As we tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time – climate change, biodiversity loss and food security – it is now more important than ever that we harness the collective efforts of engaged citizens to achieve more, and faster. Civic Entrepreneur Sam Johnson will share his experiences of engaging communities for social good, followed by Cawthron’s Dr Xavier Pochon who will provide a comprehensive overview of how citizen science is contributing to mapping ocean health through the newly launched Citizens of the Sea project. Our speakers’ presentations will highlight the synergy between volunteer mobilisation and scientific research, demonstrating how collaborative efforts can lead to meaningful change.

Presenter Bios

Sam Johnson is a renowned civic entrepreneur. He founded and built the Student Volunteer Army that today through seven universities and 240 schools is ready to show up and shovel anywhere in New Zealand. Sam is now Project Director at STILL, best known as the owners of the World of WearableArt, where he leads ‘Paererewā – Markers for Reflection for 1000 Years’ - a social enterprise designed to create places to sit or rest around our country helping us think longer-term.

Dr Xavier Pochon leads the Molecular Surveillance team at Cawthron Institute and is an Associate Professor at the University of Auckland. Originating from Switzerland, he defied expectations to become a marine biologist, with a background in coral reef symbioses, diversity, ecology, and evolution. Xavier’s passion for the ocean and his enthusiasm for marine discoveries have fueled over 20 years of research throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Since moving to New Zealand in 2012, his research has focused on using environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems. Xavier is a co-founder and the science lead of Citizens Of The Sea.

Event MC

Livia Esterhazy has been a strategic business leader across various sectors, including marketing, communications, finance, business, science, and the environment. In her recent role as CEO of WWF New Zealand, Livia spearheaded initiatives with scientists, enhancing her passion for science and the interconnectedness of our world. She currently leads the programme “A Lighter Touch” – a collaboration between Ministry of Primary Industries, and the horticulture, viticulture and arable industries to grow food with a lighter environmental touch. Residing in the Nelson/Tasman region, Livia enjoys mountain biking, paramotoring, boating, enjoying a local tramp or cooking up a storm with local produce.

Event format

Doors open at 6.30pm. The Annual Lecture will begin at 7pm sharp. Please allow yourself time to arrive at the venue and be seated by then. A Q&A session will follow the guest speaker presentations. The lecture will formally conclude at 8.30pm but refreshments and a light supper will be served for those who wish to stay and mingle a little.

This event is free to students and under 25-year-olds. A suggested $10 koha is requested for general admission, or pay what you can afford.

Disclaimer: All registered participants will be added to the Friends of Cawthron email list. You can unsubscribe from these emails at any time.