- Discover the women behind the ProBleu project and their diverse backgrounds. Together with their colleagues, they are shaping the future of European Blue Schools!
The ProBleu Project, committed to advancing the network of European Blue Schools, benefits from the brilliance and dedication of a diverse team, prominently featuring the contributions of women. Their diverse expertise and commitment are propelling forward our mission to integrate ocean and water literacy into education. As we celebrate Women in STEM Day on February 11, we recognize the vital role that women play in education and sciences, a role vividly reflected in the heart of the ProBleu team!
Eli Bonfill of CSIC, an oceanographer, environmental educator, and a vibrant marine conservation force embodies the spirit of ProBleu. With her extensive experience in territory stewardship, especially marine conservation in Catalonia, and as a dynamo in the Catalan Association of Women of the Sea, Eli exemplifies how women are not just participating in science but are leading and innovating in the field. Meri Turó, with her dual background in journalism and biology, and a master’s in education, brings a wealth of experience from her years advocating for women’s rights in Belgium. At ProBleu, she crafts communication strategies that educate, inspire, and make an environmental and social impact. As Meri says, “Women aren’t just filling gaps; they’re the driving force,” a sentiment that resonates deeply with the ethos of ProBleu.
From partner institution Earthwatch, Sasha Woods, a molecular biologist turned socio-environmentalist, bridges the gap between laboratory research and citizen science. Her work in water quality, sanitation, and hygiene underscores the importance of women’s involvement in science, particularly in areas that disproportionately affect women. Jess Briggs, geographer and science communicator of the Ocean Conservation Trust and Francisca Cardoso of Inova Mais, both champions in their fields, are a testament to the power of women in science communication and educational innovation. Jess, with a solid background in teaching environments and education, is fully committed to empowering young minds, and Francisca’s meticulous and responsible approach to project coordination and scholarship management for ProBleu is crucial in driving the project towards inclusivity and excellence.
Dr Egle Butkeviciene, as a full Professor and the Head of the Committee at the Kaunas University of Technology, brings profound expertise in civil society, civic participation, and a multitude of other socially impactful fields. Dr. Butkeviciene’s impressive portfolio of leading and contributing to pivotal international projects, including several under the H2020 banner, positions her as a force in steering the project towards its ambitious goals. Her commitment is further exemplified by her role in various influential committees and networks, especially in the citizen science domain, reflecting her comprehensive approach to fostering societal and environmental progress.
Equally integral to the ProBleu mission are the invaluable contributions from Plymouth Marine Laboratory, notably through the involvement of Fiona Beckman and Dawn Ashby. Their collective experience and insights are instrumental in enriching the project’s tools and resources for teachers to promote ocean and freshwater sustainability across European Blue Schools.
As we mark this special day, we are reminded of the powerful words of Francisca Cardoso, “Today we can inspire talented and curious girls to become scientists and be part of the change.” The women of ProBleu are not just riding the wave of gender equality in STEM; they are respecting and nurturing the ocean of opportunities it presents. Their contributions are pivotal in shaping an inclusive, informed, and environmentally conscious society. Through their expertise, passion, and vision, the ProBleu project is not just a testament to the critical role of women in science and education but a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
Funded by the European Union