Maya Somaiya

  • mayasomaiiya@gmail.com
  • Tanzania
  • 07/08/2024
Laboratory, Field work, Office work Climate change Conservation and ecology Marine research Marine bio/technology

Personal Summary

Growing up along the East African coast made me realize the value marine ecosystems have. Being a frequent diver and working hand in hand with professionals in this field I was exposed to an incredible and unpredictable world.

Hearing success stories like the stabilization of vulnerable species, witnessing the creation and positive impacts of Protected Marine Parks & Reserves as well as learning about how it directly influences the coastal communities that depend on this ecosystem sparked my curiosity. I hold a Bachelor of Science (BSc) from James Cook University, specialising in Marine Biology & Coral Taxonomy.

In most coastal communities, it is common to avoid associating with the oceans unless it is a source of income - fishing. A lot about it is unknown; therefore, people seldom interact with this environment and the species that thrive there. By combining my scientific background and multimedia skills, I advocate for these vulnerable organisms through conservation, research and filmmaking. Through my experiences, I learnt about effective storytelling in an ever-changing environment and refined my skills. I have been SCUBA diving since 2013 and am now a Divemaster capable of leading and teaching. Additionally, I hold a BSAC Underwater Videography Certification. 

Work Experience

Cnidaria Holotype Conservation: Assistant Collection Manager
Mar 2024 - Present Queensland Museum

In this role, I ensure the preservation and management of Cnidaria Holotype, Paratype and Neotype specimens within the museum's Natural History collections. Experienced in conducting audits, applying conservation techniques, and precise database management. Proficient in archival preservation and collaborative publication preparation for esteemed journals, while also dedicated to upholding archival standards and actively contributing to the core mission of scientific institutions.

- Conducted comprehensive Cnidarian specimen auditing, including inventory, verification, and condition assessments.
- Currently serving as the first author for a publication entitled "Cnidaria and Ctenophora Type Catalogue: Queensland Museum Tropics" that catalogues the type specimens of Cnidaria and Ctenophora housed at the Queensland Museum Tropics, including comprehensive updates on synonymy, taxonomy, descriptions, and specimen locations.
- Proficient in archival preservation (wet and dry stores) and collaborative publication preparation for esteemed journals, having learned the entire academic publishing process, including drafting, editing, review, and submitting.
- Addressed preservation challenges through the use of conservation techniques and tools like the DMA 35 Portable Density Meter.
- Managed 500 specimen data, ensuring efficient data management and retrieval - ALA, Vernon & Museum database update (CMS).

Project Developer
Sep 2021 - Present African School of Storytelling (AFRISOS)

African School of Storytelling (AFRISOS) is an NGO dedicated to empowering the next generation of storytellers in Africa.

Achieved through all-expense paid filmmaking mentorship programmes that aim to encourage young Tanzanians (East Africans) to pursue filmmaking and photography professionally. We give aspiring photographers and filmmakers life-changing opportunities to grow and learn through hands-on assignments, mentored by professionals.

In my role at AFRISOS, I am committed to equipping East African storytellers with the technical prowess and creative vision needed to convey impactful marine conservation narratives through underwater photography and videography.

- Spearheaded the development of comprehensive Underwater and Conservation-based programs for mentees at AFRISOS, an NGO dedicated to nurturing the next generation of storytellers in Africa.
- Crafted syllabi encompassing essential filmmaking skills, including editing with Adobe Creative Cloud, drone operation for aerial footage, and diverse camera techniques, while integrating theoretical frameworks for effective storytelling through film.
- Played a pivotal role in the selection process for mentees, ensuring the recruitment of promising talents passionate about filmmaking and photography.
- Created engaging content for social media platforms, fostering community engagement and promoting AFRISOS's mission of empowering East African storytellers.
- Served as an Underwater Videography Mentor, sharing expertise in technical and theoretical aspects of underwater filmmaking, while emphasizing the intersection of conservation, adventure, and travel filmmaking.

Education

BSc Marine Biology
Mar 2022 - Jul 2024 James Cook University

Name and surname

Maya Somaiya

Nationality

Indian

Years of experience

Recent graduate

Are you looking for a job in:

I am willing to move abroad, Only remotely

Additional training

Diving Qualifications

- PADI Divemaster (520994)

- BSAC Underwater Videography (31220223)

- 10 specialities (including deep, navigation and O provider)

- More than 120 dives

First Aid, Advanced Resuscitation and O

- HLTAID009

- HLTAID011

- HLTAID015

Language (indicate level)

Fluent: English, Gujarati, Swahili. 

Proficient: Hindi, French.

Digital competences (indicate level)

Office Software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace) - Advanced

Data Analysis Tools (e.g., R, SPSS) - Intermediate

GIS Software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) - Intermediate

Web Development (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript) - Basic

Content Management Systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal) - Advanced

Graphic Design Software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Canva) - Advanced

Personal website / LinkedIN

www.linkedin.com/in/maya-somaiya