Work with Nature Seychelles

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN A
MANGROVE CONSERVATION PROGRAMME IN SEYCHELLES (1 MONTH)

Nature Seychelles, through the Locally Empowered Area Protection (LEAP) project, has been conducting scientific research on the marine ecosystems of the Port Launay and Baie Ternay Marine National Parks.

The LEAP project is offering an opportunity for 2 volunteers to work with the LEAP Science team as they conduct ecological surveys at key biodiversity sites and increase local understanding of mangrove ecology, conservation and restoration.

The Mangrove Conservation programme

The successful candidates will have the opportunity to work alongside the LEAP team’s Conservation officers in providing a baseline ecological assessment of the mangrove forests of the RAMSAR site, which will include both on-field and office-based work. As part of the surveying and monitoring programme of mangrove ecosystems, the candidate will be provided with training regarding all aspects of mangrove ecology (species diversity, growth rates, invasive-endemic vegetation species interactions, faunal community assessment, anthropogenic impact assessment etc.), mangrove survey techniques and methodologies, monitoring protocols, assessment and evaluation of potential restoration areas, as well as data entry and analysis. Furthermore, community engagement involving students from the local schools will also be included in the training and will entail educational and awareness activities (e.g., class presentations) regarding mangrove ecology and other relevant conservation subjects. On-the-job training will be provided on quadrat and transect based surveys, ground truthing methods, monitoring protocols, species identification and mangrove restoration techniques.

Who can join the programme?
This volunteer role is designed for people who are working with or wish to pursue a career in ecology, biology, conservation, or education and want to learn more about mangrove ecosystems, and as such, no prior experience in mangrove conservation work is required.

Candidates should:

• Be 18 years and above
• Completed A-level studies or equivalent as a minimum
• Be of good physical fitness as the fieldwork consists of strenuous physical activity
• Flexible to a varying work schedule and capable of living in remote areas
• Work with children and conduct themselves appropriately and professionally around them
• Be a team player
• Effective communicator, with excellent English writing skills.
• Have suitable travel insurance.

Programme details:

• Non-paid, voluntary position.
• Duration - 1 month.
• Accommodation provided. Shared dormitory, including kitchen and bathroom. No meals included.
• Flexible working hours, 08:00-16:00 during weekdays, and one Saturday dedicated to community education and awareness activities
• Base location: LEAP project base Cap Ternay, Port Glaud, Mahe, Republic of Seychelles.
• Reporting to LEAP Science team & Project Coordinators

Timeline

Apply by: 25th April 2023
Start date: 15th May 2023
End Date: 9th June 2023

To apply, please send a cover letter, CV and digital photo by email, with “Mangrove Volunteer Programme” in the subject line to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ;
cc: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

If shortlisted, you will be required to attend an online interview.

Applicants must all be vaccinated against COVID-19.