Mentor Profile

Shaahina Ali is a Maldivian ocean conservationist and environmental leader dedicated to protecting the country’s marine ecosystems and empowering communities through climate and sustainability action. She serves as the Executive Director of Parley Maldives, the national chapter of Parley for the Oceans, where she leads nationwide initiatives to combat plastic pollution and promote ocean stewardship.

With a career rooted in both environmental advocacy and community engagement, Shaahina has been instrumental in implementing Parley’s AIR Strategy - Avoid, Intercept, Redesign - across the Maldives. Under her leadership, Parley Maldives has expanded environmental education programmes in schools, established plastic interception and recycling initiatives, and mobilised communities through large-scale coastal cleanups and awareness campaigns.

A pioneer in her field, Shaahina was also among the first Maldivian women to build a professional career in diving, contributing to safety standards and ocean awareness long before environmental activism became mainstream. Her work bridges grassroots education, policy dialogue, and corporate collaboration, making her a powerful voice for sustainable development in island nations.

Recognised regionally for her impact, Shaahina is widely respected for her unwavering commitment to environmental justice, youth engagement, and inclusive climate leadership. Through mentorship, she shares insights on resilience, purpose-driven leadership, and building movements that create lasting change.