About Us

Shaha is the co-founder and Executive Director of Maldives Resilient Reefs, where she has played a pivotal role in the NGO’s success. Since 2016, she has been deeply involved in marine conservation efforts across the Maldives, contributing to the establishment of new protected and conserved areas, promoting sustainable practices in coral reef fisheries and tourism, and actively engaging Maldivians in marine conservation. Shaha is also recognized as an Edinburgh Ocean Leader, highlighting her influence and leadership in marine conservation. Before dedicating her career to marine conservation, she spent eight years with UN Agencies in the Maldives, where she held various project management positions. She is pursuing an MbyRes degree at the University of Exeter, UK, focusing on uncovering historical reference points for marine resources in the Maldives.

Naffath is the Fundraising and Partnerships Manager at Maldives Resilient Reefs, bringing over eight years of experience in strategic communications, programme design, and implementation. Most recently, she worked as a Technical Advisor for the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI), where she played a key role in designing and implementing programmes focused on human rights, civil society strengthening, and justice sector reform. Before this, she spent over five years as a Research Officer at the Maldives President’s Office, where she coordinated media relations and provided strategic communications and research support across two administrations. Naffath holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the Maldives National University (MNU). She also volunteers with the Maldivian Red Crescent.

Inan is the Project and Finance Manager at Maldives Resilient Reefs, bringing over 15 years of financial management experience in not-for-profits both in the Maldives and internationally. He leads the ‘Laamaseelu Farudhun’ citizen science programme and plays a key role in supporting organizational development. Inan is passionate about environmental conservation, indigenous rights, fair trade, and gender equality, dedicating his expertise to advancing these vital causes.

Mufliha (Muf) is the Project Coordinator – Seagrass and Mangroves, dedicated to developing and implementing effective conservation initiatives for these vital ecosystems, alongside managing the Masmahaaveshi e-learning hub. She joined the team in 2023, where she supported research and outreach efforts for the South Asian Nitrogen Hub (SANH) project. Prior to this role, Mufliha interned for six months with the Maldives Underwater Initiative at Six Senses Laamu. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Troy University and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Biodiversity, Wildlife, and Ecosystem Health at the University of Edinburgh.

Tholal is Laamu Hithadhoo’s Environment Officer who is seconded to Hithadhoo Island Council to support the implementation and management of the Laamu Hithadhoo Baaneykolhu Conservation Area. After completing his A’ Levels in 2021, Tholal worked on a tuna fishing boat, which gave him a fresh perspective on the reefs surrounding the islands. Tholal has a Diploma in Finance and Accounting from Villa College.

Hassan, also known as ‘Beache’, supports Maldives Resilient Reefs’ projects as a freelance dive instructor and guide. With over 25 years of experience in the Maldivian tourism industry, he is a veteran dive instructor well-versed in the country’s marine ecosystems, particularly in fish diversity and distribution. In the 1990s, he served as a field officer at the Maldives Marine Research Center, where he assisted visiting researchers with various fieldwork, including the tuna-tagging programme.