Black Excellence in STEM: Swimming to UBC Like a Fish by Dr. Rashid Sumaila

This event is the second offering of the student-led Black Excellence in STEM (BEST) Speaker Series, organized by the Faculty of Applied Science and supported by the UBC stEAR (Strategic Equity and Anti-Racism) Enhancement Fund. 

Dr. Rashid Sumaila is a Professor and Canada Research Chair (Tier 1) in Interdisciplinary Ocean and Fisheries Economics at UBC’s Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries and the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. His research examines how economics can be used to protect marine ecosystems, with a focus on fisheries subsidies, marine protected areas, illegal fishing, climate change, marine plastic pollution, and oil spills. Through this work, Dr. Sumaila bridges science, economics, and policy to address some of the most urgent environmental challenges facing our oceans.

Internationally recognized for his impact, Dr. Sumaila regularly advises global institutions including the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. His contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including the Volvo Environment Prize (2017), election as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, and the 2023 Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement.

In “Swimming to UBC Like a Fish,” Dr. Sumaila will recount the twists and turns of his academic journey, discuss how his work connects science, economics, and policy, and reflect on what it means to build impact at UBC. Following the talk, attendees will have the opportunity to ask Dr. Sumaila questions and connect with him during a networking session. Register now to join the conversation and be inspired!