FOR 30-year-old Berbice-born marine biologist, Maria Fraser, the ocean has always been her calling. From her early days studying at the University of Guyana’s Tain Campus to becoming the only Guyanese with a Master’s degree in Marine Science, her journey has been one of passion, persistence, and purpose. Now, Maria is charting a new course as one of Guyana’s 2025 Chevening Scholars.

Through the prestigious UK Government scholarship, Maria will pursue a Master’s degree in International Relations at Birkbeck, University of London—a bold step into the world of diplomacy that she believes will complement her scientific background.

“International Relations is a social sciences subject, completely different from the environment,” Maria explained. “So, combining those two knowledge areas, I want to make something great out of it. At the end of the day, it’s about giving back to my country. My grassroots are in Guyana, and I want to help my country grow.”
Maria’s academic journey began at UG, where she excelled as the best graduating student in her Biology cohort. Her passion for the marine environment took her further afield when she secured a Government of Guyana scholarship to study in China. At Zhejiang University, she spent three years earning her first Master’s in Marine Science before returning home to take up a post at the Ministry of Natural Resources.

But Maria’s impact has extended far beyond her government role. For years, she has volunteered with conservation groups such as the Guyana Marine Conservation Society (GMCS), the Guyana Youth Environment Network (GYEN), and Environmental Management Consultants (EMC). Through these initiatives, she has actively encouraged young people to get involved in environmental advocacy.

“I’ve seen more young people trying to get involved in volunteering,” she said, noting that environmental clubs across Guyana are opening doors for youth to take part in conservation work.
Her advocacy is not limited to mentorship. Maria has been a vocal proponent of stronger marine policies, pushing for the adoption of an Ocean Governance Policy, a Marine Spatial Plan, and the establishment of a Marine Protected Area in Guyana’s waters. By pursuing International Relations, she hopes to bridge science and policy, ensuring Guyana plays a stronger role in shaping global environmental frameworks.

“My goal is to return and contribute to advancing Guyana in the environmental field,” Maria affirmed. “I want to help strengthen our global presence by ensuring that Guyana continues to play a leading role in sustainability and environmental stewardship.”

As she prepares for her year abroad, Maria is also eager to embrace the cultural opportunities that the United Kingdom has to offer. She looks forward to visiting museums, learning more about Guyana’s ancestral ties to British Guiana, and sharing her own culture with others.
Her message to aspiring Chevening applicants is one of perseverance. Recalling her own journey, she revealed that she was initially placed on the reserve list before later receiving the life-changing call that she had been upgraded.

“To anyone applying, I’d say remain focused. Determination and persistence will get you anywhere. Even if you don’t succeed the first time, there’s always another chance,” she advised.
With her second Master’s degree on the horizon, Maria Fraser is proving that the future of ocean governance in Guyana rests not just in the science of conservation but also in the diplomacy of international relations.