changes dramatically as the wildlife they depend on dwindles. This drove his desire to learn more about marine systems and to help educate communities. Soon after completing his higher education, Solly enrolled in the University of North Antsiranana where he earned a Master’s Degree in Marine Sciences.

In 2019, Solly was accepted as a marine intern at MRCI. With his amazing attitude, work ethic and enthusiasm, he was quickly promoted to Marine Conservation Officer. He strives constantly to learn and understand more about fish lifecycles, coral reef ecosystems and marine conservation, building on knowledge from his Master’s Degree. Solly has become a truly invaluable member of our team.

Not only is Solly an excellent Marine Officer, he is also a proficient diver with certifications including PADI Rescue Diver, PADI Divemaster, and Emergency First Responder training. Solly’s knowledge extends to training volunteers in identification of fish, coral, algae, benthic invertebrates and seagrass. Due to his passion for educating local communities, he manages MRCI's environmental education programme in local schools.

Solly’s dream is to become a PADI Diving Instructor.

MRCI has undertaken to create this GoFundMe account in collaboration with Emily Borth to help Solly achieve his dream. Emily, a previous MRCI Director of Operations, together with several other past MRCI Staff and Volunteers initiated and ran the very successful Project Komba fundraising campaign that raised money to support the communities on Nosy Komba affected by the closure of Tourism in Madagascar as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our goal is to raise €3,900 for Solly’s course. MRCI has pledged to donate €900 towards this goal.

Please donate and help us make Solly’s dream come true!