SeaWomen: Breaking Boundaries
Growing up one of my favorite shows to watch was Animals Planet, well, and Free Willy of course lol. The breathtaking landscapes and wild creatures seemed like a distant, otherworldly realm—a place I could never touch. I worked tirelessly through high school, and eventually discovered my passion for biology. But by the time I was certain of my career path, it was too late. A series of concussions early in college set me back, and suddenly the world I had once understood felt foreign. Information I used to grasp easily slipped through my fingers, and I found myself adrift, unsure of how to chart my course.
Well, I have recently applied for and been accepted to join the SeaWomen’s Expedition team February 2026 on their journey to Antarctica to study the impacts on climate change and the rapidly declining sea ice that it is comprised of. The Western Antarctic Peninsula is a highly productive marine ecosystem that has experienced extended periods of change since the 1950s, in the form of 3°C warming, glacier retreat, reduction of sea-ice cover, warming of the surface ocean of 1°C warming, and shifts in marine populations, among others.
I wanted to be an orca biologist, but the academic path seemed impossible. So, instead of giving up, I immersed myself in volunteer work, hoping that one day I would find my way back to this dream, with my name already making a difference. It was during that time that I picked up my first camera—and everything clicked. In an instant, I knew what I was meant to do. I began to revisit those Animal Planet moments, replaying the scenes in my mind, and suddenly, the dream felt achievable again. Even if retaining information didn’t come as easily as before, I realized that through my camera, I could still make an impact. Still, doubt lingered and my imposter syndrome consistently told me I wasn’t good enough. I was told by those around me that my dreams were too far-fetched, that I should pursue something more practical given my situation. I felt like I was starting too late, like I had missed my chance. Honestly, some days, I still feel that way.
I pushed those thoughts to the side and started capturing the world through my lens, using my photography to raise awareness for the species I’m most passionate about. I realized that, for many, connection to nature comes from seeing it up close. I hoped to ignite that same awe in others and inspire them to protect this fragile planet we share.
Since then, my work has been shared by influential outlets like PETA, Skagit Fisheries, The News Tribune, Fox Weather, Fox13, King5, KOMO4, Grit City Magazine, The San Juan Journal, and more. I hold a degree in Visual Media and am currently working toward my biology degree, which I’ll finish once I return from this expedition.
For years, I watched the Sea Women’s Expedition Team, waiting for the day I could join them. So when the invitation to be part of their mission to Antarctica came, I could hardly believe it. I am filled with joy and pride that the little girl who once dreamed of exploring the world is now stepping into the unknown.
Though this expedition isn’t financially supported, the opportunities it will open up in both photography and biology are limitless. This is just the beginning, and I’m ready to dive into this new chapter with everything I’ve got—determined, passionate, and ready to make a lasting difference. Stay tuned to follow my journey. If you want to donate to help me with funds, here is the link to my Go Fund Me account. CHEERS TO THE FUTURE AND CHEERS TO ADVENTURE!
