Lai Waqanisau
Bachelor of Science (2003)
Master of Environmental Science (2004)Saving the world’s environment is all in a day’s work for UOW Environmental Science graduate Lai Waqanisau. He is currently employed as an Oceans Campaigner for the Australia Pacific division of Greenpeace. Whether onboard a Greenpeace ship, or negotiating with political powers, Lai is passionately committed to protecting ocean wildlife. In his role he develops and implements strategies to prevent both the unnecessary slaughter of whales and the depletion of fisheries. A recent highlight for Lai was organising activities in Sydney targeting the International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting in the West Indies, which proved to be a lot of hard work. “I am usually based in Suva, Fiji and travel to other locations in the Pacific for regional meetings and public events related work. I was in Sydney for three months in preparation for the IWC meeting. This included a trip to Port Stevens, near Newcastle, for the Whales Festival event and organising whale watching activities for Greenpeace supporters and media groups. There was also collaboration with other non-government organisations (NGOs), such as the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). It was mostly done at a political level. Overall the Australian public was supportive of the work, which made it enjoyable, ” says Lai. After graduating from UOW with a Master of Environmental Science, Lai initially served his country in the Territorial Forces division of the Republic of Fiji’s Military Forces. He then held a position with Sinclair Knight Merz, a civil engineering company. Fate soon intervened. Lai had an interview with Greenpeace and was offered a position the same day. He happily accepted, attracted to the autonomous nature of this environmental action group. “The job is apolitical and decisions are made independently from governments, institutions and organisations. It is funded by ordinary people who support the campaigns of Greenpeace,” he explains. Lai feels that his time at UOW made him committed and dedicated to achieving results. He also believes it helped him to not only secure his position with Greenpeace, but also deal with its challenges. “The Eco Innovate programs and development programs were great. They gave certificates which were vital for references when looking for a job. I participated in the leadership program, which gave me confidence in handling challenges in working with people and organisations.” He particularly enjoyed the balance at UOW between extra-curricular activities and academic expectations and advises any student to get involved in fun past times. “Life at University can be stressful with assignments, exams and deadlines to meet. Students should find extra curricular activities to do after classes. The lunch time sports were great and I got to meet many students from other faculties and nationalities. I participated in every sporting event, including rugby union, rugby league and athletics.” Apart from Lai’s commitment to the environment his overall life philosophy is to have no regrets. He also believes in the strength provided by family and friends. “I set small goals each day and try to accomplish little things. My purpose in life is to do the best I can and never regret that I could have done anything any better or differently. It is also good to have a network of friends and family who can support and encourage you in your academic and career choices. Finally, you should be confident in your own abilities.”
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