Semaema (Sema) Vakaciriwaqa joined NatureFiji-MareqetiViti as an Intern in August 2018, where she assists with research as well as data transcription and entry. She also helps with field work and surveys, in addition to providing administrative assistance.

As an intern, Sema has participated in various community consultations and cave visits related to NatureFiji-MareqetiViti’s bat projects. These efforts have truly sparked her interest in Fiji’s endangered cave bat species.

Sema earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry at Fiji National University in May 2019. She now hopes to build on the practical knowledge she has gained during her internship, and pursue her postgraduate studies on the endangered cave bats in Fiji.