Get to Know Ms. Louisette Hoareau - Research Scientist

On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we honor and celebrate the remarkable contributions and achievements of women in the field of science. Women continue to break barriers, creating an environment which empowers other ladies to also pursue their passion for science. By supporting and encouraging women and girls in science, we continue to unlock a world of diverse perspectives, innovation, creativity and drive transformative change.

We’re excited to introduce you to Ms. Louisette Hoareau, Research Scientist within SPGA, who shares her love for science:

What empowered you to choose a career in science?

From a young age, I was always interested in how the world works, why things were the way they were and what made it possible. I remember waking up super early on weekends just to watch National Geographic Wild and Discovery Channel. I was so eager to watch these shows, imagining myself being on field with them and how it would feel. At that time, I was oblivious to the growing interest as I simply loved it. As I matured, my love for science grew more and more with my prime interest being Biology; from a single unit of life to a fully developed organism, from the depths of the oceans and to the peak of a mountain, life flourished. I was both amazed and curious how it all came to be, I had so many unanswered questions that needed to be answered. My curiosity is intertwined with who I am as a person and it is what paved my career.

As a Research Scientist, what does your work entail?

As a Research Scientist I assist in attaining scientific research in both marine and terrestrial environments. My responsibilities involve developing, managing and implementing small scale research projects in the different parks that falls under the responsibility of SPGA. I also assist in evaluating and monitoring of specific conservation projects such as sea turtle monitoring, tortoise monitoring and Seychelles Flycatcher monitoring, just to name a few. I am also actively involved in collaborations and awareness with different partners, stakeholders and the community.

Did you ever want to give up on your career in science? If so, who/what motivated you to keep going?

There was a point in my career where the thought of choosing a career path paralysed me with fear. I was so overwhelmed with not knowing what I wanted to do with my life. As I delved deeper into knowing myself I just couldn’t think of myself not doing something I loved and was passionate about. I always had a sense of belonging when I was in nature, always feeling at peace, realizing this gave me a sense of purpose, wanting to contribute in the preservation of our world and also doing something I love.

Share with us the best professional advice you’ve ever received?

The best professional advice I have received was that I don’t need to know everything right away, but rather go with the flow and do what you are most passionate about, it will eventually fall into place.

Tell us about an achievement during your career that you are particularly proud of.

I am particularly proud of being able to successfully complete my thesis.

What’s your message to other aspiring young ladies who wish to follow a career in science?

To any aspiring young ladies out there that are either wishing or hesitating to venture in science, you need not be afraid. If this is what you truly love and are passionate about then I urge you to go for it. Life is only for the living, we do not have much time here and we might as well do what makes us happy. In the end, you will be happy knowing that you have contributed to a greater cause and that the future generation will get to experience it as well.