Last month, DICE hosted the Mauritian Conservation Science and Management Meeting 2025.
The conference takes place every two years at one of the partnering organisations of the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF). DICE was the first institution to ever host the event when it initially launched so it was a full-circle moment for us to host it again this year.
The meeting lasted three days with a range of speakers from MWF’s different teams as well as experts and students. The event is an opportunity for all research groups to meet and discuss plans for the future of conservation in Mauritius as well as catch up on ongoing research.
Our research in DICE centres primarily on Mauritius parakeets so we all presented our key research findings. Together with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation and other conservation partners, our research has helped to bring the Mauritius parakeet back from the brink of extinction. By tracking their genetic diversity and infectious disease levels, we have aided in the growth of the population of a bird once known as the rarest parrot in the world, to over 700 today.
As one of Professor Jim Groombridge’s students, it was an amazing opportunity to attend and present at my first conference as well as network with all the amazing academics and professionals involved with Mauritius conservation. I was very nervous however I got some great feedback and advice on my research results. For students and researchers getting ready to share your research for the first time, here are a few tips:
Tips for presenting at your first conference:
Practice
- Practice your presentation with fellow students or supervisors ahead of time, in the venue if possible, to get feedback on content.
- Don’t over practice! Do not worry if the presentation is not perfect, the audience will be much more captivated if the flow is natural.
The night before
Try to stay calm. Remember, that this is an amazing opportunity to share something you’re passionate about. If you get overwhelmed I recommend using essential oils like lavender to reduce stress.
On the day
Keep yourself busy with other activities to avoid overthinking and stress. There are plenty of things to get involved with at a conference, and lots of people passionate about the same things as you, so take advantage of the opportunity to engage with them.
During your presentation
Breathe deeply, project your voice to the back of the room and try to speak clearly and slowly.
Remember: Everyone in the room has been in your shoes before! Even the most professional sounding experts get stage fright! Good luck, this is a great experience and one I learned a lot from.