Qualifications:

M.Sc. in Ecology (Specialisation in Ecological Informatics), Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology, 2024

B.Sc. in Zoology, MES Keveeyam College, Valanchery, 2022

Email: meenakshi@dakshin.org

Profile: Meenakshi holds a Master’s degree in Ecology. For her Master’s thesis at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), she studied microplastics and heavy metals in marine sponges from the Andaman Islands. She also researched microplastic pollution in the Ganga River during her internship at IISER Kolkata.

She has worked with fishing communities through Fishing for Change in Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, and with PCFML and IYBN, focusing on sustainable fisheries and marine conservation. Her work reflects a strong interest in understanding how local knowledge and conservation practices can support sustainable marine ecosystems.

A passionate theatre artist, Meenakshi uses her performances – including solo acts on plastic pollution – to creatively engage audiences on social and environmental issues. Her work addresses themes ranging from environmental awareness to women’s empowerment and anti-war messages. She was awarded the Kerala Government’s Vajra Jubilee Fellowship for Young Artists.

At Dakshin, Meenakshi is part of the SeaChange team, where she works closely with coastal communities, particularly in Lakshadweep, focusing on sustainable fisheries, community wellbeing, and environmental education. She is passionate about integrating scientific research with creative communication to build stronger community connections and promote environmental responsibility.