Women Leading Mangrove Restoration in The Bahamas

Lily Haines
March 8, 2025

Have you ever wondered who’s behind the scenes saving our environment, right in our own backyard? Picture a group of energetic, determined women rolling up their sleeves and diving into The Bahamas’ mangrove forests—literally. On International Women’s Day 2025, the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS), a founding member of the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance (BMA), is shining a spotlight on these passionate, real-life heroes.

Mangroves might look like regular trees at first glance, but they’re actually nature’s superstars. They shield our shores from storms, create homes for fish and other marine life, and even fight climate change. After Hurricane Dorian hit, organizations including Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), Waterkeepers Bahamas (WKB), Friends of the Environment (FRIENDS), Cape Eleuthera Institute, and PIMS teamed up to protect and restore these vital ecosystems.

Meet the Women Leading Mangrove Restoration

Ranique Forbes, BMA Coordinator

Ranique is the connector who brings everyone together. She keeps the team on the same page, making sure each group stays focused on the goal of saving our mangroves.

Ranique Forbes, BMA Coordinator

Rashema played a huge part in starting the BMA. She’s all about teaching communities why mangroves matter and creating smart policies to protect them. Think of her as both a teacher and a guardian of these incredible trees.

Denise Mizell, Abaco Program Manager, Perry Institute for Marine Science

Denise is the science guru of the group. Every year, she coordinates the planting of tens of thousands of new mangrove saplings (called propagules!). She also keeps tabs on what’s working and what needs to change, ensuring all restoration efforts make a real difference.

Andurah Daxon, Executive Director, Waterkeepers Bahamas

Andurah inspires young Bahamians to stand up for their environment. She organizes fun, hands-on activities where students learn how mangroves protect our coasts—and how they can help keep these habitats healthy.

Olivia Patterson-Maura, Executive Director, Friends of the Environment

Olivia encourages entire communities to join in. She believes that real success happens when everyone—not just scientists—rolls up their sleeves to restore and care for mangroves.

Celebrating Every Woman Who Helps the BMA Thrive

The BMA has so many other dedicated women, like Nina Sanchez (BTT), Cha Boyce (FRIENDS), Taylor Ferguson (WKB), Lyndeisha Curry (FRIENDS), Dr. Karlisa Callwood and Danielle Cartwright (PIMS), plus passionate volunteers including Eleanor Tate, Olivia Mitchell, Iris Williams, Melinda Parker, Ruth Russell, and more. Every single person’s contribution is crucial to the BMA’s mission.

Together, they’re aiming to plant one million mangroves by the end of 2025, boosting coastal protection and supporting local wildlife. This massive effort shows just how powerful teamwork can be—especially when led by women who care deeply about our islands.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re a student or just someone who loves The Bahamas, there’s a place for you in this exciting restoration journey! Email info@bahamasmangrovealliance.org or visit bahamasmangrovealliance.org to learn more. And on this International Women’s Day, don’t forget to cheer on the amazing women leading mangrove restoration in our country—your support means the world!

To support the ongoing efforts to plant one million mangroves across The Bahamas, visit our donate page. Every contribution brings us closer to a greener, more resilient future.

What is The BMA?

The Bahamas Mangrove Alliance (BMA) is a collaborative group of organizations—Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, Waterkeepers Bahamas, Friends of the Environment, Cape Eleuthera Institute, and the Perry Institute for Marine Science—dedicated to restoring and protecting mangrove ecosystems across The Bahamas.

Why are mangroves so important in The Bahamas?

Mangroves help protect our shorelines from erosion and storms, support local fisheries by providing nursery habitats for fish, and even store carbon that fights climate change. They’re a crucial part of The Bahamas’ natural defense system.

How can I volunteer or get involved?

The BMA welcomes volunteers of all ages and backgrounds! You can help with planting mangrove saplings, community outreach, or fundraising. To learn more, email info@bahamasmangrovealliance.org or visit bahamasmangrovealliance.org.

What does the BMA do with donations?

100% of donations support mangrove propagation, planting events, scientific research, and educational programs. Every contribution directly helps The Bahamas build stronger coastlines and healthier marine habitats.

Who are the women leading mangrove restoration efforts?

The BMA’s women leaders include coordinators, scientists, policy experts, and community organizers like Ranique Forbes, Rashema Ingraham, and many others. They work tirelessly to guide research, manage projects, and inspire local communities.

Why is the BMA aiming to plant one million mangroves by 2025?

This ambitious goal helps restore habitat lost to storms like Hurricane Dorian. By planting a million mangroves, the BMA strengthens coastal resilience, supports wildlife, and showcases the power of collective action.

Can communities outside The Bahamas help?

Absolutely! Anyone around the world can support the BMA’s mission by donating, raising awareness on social media, and encouraging responsible environmental practices. Spread the word so more people understand how important mangrove restoration is!

Where can I find more information?

Head to bahamasmangrovealliance.org for up-to-date details on projects, volunteer opportunities, and the progress being made in restoring these incredible ecosystems.