Josephine Edward is a 32 year old Fisheries Biologist who is currently employed by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine resources (NatMIRC) in Swakopmund, Namibia. For the past nine (9) years, she has been the only Ichthyoplankton researcher studying the early life stages of commercially and economically important fish species along the Namibian coastline, with the aim of determining the spawning and nursery grounds. The scientific data garnered influences policies and assists decision makers to make informed decisions to sustainably utilize and conserve marine resources for the benefit of future generations.
Josephine is also the Founder of the Lady Marine Consultancy Firm (LMCF) which provides fisheries related information and expertise to various research institutions and projects as well as advocate for young girls and women to penetrate the male-dominated Maritime industry. She is also a participant of the Mandela Washington Fellow for 2021. Here she gives a sneak peak into her life and career as a Fisheries Biologist.
What attracted you to the fisheries field?
After I matriculated as the best student in Oshana region in 2006, I was granted a scholarship to study Fisheries and Aquatic science at the University of Namibia (UNAM) by the Norwegian embassy.
What does your job entail?
My job includes sample collection at sea onboard Research vessels, development to determine the health of the marine environment, sharing the latest findings on Marine biology with various stakeholders through academic conferences and outreach programs. I’m also responsible for initiating and participating in research projects, discussions, public meetings, scientific publications and presentations, as well as capacity building and training of scientists in Africa and different educational institutions.
Being the only Ichthyoplankton Fisheries Biologist in Namibia, do you ever experience imposter syndrome and how do you manage it?
Yes I do, however I always focus on my strengths and accomplishments by maintaining a strong belief system that my work matters and that I am a powerful contributor to the Maritime industry.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career so far?
It's important to find good mentors and supervisors, as they will impart years of experience and wisdom into you, which will save you years of mistakes, regrets and accelerate your own career progression.
What obstacles did you face in your career and how did you overcome them?
The feeling of isolation or loneliness being the only Ichthyoplankton researcher in Namibia, but I overcame this by connecting with other early life scientists on the African continent and internationally through different networking platforms and collaborative research.
You’re quite passionate about Mentorship? Who has been a great mentor for you in the process of studying and now in your career?
Dr. Anja Kreiner, the only female Chief biologist at NatMIRC. She has supported and motivated me to grow in my career as a young female scientist.
What’s your definition of a change maker and how do you connect to this notion?
Someone who is uncomfortable with the status quo and who sees the forest from the trees. I connect through my passion for addressing the lack of women in decision making positions in the Fisheries sector, as I believe representation is a civic duty and a key catalyst of professional growth for women.
What three tips would you give to other women who aspire to be in the fisheries field?
Make the right subject choices from Grade 10 onwards. Study hard, develop and nurture a love for the ocean and be fearless. Your gender as a woman does not define your potential capabilities.
What are your future goals?
Some of my future plans include creating a website for my business Lady Marine as well as forming a Non-profit Organisation that will address the struggles of young women in the Maritime industry.
Quick this and that:
Three books that changed your life:
Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
How to win friends and influence people by Dale Carnegie
Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
Favorite way to unwind: Swimming and Singing
Best advice you’ve ever received: You only have one life, so make it count.
Three Apps you can’t function without: LinkedIn, WhatsApp and YouTube.
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