By Julian Sotelo and Amina Khan
February 11, 2026
Conservation International experts discuss the women who inspired them — and offer advice to girls who will become the next generation of STEM leaders.
1 min
Expertise rarely emerges in isolation.
Whether in science or any other field, it is often shaped through relationships. For many women in science, careers turn on moments of recognition — parents who made the natural world feel familiar, mentors who offered encouragement at the right time, colleagues who named possibility before they did themselves.
For International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we’re highlighting four women whose work powers Conservation International’s science across the globe. From forests and grasslands to oceans and coasts, each reflects on the people who shaped their path — and helped them see that they belonged.
Melissa Tlhapiso — Soil scientist, Botswana
Whitney Yadao-Evans — Delivery director, Hawaii
Dafne Grados Tello — Forest engineer, Peru
Mere Lakeba — Managing director for the Pacific Region, Fiji
Join our community
Hear from scientists and changemakers, step into stories of experts in the field, and come closer to the awe-inspiring power of nature. By subscribing, you agree to our terms of use.
