He has a passion for the sea imprinted in his DNA, a degree in Marine Biology and a life that develops among the most beautiful coral reefs on the planet. Federica Moscheo, from Messina, born in 1989, already the protagonist of our pages, represents an Italian excellence abroad who has been able to transform her love for the marine ecosystem into a real life and business mission. Since 2020, she has lived and worked permanently in the Maldives, a tropical paradise which for many represents a holiday destination, but which for the Sicilian scholar has become her daily workplace and home in which to defend the environment. In recent years, the young woman has been at the forefront of numerous scientific projects dedicated to the conservation of the seabed, the monitoring of pelagic fauna and raising awareness on the protection of corals and species at risk and beyond.
«Currently – says Federica – I am focused on the opening of our diving center, “Reef Keepers”, on Kamadhoo, a local island in the Baa Atoll. It is a project born from the passion shared with my partner Luca Larson, a diving instructor. For us it is an exciting challenge because it is not just about offering diving and snorkelling, but about rooting a sustainable business in the heart of a local community. The project that excites us the most, however, already looks to the near future; we want to create a structured and ethical coral reef restoration program. The idea is not simply to plant fragments of coral, but to create a participatory initiative that actively involves the local community and tourists through educational and scientific paths. We want anyone who dives with us to not be a simple observer, but to become an active part in the protection and rebirth of the reef.”
Another wish? The desire to create a connection with the Strait: «Messina is my city and the connection with the sea is something that I carry with me wherever I go. Creating a “bridge” between Messina and the Maldives means uniting two profoundly different maritime realities but united by the same need for environmental protection and ecological awareness. In Kamadhoo we find ourselves in an extraordinary position: Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, famous throughout the world for the presence of Hanifaru Bay. This bay is a protected marine sanctuary of global significance, famous for the unique phenomenon of aggregations of dozens and very often even hundreds of manta rays and occasionally whale sharks that gather there to feed on plankton. Living and operating in the heart of such a prestigious and delicate ecosystem gives us an even greater responsibility. Concretely, I would like to involve students from schools and the University of Messina in scientific and educational projects linked to this territory. We dream of organizing workshops, environmental education courses and, in perspective, giving the children of my city the opportunity to carry out field experiences here in Kamadhoo to study marine biology and coral protection up close. In short, I would like to demonstrate to the young people of Messina that a passion for the sea can be transformed into a concrete impact and a global professional path.”
Among his most exciting and significant experiences in the field stands out the close encounter with the giant of the seas: the whale shark. Immunized by the majesty of this creature, Federica’s shot immortalized its presence in the Maldivian waters, testifying not only to the extraordinary beauty of these specimens, but also to the crucial importance of protecting their habitat from external threats and unregulated tourism.
«Experiencing an encounter like this right here in the Baa Atoll – he lights up with enthusiasm as he concludes – not far from the natural sanctuary of Hanifaru Bay, makes everything even more special, makes you understand why this area has been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Despite its imposing size, the whale shark is a gentle giant that moves through the water with incredible grace. In that moment you feel a sense of deep respect and vulnerability, but also a pure and uncontaminated joy. For me this meeting had a profound meaning: it was an emotional confirmation of why we chose to open our diving center and why it is worth dedicating every energy to protecting the ocean.”