Mckenzie Margarethe | MARINE NATURALIST AND SCIENTIST | BC, Canada
Inspired by childhood shows such as the Magic School Bus and Bill Nye the science guy, Mckenzie (or ‘MckenSEA’) has taken the batton and is running with it. She is using her storytelling powers to inspire the next generation of marine scientists. Mckenzie’s ocean science communication career began during her undergrad, when Mckenzie got involved in marine conservation and documented various reef and beach clean-ups, providing the footage to local conservation organisations. When she began working on a submarine, she decided to share her ocean experiences and the fun facts she was learning as a naturalist. From there, the transition to online science communicator took place during the pandemic.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
Our dependency on non-renewable energy resources. All of the sea creatures I teach about are also harmed by pollution and habitat destruction however those problems cannot be solved unless we also handle climate change. In order for less-wealthy countries to develop energy is required. Everything we do, the vast majority of modern life (ex. Me writing this for you) is based on energy resources. Therefore we need a swift transition to a reliable efficient renewable energy and if I could snap my fingers to have that happen right now, I probably would.
Who/what currently inspires you?
All the people that get involved in conservation inspire me. Especially the younger generations that have been calling out the social injustices that have been taking place in that space for far too long. Talking to them definitely helps me to keep going.
What do you value most in life?
Knowledge through experience.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
I learned to swim before I learned how to walk, and the water has always felt like home to me. I have also been interested in science from a young age, with shows like Magic School Bus and Bill Nye the Science Guy inspiring me and being a fundamental part of my upbringing. Child-me would be so excited to know I grew up to teach people about the ocean and inspire another generation of marine scientists.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
I hope to have inspired positive change.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
Be willing to ask for help, because only then will your project be unstoppable.
WEBSITE: www.mckensea.com
INSTAGRAM: @_mckensea
TIKTOK: @mckensea
TWITTER: @missmckensea
YOUTUBE: mckensea
PINTEREST: @QueenMckensea
