Elise Engelking | Digital Nomad | United States
Since childhood, Elise has been an adventurous youngster who was never afraid to step outside their comfort zone. She was born with a strong desire to learn survival skills and push their wilderness limits, in order to one day fulfil their dream of becoming a world explorer. Elise has always had a strong desire to dwell in forests, explore mountains, and live off the beaten path, and is thoroughly intrigued by those who choose this lifestyle.
When did you first start your storytelling journey?
I started documenting more of the ocean and my story in 2021 when I moved to Quintana Roo, Mexico. Within just a few months, I was learning about and witnessing the devastating effects tourism has on not only climate change, but our ocean reefs and marine life. I went to a film premier in Cancun that was facilitated by Proyecto Gran Acuifero Maya, an environmental conservation organization. It was here that I met a scientist named Guillermo De Anda; his story, and many of the stories that were shared, inspired me to commit more of my time and energy in exploring our world's waters, learning about protecting these fragile environments and becoming a storyteller that builds community and empowers change.
Although a pivotal time for me came long before I had a camera and pen in hand, when I was exploring the San Juan Islands. While on Orcas Islands, I took a boat with my family to do some Orca exploration. We were about 2 hours in when all of a sudden we were surrounded by 70+ Orca whales breaching at sunset. We were witnessing 2 local pods of Orca whales merging paths. Something that only happens every 100+ years. A memory I will never forget.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
After completing a B.S. in product design & material science, digital arts and business, I decided to backpack through Southeast Asia. I traveled through 4 countries and met incredibly inspiring individuals on that journey. I came to the realization that everyone has a story to tell. A valuable story that can change the course of someone else’s life.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
My first chance to become an explorer was at the age of 15 when I traveled abroad for the first time and as a member of a youth group to Costa Rica. On our trip, we learned about an impoverished Nicaraguan community of women who had survived domestic abuse. We helped them build a structure they could use to sell their jewelry and crafts. We taught them English, listened to their stories, and built a playground for the children. I gained valuable life lessons from this experience, and it was the first time I felt that deep feeling you get when you're giving back.
Who/what currently inspires you?
Earlier this year I participated in a life-changing climate change leadership program in Antarctica, lead by Sir Robert Swan O.B.E. While on this expedition, I witnessed first-hand the devastating effects of climate change and why it’s crucial we act now. I united with individuals from over 37 nations, all from different work sectors, but sharing similar values. The peoople who inspire me the most are the individuals who are activating their communities back home to make small, daily, incremental changes to their lifestyle that will ultimately impact the future of our planet. Some of these individuals include a female forestry officer I met from India, a queer black male from Connecticut who at the age of 20 started their own nonprofit organization that engages youth activists fighting for a liveable planet, the social impact director from HP, and so many other individuals. The people who inspire me the most are the ones who are part of the daily fight in promoting a greener planet.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
As a US citizen, I have struggled with the lack of government action in protecting the environment. As a country, we are very divided on the topic of climate change and, in my opinion, we are doing too little to protect key aspects of the environment including water and air quality. Currently living in Utah, I’m witnessing first-hand these devastating effects. I would like to see more individuals stand up for what they believe in, become a bigger voice in their community and empower change on a local, political level. We CAN and we MUST.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
I want to be remembered by my acts of service and how I supported the people and causes that are most important to me. I would like to one day publish a book helping guide people to their purpose and how they can unleash their fullest potential. I’m currently working on building a community of climate change storytellers and hope to bring together a community of individuals that want to work towards a similar set of environmental goals. I believe that one person or one conversation can change the course of your life, so being a strong leader and storyteller is important to me.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
Take risks and follow your heart. It will guide you down a path that is authentic to you. Follow your intuition and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Finding mentors will help you identify the tools you need to add to your toolkit. Most importantly, have confidence in yourself and be patient on your journey. It’s personal to you so try not to compare yourself to someone who has been telling ocean stories for decades when you’re just getting started. Instead, use them as a resource. Their knowledge is valuable! Be kind, be compassionate and just start.
INSTAGRAM: @lu_elisebear
LINKTREE: linktr.ee/eliseunleashed
