Ayana Melvan

Ayana Melvan, senior director of conservation action at the Aquarium Conservation Partnership (ACP), has demonstrated exceptional leadership in promoting ocean justice, equity, and conservation within the zoo and aquarium sector.

She is leading initiatives that not only protect marine environments but also ensure that the benefits and responsibilities of ocean conservation are shared fairly across communities. Her work explores the intersection of environmental sustainability and social justice, making her a distinctive and influential voice in the field.

As a leading advocate for ocean justice, Melvan champions policies that cater to the needs of marginalised communities while promoting the health of marine ecosystems. She recognises that conservation is most effective when it's inclusive and has worked tirelessly to integrate equity and accessibility into the strategies of zoos and aquariums. This approach has influenced how institutions view their role in both local and global conservation efforts.

Besides her advocacy for equity, she is leading policy initiatives that shape the future of ocean conservation and the zoo and aquarium sector. Her expertise has helped develop progressive regulations and best practices that focus on animal welfare, environmental care, and social responsibility. Through these efforts, she has earned respect as a leader whose ideas and actions are transforming the industry.

Melvan also excels in education and public engagement, utilising her platform to raise awareness about biodiversity, ocean health, and climate impacts. She has led innovative programmes that inspire audiences to take action for the planet while mentoring the next generation of conservation leaders. Her dedication to collaboration ensures that her work has a ripple effect—impacting policies, institutions, and communities alike.

With her visionary leadership, commitment to justice, and transformative policy initiatives, Ayana Melvan is not only shaping the present but also paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for our oceans and the global zoo and aquarium community.