Ms Ulamial Matairakula is the Environmental Officer for Pacific Blue Foundation where she works primarily with ten communities within the Beqa-Yanuca Seascape.

Ulamila obtained her Bachelor’s degree and Postgraduate diploma both in Marine Science from the University of the South Pacific (USP). With a focus on coral reef ecology, community-based management, marine resources conservation and national and regional marine affairs. She is currently pursuing her Master’s program with a focus on Coral Reef Ecology at USP. She has experience in ridge to reef programs focused on sustainable community development, preserving cultural integrity, enhancing education and conserving natural ecosystems.

She was the first Fijian to participate in the Community Exchange Engagement Program which is funded by the US Department of State and International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) in September to December, 2022. Through her recognized work she was selected by the International Union for Conservation for Nature (IUCN) – Pacific Region, to represent Fiji as a young Pacific professional and attend the International Marine Protected Areas Congress 5 (IMPAC5) congress in February, 2023.