“My passion for marine and coastal conservation has deep roots that trace back to my childhood. As a kid, I would often imagine myself as a ranger patrolling vast plains, though I can’t identify the origin of that dream. At the time, I had little awareness of protected areas, including the marine and coastal environments that are crucial for conservation.”
– Dr. Razieh Ghayoumi
Dr. Razieh Ghayoumi
Department of Environment, Tehran | Iran
Razieh is an experienced professional with more than two decades of expertise in marine and coastal conservation, spanning various sectors including government, academia, and the community. She holds a PhD in Marine Biology and currently holds the position of Biodiversity Officer at Iran’s Department of Environment, Research Center for Environment and Sustainable Development. Her commitment to marine and coastal conservation is evident through her active involvement in global and UN initiatives. She focuses her efforts on investigating the social and ecological aspects of marine and coastal resources.
- What motivated you to become involved with Future Earth Coasts (FEC) and join the FEC Fellows Program? As an FEC Fellow, what do you hope to achieve or contribute to the broader scientific and stakeholder community?
My motivation to become involved with Future Earth Coasts (FEC) and to join the FEC Fellows Program stems from a profound commitment to coastal and marine sustainability, paired with a desire for personal and professional growth. I am eager to connect with like-minded individuals in the coastal and marine fields, engage in various activities, and stay informed about the latest developments in coastal and marine sciences. This program provides an invaluable platform to enhance my visibility within the scientific community and allows me to learn more about marine and coastal ecosystems and their dynamics, all while making meaningful contributions to conservation efforts.
As an FEC Fellow, I aspire to enhance communication among scientists, stakeholders, and the public, and to strengthen collaborations across scientific disciplines and local communities. I am particularly interested in promoting creative approaches to marine and coastal management and conservation, while actively participating in projects that align with my interests and expertise. Through workshops and discussions, I aim to further my learning and contribute to a supportive community that fosters growth. I hope FEC provides a platform for me to engage more deeply in my areas of passion, supporting me in connecting with professionals in the field and getting involved in projects. Ultimately, I think my involvement with FEC will not only enrich my own journey but also strengthen the broader impact of FEC in tackling the pressing challenges faced by our coasts and oceans, contributing to the resilience and sustainability of these vital ecosystems.
- What initially inspired you to pursue a career in the field of marine and coastal conservation, and what continues to fuel your passion in this field?
My passion for marine and coastal conservation has deep roots that trace back to my childhood. As a kid, I would often imagine myself as a ranger patrolling vast plains, though I can’t identify the origin of that dream. At the time, I had little awareness of protected areas, including the marine and coastal environments that are crucial for conservation. It wasn’t until I began my master’s program in marine biology that I discovered the existence of these protected regions—something I was completely unaware of before.
My journey took a significant turn when I passed a government exam and secured a position as an environmental officer with the Department of Environment in my hometown. Deep down, however, I aspired to be an environmental researcher rather than merely an officer. Fortunately, things shifted in my career, aligning with my earlier childhood dreams.
Upon learning that the Department of Environment had a Marine Division, I made the decision to move to the capital city, where I could immerse myself further in marine studies and pursue a Ph.D.
That moment marked the true beginning of my deep dive into marine biology. With each passing day, I gain more experience and knowledge about the intricate marine and coastal environments, and I am continuously amazed by the vast opportunities and challenges within this field. My ongoing passion is fueled by a desire to protect these ecosystems and contribute to our understanding of their immense value.
- Can you recall the initial opportunity that led you to participate in global and UN initiatives? What valuable insights or experiences did you gain from these participations?
Absolutely! This experience was a turning point in my life, as it not only familiarized me with UN agencies and their activities but also allowed me to begin research in the field of marine and coastal studies. It connected me with scientists and researchers from around the world, and, more importantly, taught me how to build a professional network and make lasting friendships.
To answer your question, I remember one day when a friend informed me about a UN fellowship related to ocean issues. I asked her to send me the details, and that was the beginning of my journey into the UN through The Nippon Foundation of Japan Fellowship. However, the selection process was quite competitive! This program is designed to support professionals from developing countries who are engaged in marine and maritime issues. It provides recipients with opportunities to enhance their expertise and understanding of ocean governance and sustainable development through practical experience at the UN and affiliated organizations.
The selection process involves submitting an application that includes a personal statement, a research proposal, academic credentials, and letters of recommendation. The selection committee evaluates candidates based on their qualifications, the significance of their proposed research, and their potential contributions to their home countries. Finalists may also undergo interviews, after which the selected fellows are announced. Overall, the process aims to identify individuals who are not only capable but also committed to advancing ocean-related initiatives in their communities.
Through the fellowship, I had the opportunity to work and learn at the UN and at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Canada—an experience I had always dreamed of. It deepened my understanding of complex marine issues and how to address them. Additionally, it significantly helped me establish my network and step into a world I had always wished to be part of. As a young girl, I could never have imagined reaching this point. This fellowship allowed me to bring an ocean-related issue from my home country into a research context that supported our policies and practices for better management. It also contributed to my personal and professional growth by enhancing my knowledge and skills.
- Your work engages with international organizations, government entities, academic institutions, and local communities. How have these diverse collaborations shaped your approach to marine and coastal conservation?
My collaborations with international organizations, government entities, academic institutions, and local communities have profoundly shaped my approach to marine and coastal conservation by providing diverse perspectives. International organizations have offered a broader, global understanding of conservation policies and governance, allowing me to engage directly with ocean scientists and experts to explore various viewpoints on marine issues. Working with government entities has deepened my understanding of how to implement international policies at the national level, revealing the complexities and challenges faced within ocean sectors.
My experience with academic institutions has provided me with a solid scientific foundation for developing evidence-based solutions. Together, these collaborations have emphasized the importance of the science-policy interface in effective ocean governance. On the local level, I’ve gained insights into the invaluable role of local and indigenous knowledge and traditions in conservation, as well as the importance of amplifying their voices and contributions. Overall, these experiences have laid the groundwork for a holistic understanding of the science-policy-community interface, essential for advancing ocean sustainability.
- In one of your publications, you mentioned tensions between government institutions and community-based conservation efforts. In your view, what are the key elements in fostering effective collaboration between these two groups?
I am going to give an unusual answer to this question. I believe our world is suffering from various challenges and distractions, with technology often diverting our attention away from what truly matters. As a result, having meaningful and genuine conversations has become a struggle. We need to recognize that our actions impact us and those around us in real and tangible ways. It’s essential to learn how to listen to one another and be more considerate. We often focus on talking more and using technology to communicate instead of having face-to-face conversations and truly listening to one another, which makes it hard to understand the true feelings and needs behind our words.
- Balancing the demands of research and personal life can be challenging, especially in a field as complex as environmental conservation. How do you manage these aspects, and what strategies have helped you maintain this balance?
Balancing the demands of research and personal life in the complex field of environmental conservation can indeed be challenging. To manage these aspects effectively, I have adopted several techniques, attitudes, and habits. Time management and prioritization are key strategies that help me maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. I have developed a structured approach to organizing my days and weeks, ensuring that I allocate time for both professional responsibilities and personal activities. Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential for maintaining this balance.
Support from my network—whether colleagues, friends, or family—has also been crucial. Knowing that I have people I can rely on during tough moments provides me with a sense of security. Additionally, self-care is a top priority for me, whether through daily activities or mindful relaxation practices. This focus on self-care enables me to bring my best self to both my work and personal life, allowing me to contribute more meaningfully without compromising my well-being or that of others.
I’ve learned that perfection in both work and life is unreachable, and it’s okay to make mistakes as long as I remain aware of them and stay committed to both areas.
As a woman in a demanding conservation career, I recognize that balancing these responsibilities requires resilience and a conscious approach to self-care.