On our island in the middle of the ocean, climate change is a very real threat to our existence.
Two young Bermudians – Loryn Ming and Ruth Mello-Cann – have made it their life goal to do something about it.
Ms Ming, 23, and Ms Mello-Cann, 21, were the recipients of the 2025 Steinhoff Scholarship award from Bermuda Zoological Society, to support their plans for careers protecting Bermuda’s environment.
Ms Ming is studying for a degree in wildlife ecology and conservation at the University of South Wales; Ms Mello-Cann is studying for a degree in environmental science and sustainability at Brigham Young University in Utah.
Ms Ming would love to work on a project like the Cahow Recovery Programme, which aims to protect and restore the critically endangered cahow, Bermuda’s national bird.
The programme involves habitat protection, monitoring nesting sites, using innovative techniques to establish new safe colonies, and tracking cahows to better understand their sea life.
“Being part of this kind of work, helping to safeguard an endemic species and contribute to its recovery, would be an incredible opportunity,” Ms Ming said.
She would also welcome roles that involve hands-on-habitat restoration, species monitoring, community education, or supporting conservation research that helps ensure healthy ecosystems for future generations.
Protecting the environment is especially important in Bermuda, as it is part of who we are and where we come from.
“Growing up surrounded by the ocean and nature makes you realise how special and fragile it all is.
“If we don’t take care of it, we risk losing things that can’t be replaced. Even small actions matter, and when everyone helps, it can make a real difference. Protecting the environment means protecting our home not just for ourselves, but for future generations it’s what makes places like Bermuda so special.”
Lifelong passion
Ms Ming was interested in environmental sciences from a young age, because of her deep love for animals.
“One of the defining moments for me was watching the movie Tarzan,” she said.
“It sparked something inside me and helped me realise my calling to be a voice for creatures that cannot be understood. From that point on, I knew my purpose was to dedicate myself to protecting wildlife and preserving their habitats.”
Her degree programme allows her to explore her passion for understanding and protecting wildlife, and gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact.
“I hope to bring that knowledge back to Bermuda, where I can contribute to conserving both our wildlife and vegetation,” she said.
“My goal is not only to create a positive impact on the environment but also to open up opportunities for others who share the same passion for conservation.”
Ms Mello-Cann, meanwhile, has a deep love for the ocean and its critical role in sustaining life. She said the ocean provides a backdrop to her childhood and is an integral part of her identity and culture.
This extends to sailing: she graduated from the Endeavour programme and takes part in Fitted Dinghy racing with St George’s Dinghy and Sports Club, one of the oldest continually sailed class of boat in the world, with designs stretching back to the earliest decades of 17th century Bermuda.
Protecting the ocean is a fierce passion.
“We should be doing as much as we can to protect what we have so that future generations can embrace the culture of such close ties to the ocean and appreciate the goods and services we gain from it,” Ms Mello-Cann said.
“The projected health of our planet is heading on a downward slope, so any effort we put in to conserve what we have now will help to mitigate the negative effects of anthropogenic climate change.
“Specifically in Bermuda, the environment is all we have, being such a small island, and it plays an integral part of all our livelihoods.”
After graduating in 2026, she plans to get work in the local marine industry, where she can apply her knowledge and skills to help restore and protect Bermuda’s ecosystems.
“Once I return to Bermuda, I would love the opportunity to work in a hands on or in the field job such as an aquarist at Bermuda, Aquarium, Museum and Zoo,” she said.
“I enjoy interacting with the marine world and feel most connected to it by working directly with it.”
Make a difference
The Steinhoff Scholarship was established by BZS president Robert “Bob” Steinhoff in 2009 and is designed to inspire the next generation of Bermudian scientists and environmentalists.
Mr Steinhoff said: “We started the scholarship because there was a growing number of Bermudians who were passionate about our environment and wanted to make a difference and become environmental stewards.”
He said the Steinhoff Scholarship makes a lasting difference by investing directly in Bermudian students who are committed to environmental protection.
“By supporting their education, we help build local expertise that strengthens conservation efforts, scientific research and environmental leadership within Bermuda,” he said.
Ian Walker, BAMZ principal curator, who serves on the scholarship committee, said: “Bermuda’s environment is central to our culture, economy and way of life.
“Passionate young Bermudians bring fresh ideas, energy and long-term commitment to safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.”
Dr Walker pointed to a growing interest in the field among young Bermudians, particularly through increased involvement in environmental studies, volunteerism and community initiatives focused on conservation and sustainability.
“Their passion reminds us that meaningful change starts with appreciation and care of our environment that leads to action,” he said.
“They demonstrate that education, curiosity and dedication can lead to positive, lasting environmental impact.”
The Steinhoff Scholarship is given to students in the final two years of study in a bachelor’s or working towards a master’s or doctorate in their chosen field.
Students must demonstrate their passion for protecting the environment, strong academic performance, Bermudian status or eligibility, as well as related work or volunteer experience, especially if with BZS or BAMZ.
To apply, visit https://bermudascholarships.com/scholarship?scholarshipId=6ed5c803-073e-442d-abf6-b79c9e22b9cd
