By Erin Lipkowitz
Hi everyone! I’m Erin, and I recently completed the Coral Research and Restoration Specialist Program with Gili Shark Conservation.
I joined the program to gain hands-on experience in one of my life-long passions: marine conservation and restoration. My goal was to explore how I could bridge this passion with my professional background in engineering. What drew me to Gili Shark Conservation specifically was the holistic approach—learning both in and out of the water, with weekly masterclasses from organizations I’ve admired for years like Coral Gardeners and Reefy. I wanted to walk away not just with knowledge, but with clarity on how to carry this passion forward in my life.
When I first arrived, I’ll admit I was nervous—unsure if I had the diving skills or marine biology knowledge to contribute meaningfully. But what stood out to me immediately was the culture here. Gili Shark Conservation emphasizes transparency, encouragement, and growth. That mindset changed everything for me.
My first dive was unforgettable—I was like a kid in a candy shop. I couldn’t focus on just one thing because everything was breathtaking. Fish, turtles, octopuses, corals—they were like celebrities I’d been following for years. Seeing the vibrance of the reef, hearing its lively static hum, and feeling that sense of awe in real life was beyond what I imagined. I hope everyone gets the chance to experience the magic of a healthy reef one day.
Of course, I started off a bit clumsy underwater. But after diving twice a day for four weeks, the change in my confidence and comfort level was drastic. The team’s support, guidance, and the space to learn (and sometimes stumble) helped me grow so much.
It’s easy to get caught up in expectations when starting a program like this. But I’m happy to say this journey became more about learning and personal growth than anything else. Diving taught me patience and control—skills I’m still working on, but have already improved.
Beyond the technical training, I found something deeper: gratitude. The community work at Gili Shark Conservation truly emphasizes the big picture. Healthy corals mean healthy ecosystems, and in turn, healthy communities. From reef monitoring to beach cleanups, everyone—locals, tourists, volunteers—comes together with a shared sense of purpose. These were the moments that left me feeling genuinely proud and fulfilled. Not everyone gets to say that about their work.
Outside of diving, I also soaked up the beauty of Gili Air. I made silver jewelry, learned crafts from locals, snorkeled, ate delicious food, and even got some beautiful traditional bamboo tattoos. A weekend trip to Nusa Lembongan let me swim with manta rays—an experience made even more special after a masterclass on manta behavior and conservation. I was lucky enough to see a pregnant mother manta, which was a moment I’ll never forget.
After this experience, I can confidently say I made the right decision. This was not just a professional development opportunity—it was a deeply personal growth journey. I’m inspired to continue finding ways to connect engineering with marine conservation, and to create a meaningful niche where both can thrive.
I also want to highlight the incredible women of Gili Shark Conservation. They are authentic, supportive, and powerful—challenging gender norms in marine science and diving, building restoration structures, and paving the way for change in the Gilis. Their empathy and passion set a new standard for what it means to lead in conservation.
I’m leaving this experience with a full heart, expanded knowledge, and the confidence that I can pursue my passions professionally. You don’t have to choose between purpose and career—you can build a path where both exist.
Thank you, Gili Shark Conservation!
With gratitude, Erin
