Elle Ueland

Programme Manager

Kia ora koutou! As a programme manager at BLAKE I work across our BLAKE Inspire programmes, as well as support BLAKE Explorers and BLAKE NZ-VR in Tāmaki Makaurau.

I am originally from Philadelphia in the US and completed my BSc in marine biology in Florida. I moved to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2020 to pursue my MSc in Marine Science at the University of Otago. My MSc investigated integrated multi-trophic aquaculture with green-lipped mussels and kelp, ultimately trying to determine which species would create the most sustainable aquaculture system. Through my studies, I grew my passion for science communication, outreach, and education in the environmental field and I am keen to continue educating everyone about the marine environment.

Outside of work and study, I enjoy exploring Aotearoa any way I can! Snorkelling, SCUBA diving, or hiking are my favourite! I absolutely love the outdoors, and I love getting to work with rangatahi around Aotearoa to increase their passion for the environment.