On Saturday, October 11th, we had the amazing opportunity to visit Horn Point Laboratory during their Annual Open House—and it was such an inspiring experience! The event brought science to life, showcasing creative and interactive ways researchers communicate their environmental studies to the public.

One of my favorite exhibits featured a large Styrofoam board displaying a vibrant wetland scene. Visitors, especially children, could lift little windows to discover the animals hidden within. It was such a simple yet powerful idea that sparked genuine curiosity—even among adults! That’s the magic of great science communication: making complex topics accessible, fun, and thought-provoking for everyone.

As an ocean conservation advocate from Brunei, this experience deeply resonated with me. Science-based knowledge is essential for protecting our environment, but it’s equally important to communicate that science effectively—especially to policymakers, students, and young learners. After all, caring for our planet is a shared responsibility.

Another highlight was an innovative exhibit led by Lorena Pinheiro-Silva, showcasing cutting-edge research that uses AI and satellite technology to monitor water quality along the Choptank River. Their work tracks nutrient pollution and water clarity, demonstrating how accurate data and advanced tools can drive better decisions, policies, and actions to protect our waterways.

I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to connect and learn, made possible through the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Professional Fellowship Program. Through this 4-week fellowship, young professionals from Southeast Asia are paired with U.S. host organizations aligned with their background and advocacy. I’m currently hosted by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) under the mentorship of Dave Nemazie, and I’ve truly appreciated seeing the impactful environmental initiatives here—especially the Chesapeake Bay Report Cards developed by UMCES’s Integration and Application Network.

It’s been inspiring to see how science, communication, and collaboration come together to make a difference. I can’t wait to bring these insights back home to Brunei and continue working toward a more sustainable future!