Hear it from an intern…

Our intern Alec, shares his experience working with Project Hiu…

Rating - 6 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /5

For anyone considering an internship with Project Hiu, my advice is simple: just do it.

Before arriving, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect; all I knew was that I wanted to contribute to shark conservation efforts. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed as part of the team, surrounded by like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common purpose.

On my first full day, I joined a day trip where I met the fishermen and saw firsthand not only how much this project means to them but also how deeply they value the unique connections and friendships formed with interns and guests on board. As the days passed, my relationships with the crew deepened, and close friendships were formed.

A particularly memorable moment was participating in the induction of a brand-new boat into the project. We spent time in the captain’s house, alongside his crew and family, discussing expectations, operations, and requirements. Witnessing the genuine excitement of these men, knowing that opportunities beyond shark fishing were on the horizon, was an experience I’ll never forget.

Initially, I believed my time in Lombok would be focused solely on saving sharks. However, by the time I left, I realised it was about so much more—changing the lives and livelihoods of the fishermen and their families, with shark conservation as an essential byproduct.

This experience will forever serve as a reminder of how fortunate I am to have been given the opportunities and experiences that have shaped my journey, reinforcing my commitment to a career in conservation and environmental management. I encourage anyone with a desire to help and to be part of something where you can witness real, hands-on change to consider joining this project.