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Zaphnath-Paaneah Villanueva

995

Bold Points

3x

Nominee

1x

Finalist

Bio

A climate change advocate from the Philippines with a passion for Biology - both in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Able to effectively perform tasks that involve native habitat restoration and education. A dedicated and goal-driven biologist with more than four years of diverse experience and a solid commitment to the conservation of endangered species and removal of invasive species.

Education

Brigham Young University-Hawaii

Bachelor's degree program
2019 - 2023
  • Majors:
    • Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
    • Zoology/Animal Biology
    • Education, Other
    • Biology, General
    • Marine Sciences
  • Minors:
    • Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy
    • Natural Resources and Conservation, Other
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Research

    • Dream career goals:

      To be in the administrative level of conservation biology, work for NOAA/UN. University professor, teaching biology/environmental science

    • Research Assistant - mole crab eDNA, microplastics

      Brigham Young University - Hawaii
      2021 – Present4 years

    Sports

    Table Tennis

    Intramural
    2015 – Present10 years

    Research

    • Biological and Physical Sciences

      Brigham Young University — Researcher, genetic encoder for Mole Crab eDNA
      2021 – Present

    Arts

    • Polynesian Cultural Center

      Dance
      School Recital
      2020 – 2021

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Brigham Young University - Hawaii — Collecting ocean/beach plastics
      2019 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Brigham Young University - Hawaii — Collects corals of opportunity, performs micro fragmenting and outplanting in the ocean
      2021 – 2022
    • Advocacy

      Asia Pacific Coral Reef Symposium — Non-coral species presenter and participant
      2023 – 2023
    • Advocacy

      Humanitarian Affairs Asia — United Nations green summit advocate/participant, pursuer of environmental science
      2022 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      Brigham Young University - Hawaii — Mangrove planter, nursery worker for native Hawaiian trees
      2022 – 2023

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Area 51 Miners Sustainability and Geoscience Scholarship
    The challenges of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss demand action grounded in both traditional knowledge and innovative strategies. My experiences and aspirations have shaped two ultimate career goals that I believe can make meaningful contributions to addressing these pressing environmental issues: first, preserving and stewarding fishponds to promote their ability as carbon sequesters, and second, honing my skills as a biological science educator to develop a "climate justice curriculum" that empowers the next generation to tackle climate change and steward their environment responsibly. My connection to fishponds began during my year with a nonprofit organization in Hawaiʻi—the Mālama Loko Ea Foundation. There, I gained practical expertise in fisheries management and aquaculture, alongside skills in native plant propagation and pest control. These experiences deepened my appreciation for traditional Hawaiian fishponds as vital ecological systems that preserve endemic and native plant, fish, and bird species. Beyond their cultural and historical significance, fishponds offer immense potential as carbon sinks, playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change. Additionally, earning my Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology and Biological Science Education at Brigham Young University–Hawaiʻi expanded my knowledge of conservation and provided opportunities to connect with professionals and participate in various environment-focused projects. I am committed to advancing research and conservation efforts that highlight and enhance fishponds' ability to sequester carbon while fostering sustainable aquaculture practices. By working with local communities, integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific innovation, and pursuing a Master’s degree in Natural Resource and Environmental Management, I aim to ensure that these ecosystems continue to thrive and contribute to global climate solutions. Equally important to me is education. My goal as a biological science educator is to develop and implement a "climate justice curriculum" that not only teaches students about the science of climate change but also empowers them to take proactive steps and set realistic plans for environmental stewardship. Having traveled across Hawaiʻi and participated in conservation workshops, I have witnessed the transformative impact of education rooted in both scientific rigor and cultural understanding. My curriculum will emphasize the interconnectedness of ecological systems, the importance of community-driven conservation, and the role of individual actions in shaping a sustainable future. I believe that equipping students with knowledge and actionable strategies can inspire them to become advocates for the planet and leaders in their communities. Both of these goals—preserving fishponds and educating future generations—are deeply tied to my experiences and aspirations. Graduate studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa will allow me to build on my expertise in fishpond management, teaching, and researching nature-based climate solutions. My education will provide the tools to develop innovative approaches to carbon sequestration and conservation and craft a curriculum that resonates with students from diverse backgrounds. I envision a career that harmonizes research, education, and community engagement. Whether collaborating with conservation organizations or shaping the minds of young learners, my efforts will be guided by the principles of sustainability and environmental justice. These efforts, rooted in both personal experience and academic pursuit, will contribute to addressing the environmental challenges we face and help pave the way for a sustainable future.
    Zaphnath-Paaneah Villanueva Student Profile | Bold.org