Kingston, Jamaica (12 August 2026) – To celebrate International Youth Day, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) is pleased to announce Brazilian Marine Geologist, Malena Palmieri, as its newest SHE Champion.
In 2025, Ms. Palmieri was selected to participate in an at-sea training opportunity offered by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of the Republic of Korea (MOF-ROK) through the ISA Contractors’ Training Programme.
The 30-day expedition in the western Pacific Ocean focused on geological and environmental surveys. Drawing on her experience as a young woman working aboard a research vessel, Ms. Palmieri discusses in the video below the importance of the recently launched SHE Gender Compact.
Developed through the SHE Mentorship Programme, the SHE Gender Compact sets out seven evidence-based commitments to help research institutions, vessel operators, ISA contractors and other ocean stakeholders create safer, fairer and more inclusive working environments for women in offshore and deep-sea research.
Ms. Palmieri also expressed her pride in becoming the newest SHE Champion:
“Being part of an initiative that empowers and supports young women in ocean science means more than I can express. It is a privilege to inspire other women to pursue their dreams and contribute to building a more inclusive ocean community.”
As a SHE Champion, Ms. Palmieri will serve as an ambassador for the programme, using her voice and networks to promote its vision and opportunities.
Madam Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority, Leticia Carvalho, declared: “On behalf of ISA, I am so proud to welcome Malena as our youth ambassador and SHE Champion. She has benefitted from the Contractor’s Training Programme first-hand and is now translating that experience into a future career in deep sea science. She is a shining example of the value of ISA capacity building opportunities.”
According to the United Nations, “International Youth Day raises awareness of the challenges and opportunities facing young people around the world and celebrates their role as essential partners in achieving sustainable development.
The observance provides a platform for governments, youth organizations, United Nations entities, civil society, academia, and other stakeholders to promote dialogue, strengthen partnerships, and showcase youth-led initiatives that contribute to more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable societies.”
About ISA
ISA is an autonomous intergovernmental organization mandated by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to manage the mineral resources of the seabed beyond national jurisdiction for the shared benefit of humankind. ISA is committed to ensuring that all economic activities in the deep seabed, including mining, are regulated and responsibly managed using the best available scientific evidence for the benefit of all humankind.
For media inquiries, please contact:
ISA Communications Unit, news@isa.org.jm