🌊 Say hello to our second Frankfurt Spring School winners: Neelam Bhan!

Each year, 6 KfW Stiftung Fellows take part in the FSS. Together with the other participants, trainers and experts, they develop a conservation project idea during the course. A jury representing five FSS partner organisations selected the three KfW Stiftung Fellows who will receive funding to bring their projects to life. This year’s grants go to Tanzania, Honduras and Fiji!

Neelam, from Fiji, works with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in the Vatu-i-Ra Seascape – a globally important marine biodiversity hotspot in the Pacific Ocean. For many people in Fiji, the ocean is central to daily life – providing food, income, and cultural identity. However, increasing fishing pressure in coastal areas is putting strain on coral reefs and the species that depend on them.

Neelam’s project addresses this challenge by introducing community-led Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) – floating, anchored structures that attract fish from the open ocean, such as tuna and mahi-mahi, which are not prone to overfishing. By making these species easier to catch, fishers can spend less time fishing on coral reefs, helping these fragile ecosystems recover.

At the same time, the project strengthens community governance and supports the development of value-added fish products, with a strong focus on empowering women and creating more sustainable income opportunities.

By linking conservation with livelihoods, her work contributes to healthier reefs and more resilient communities.

Neelam’s deep connection to the ocean is evident in her work – she finds a sense of peace and inspiration in the sea and is especially passionate about working closely with communities to create lasting solutions.

We’re excited to follow how her project develops over the coming years. A big congratulations to Neelam on this well-deserved recognition! 👏