We are happy to announce the recipients of the 2012 Guy’s Trust MantaWatch Award. Two exceptional Indonesian marine science students have been selected and, supported by a grant from Guy’s Trust, will each receive a fully funded position in our 2012 MantaWatch Internship Program.

Our internship program provides young marine scientists with an opportunity to develop their knowledge, skills and experience in manta ray conservation and research, while working alongside our international team. After initial training, interns play a key role in manta surveys, data management and analysis, and reporting and communicating findings. Graduates from the program will posses the skills to become future champions for manta ray conservation in Indonesia.

The Award recipients are:

Anindita Rustandi

I have loved the oceans ever since I was a little girl, and always watched underwater documentaries on TV. I followed my dream and I am now a student at the Faculty of Fishery and Marine Science at Padjadjaran University. As an archipelago, many people in Indonesia depend on a healthy ocean yet few understand the importance of protecting it. I know my generation has a great challenge ahead and I am excited to be selected for a Guy’s Trust MantaWatch Award to help me prepare for this challenge, to contribute to improving manta ray research in Indonesia, and to fulfill my dream of diving with manta rays in their natural habitat. Read Anindita’s full profile.

Muhammad Ichsan

I am a third year student at the Faculty of Fishery and Marine Science, Padjadjaran University. My main interest is the conservation of marine environments, and I recently helped to establish the Society for Endangered Species at university. Being selected for a Guy’s Trust Mantawatch Award is a real opportunity for me to advance my skills and knowledge about manta ray conservation, and to share this experience with other members of our Society. Read Muhammad’s full profile.