Programme Overview
The Sue Taei Ocean Fellowship offers Pacific women the opportunity to serve their communities and cultures through impactful ocean conservation projects. Our holistic approach ensures Fellows receive dedicated support throughout their journey, with a focus on developing sustainable, meaningful initiatives that create lasting change.
Fellowship Duration
Fellowships typically span two years, but we recognize the realities of life for our Fellows, who often balance multiple responsibilities while addressing the challenges of climate change. Extensions are considered for circumstances such as supporting communities after natural disasters, managing family commitments, or navigating unforeseen challenges.
Eligibility Criteria
The Fellowship is open to women from Indigenous Pacific Island/Oceania communities who aspire to deepen their impact within their communities or across the broader Pacific region.
As Pacific Islands women we know our ocean is our source of life, it underpins our identity - it is our home. Who better than us as Pacific Islands women, to play a critical role in conserving our ocean?
- Juney Ward, Coastal and Marine Ecosystem Adviser for SPREP (Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme)
Project Criteria
All nominated projects must demonstrate tangible benefits to Pacific Island communities, focusing on the protection and conservation of ocean and coastal resources. Projects are selected based on the following pillars, as evaluated by our sub-regional Aunty Communities:
Community
Projects must serve and engage the Fellow’s local community. Initiatives should include a reciprocal element, such as skills training, empowering women, or creating platforms for collective learning. For example, a Fellow pursuing academic research might give back by training community members or organizing a collaborative event.
Culture
Projects must be rooted in Pacific cultural values. We prioritise initiatives that creatively integrate traditional knowledge and cultural practices to address ocean conservation challenges, ensuring solutions honour and preserve Pacific heritage.
Ocean Conservation
Projects must have a clear connection to ocean conservation. This can encompass a variety of approaches, including scientific research, legal frameworks, policy advocacy, or creative expression. Past and current Fellows provide excellent examples for inspiration.
By combining these pillars, the Fellowship adopts a broad yet integrated approach to ocean conservation, ensuring that projects reflect the complexity and interconnectedness of Pacific communities and ecosystems.
Sponsorship
The Sue Miller Taei Ocean Fellowship is made possible through the leadership and blessings of the Taei family, with generous support from Conservation International and Nia Tero. To ensure the Fellowship's long-term success, we welcome contributions from organizations and individuals. Fundraising efforts are ongoing to sustain and expand the programme.
Opportunities & Mentorship
Fellows benefit from tailored learning opportunities and mentorship throughout their Fellowship. Each Fellow will have regular check-ins with a mentor for guidance and growth, as well as quarterly progress reviews with the Fellowship coordinator to ensure a positive and productive experience.
As the programme evolves, we aim to foster a vibrant network of current and former Fellows, enabling them to connect, share experiences, and inspire one another across the Pacific region.
The Sue Taei Ocean Fellowship is more than a program; it is a community committed to empowering Pacific women to protect our shared ocean heritage. Together, we create solutions grounded in community, culture, and conservation.
