Overview:
Micronesian marine biologist Dr. Nicole Yamase’s visit to Palau International Coral Reef Center brought renewed attention to the deep connection between Pacific communities and the ocean. Through the screening of Remathau: People of the Ocean, Yamase’s journey highlights how science and traditional knowledge can work together to strengthen ocean conservation and protect marine resources for future generations.
By: Laurel Marewibuel
KOROR, Palau — The visit of Micronesian marine biologist Dr. Nicole Yamase to the Palau International Coral Reef Center highlighted the important connection between science, culture and the Pacific communities that depend on the ocean.
Yamase joined PICRC staff and community members for a screening of “Remathau: People of the Ocean,” a documentary directed by Daniel H. Lin that follows her journey as a Micronesian scientist and ocean advocate.
In 2021, Yamase became the first Micronesian and Pacific Islander, as well as the youngest woman, to descend to Challenger Deep, the deepest known point in the ocean, located in the Mariana Trench. She is also the first citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia to earn a doctorate in marine biology.
Yamase currently serves as director of science at OneReef, where her work focuses on bringing scientific and cultural knowledge together to build meaningful partnerships with communities across the Pacific.
For Palauans, Yamase’s work reflects the importance of understanding and protecting marine resources that support daily life, culture and community well-being.
“For us in Palau, the ocean is a big part of our daily lives,” Thomas said. “Nicole’s work can help us better understand what is happening to our marine resources and find ways to protect them while making sure our communities can continue to depend on the ocean.”
Thomas said communities should be involved in ocean management decisions from the beginning. He said fishermen, families, traditional leaders and young people each have knowledge and experiences that can contribute to decisions about marine resources.
“I think combining both can make conservation stronger,” Thomas said, referring to traditional knowledge and modern science. “Our traditional knowledge has been passed down for generations, while science gives us new information. If we bring them together, we can make better decisions for our ocean and for the next generation.”