Tara Hooper

Tara's practical experience informed her strong belief in the importance of environmental education as a tool for helping young people develop life skills at the same time as teaching them about their natural world. Whilst working in Rodrigues between 1999 and 2004, she created the Club Mer model and saw its success in engaging young people. On returning to the UK, she founded The Marine Education Trust in order to bring environmental education to the forefront of conservation campaigns and to develop the full potential of the Club Mer programme. She has experience of cetacean research projects in New Zealand, Canada and Mexico as well as having managed marine research and education initiatives in Rodrigues.  She has also worked as a freelance fundraiser for conservation organisations, and been the Development Manager for an independent school.  Tara is currently studying for a PhD in the economic valuation of marine ecosystem services.