WIOMSA is pleased to announce the opening of the 2025 nomination cycle for its four prestigious awards. These awards celebrate individuals who have made exceptional contributions to coastal and marine science, conservation, and the growth of WIOMSA in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region.
Award recipients will be honoured during the 13th WIOMSA Scientific Symposium.
Award Categories
Honorary Membership Award
WIOMSA’s highest honour, awarded for exemplary leadership and long-term contributions to marine science, policy, and coastal management in the Western Indian Ocean region.
Fellow Membership Award
Recognises outstanding scientific achievement and service by natural or social scientists with a strong publication record, research leadership, and regional impact.
Emerging Scientist Award
Celebrates early-career scientists (born on or after 1 January 1985) with a Master’s degree or higher, actively working in WIO marine/coastal research and demonstrating innovation, visibility, and leadership potential.
WIOMSA President’s Award
Honours individuals who have provided exceptional service to WIOMSA, including founders, long-serving staff, strategic partners, and key contributors to core programmes. May be awarded posthumously.
Nomination Process
Nominations Open: 15th July 2025
Deadline for Submissions: 9th August 2025
Who Can Nominate:
Nominations for the President’s Award must be submitted by current/past WIOMSA Board members or members of WIOMSA Programme Committees. For all other awards, nominations are open to WIOMSA members and partners
Self-nominations and nominations of current WIOMSA Board members are not permitted.
Submission Format:
All nominations must be submitted to the email address provided below. Paper submissions will not be accepted. Each nomination must include:
- A nomination letter (max. 1,000 words) clearly outlining the nominee’s contributions in relation to the specific award criteria
- The nominee’s CV (max. 4 pages)
- [Optional] Up to two letters of support
Submission and Contact Information
Please send all nominations to: secretary@wiomsa.org
Subject Line: Nomination – [Award Name] – [Nominee’s Name]
For enquiries, contact the WIOMSA Secretariat at: secretary@wiomsa.org
