Jasmine Mariaca

Background

About Jasmine Mariaca

I’m Jasmine Mariaca (she/her/ella), a marine conservationist focused on hard coral health within the Caribbean. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Environmental Studies from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, FL. I have a strong background in field diving of about nine years with around 250 logged dives in addition to nonprofit administration work, data analysis, scientific article reviews, research collection, and environmental education. I am currently a Natural Resource Specialist for the Recreation Information Management team within Enterprise - U.S. Forest Service. I am an instructor and mentor for Youth Diving With a Purpose, a maritime archeology program that is continuously on the search every year to discover enslaved ships in order to bring light to the history, the people, and their stories. My role specifically entails guiding students through academic transitions from high school to college, or trade school and advancing their professional scuba diving skillsets. I currently serve as a scientific advisor for the nonprofit, Collective Approach to Restoring our Ecosystems (C.A.R.E.S) working alongside a team of marine scientists to collect and analyze data on coral reefs in the Florida Keys, Costa Rica, and Honduras by collaborating with scientific institutions and organizations who share similar coral conservation goals. Within YDWP and C.A.R.E.S, our mission is focused on marine conservation and maritime archeology but is incredibly intentional in diversifying the oceans and providing as many opportunities to BIPOC youth through mentorship, financial assistance, and networking in order to be able to participate in the marine industry. I have participated in four missions, and currently working on the identification of The Guerrero Shipwreck. Feel free to reach out with questions, inquiries, or collaborations.