The MMOA is proud to announce that our long-standing Executive Committee member and former Chair (2015-2020), Niru Dorrian, has been appointed as Ambassador to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science and Sustainable Development by our marine partners, the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science, and Technology (IMarEST). Niru has pledged to promote the safe and sustainable use of the ocean by leveraging the collective expertise of IMarEST members and its partners.
As the largest professional body of its kind, the IMarEST role of Ambassador aims to align its activities with the core objectives of the UN Ocean Decade.
Niru’s priorities as Ambassador include:
- Catalysing research, innovation, and policy alignment by drawing on the collective knowledge of IMarEST members and wider community.
- Engaging marine professionals as stewards of the ocean, fostering high standards of practice and recognition of skills.
- Promoting equity, inclusivity, and transparency in the marine sector.
- Undertaking global advocacy and building partnerships to advance sustainable ocean use.
Reflecting on his appointment, Niru stated, “Becoming UN Ocean Decade ambassador is a great responsibility and an immense honour. I hope my work over the next three years will help the IMarEST make a lasting contribution to the future of our oceans.”
Peter Sheppard, Head of Technical and Policy at the IMarEST, remarked, “Niru is passionate about the marine world, and I know he will make a huge difference as UN Ocean Decade ambassador. We are indebted to dedicated members like Niru, who work tirelessly to ensure our industry has a sustainable future.”
Niru has long been instrumental in shaping marine science within IMarEST, where he setup the marine partnership between the MMOA and the institute in 2018, also playing a pivotal role in establishing the Marine Mammal Special Interest Group (MMSIG) in 2020 and co-chairing it since, leading numerous outreach and educational initiatives.
Ashleigh Kitchiner, Chair of the MMOA, added, “We are so proud of this appointment for Niru and all his efforts. The MMOA will continue to support the Ocean Decade through our activities where practical. We have recently applied for UN Ocean Decade endorsement for our newly launched MMOA-IMarEST Bursary for aspiring MMO and PAM operators, which offers £750 annually, increasing opportunities for graduates internationally.”
This appointment marks an exciting chapter for the MMOA, IMarEST, and the wider professional marine community. We look forward to supporting Niru’s impactful work as Ocean Decade Ambassador as we collectively strive towards a sustainable ocean future.
