In the waters of Papua New Guinea, a group of Indigenous women is proving that marine conservation thrives when led by those who know it best. The Sea Women of Melanesia (SWoM), winners of the 2025 Equator Prize, have spent nearly a decade merging traditional knowledge with cutting-edge science to safeguard coral reefs and coastal communities.
Since its founding in 2018, the women-led initiative has trained more than 50 Indigenous women in reef monitoring, marine science, and leadership—equipping them to steer boats, conduct underwater surveys, and advocate for policy changes. Their work has helped establish 1,500 hectares of coral reef as Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs), ensuring sustainable fishing practices and ecosystem protection.
Beyond conservation, SWoM has engaged over 3,000 community members across 15 villages, fostering grassroots stewardship of marine resources.
"When Indigenous women lead, oceans thrive," said a spokesperson for the Equator Initiative, highlighting the group’s blend of cultural wisdom and scientific rigor.
The Equator Prize, awarded by the UN Development Programme, recognises outstanding community efforts to combat climate change and biodiversity loss. This year’s winners will be honoured at a ceremony later this year.