Dr. Amanda Vincent
The Indianapolis Prize Finalists represent the world’s most successful professional wildlife conservationists, biologists and scientists, and their heroic work has saved dozens of animal species and their habitats from extinction.
The Indianapolis Prize recognizes and rewards conservationists who have made significant progress in saving an animal species, or multiple species, from extinction. Every other year, the Indianapolis Prize awards $USD250,000 to one Winner, while five Finalists receive $USD10,000 each.
“The 2020 Indianapolis Prize Finalists have developed effective approaches to wildlife conservation that are being implemented and replicated all over the world,” said Wes Sechrest, chief scientist and CEO of Global Wildlife Conservation and an Indianapolis Prize Nominating Committee member. “They have persisted despite long odds and countless obstacles to protect species that contribute to Earth’s ecosystems. These individuals are not just accomplished and impressive – they are heroic. We should celebrate them and answer their call to action.”
Amanda Vincent, Ph.D. (The University of British Columbia, Project Seahorse)
Dr. Amanda Vincent stands guard as the protector of the world’s 44 species of seahorses. As Director and co-founder of Project Seahorse, her determination to preserve the world’s oceans led to regulations of international trade of marine fishes and protection of vital underwater ecosystems.
Dr. Amanda Vincent became the first biologist to study seahorses underwater in 1986. Ever since, she has been the leading authority on the ecology and conservation of seahorses and a protector of marine life.
In 1996, Dr. Vincent co-founded and still directs Project Seahorse, an international organization committed to conservation and sustainable use of the world’s coastal marine ecosystems. Project Seahorse undertakes biological and social research, empowers local communities, establishes marine protected areas, manages small-scale fisheries, restructures international trade, promotes integrated policy, and advances environmental understanding. Dr. Vincent was a Finalist for the Indianapolis Prize in 2010 and 2016.
What advice do you have for people who want to make a difference in animal conservation, but don’t know how?
“If you are new to conservation, look around you, spot upbeat people/groups whose work inspires or impresses you and offer to help. Start with local issues and be willing to do what’s needed. Keep your mind wide open and focus on the health of the population or species or habitat. Participate in community forums, newsletters and events. Find reasons for optimism, as nobody needs to feel or hear any more gloom.”
© Filip Staes, Guylian Seahorses of the World Photography Competition 2016
What makes you most hopeful for the future of animal conservation?
“Every person I’ve ever met was happy to hear a bit about seahorses. There’s our starting point, curiosity that can be converted to commitment. Our biggest hope lies in reaching into people’s hearts and guts with our stories on animals (and plants), what they mean to us and what they need from us. Every story needs to end with “…and that’s what you can do to help, now.’ Many more people must care enough to take action. I invite the arts, industry and religion to help mobilize and advance such interest and to prompt reluctant governments to safeguard life on Earth.”
What was your reaction when you learned you were a 2020 Indianapolis Prize Finalist? How does it feel to be one of the world’s top conservationists?
“I’m so delighted to have the opportunity to highlight the need for vastly more attention to the ocean and marine life. The ocean represents 99 percent of the living space on Earth yet is very ‘other’ to most people. I am determined that our work on the quirky seahorses should bring attention to the opportunities for the ocean: end bottom trawling, stop illegal fishing, protect habitats and address climate change. I’m hugely conscious of how much needs to be done and very enthusiastic about doing it.”
Tags: Amanda Vincent, Awards, Conservation, Faculty, Project Seahorse, seahorses