From the ancient olive groves of Tunisia to the vast blue waters of the Mediterranean, Bahi Hana's aquaculture journey has been shaped by a deep respect for nature and sustainability. Just as olive trees have been carefully cultivated for generations, she sees aquaculture as a way to work in harmony with the environment to produce food responsibly.
What inspired you to pursue a career in aquaculture?
As a Tunisian, I come from a land where the olive tree has been a part of our culture for centuries. I grew up surrounded by olive groves, witnessing firsthand how these trees are carefully nurtured to produce a sustainable harvest year after year. This deep connection to nature taught me the importance of sustainable practices and how they can leave a lasting impact. Inspired by this, I turned to aquaculture, seeing it as another way to work with nature to produce food in harmony with the environment. Just like the olive tree, aquaculture offers a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand, ensuring that we can meet today’s needs without compromising the future. It's about creating solutions that will last, just as the olive tree has for generations.
What is your current role, and what does a typical day look like for you?
As a Senior Aquaculture Specialist, my role involves conducting feasibility studies, managing important projects, and designing sustainable aquaculture systems. My typical day is spent working on project designs, finding ways to improve production efficiency, and making sure that projects meet environmental, economic, and social sustainability goals. I focus on finding practical solutions that help make aquaculture more sustainable and productive, ensuring long-term success for the industry.
What has been your proudest achievement in aquaculture so far?
One of my proudest achievements in aquaculture was spending 55 days aboard a tugboat as an observer during the bluefin tuna catch season. The tugboat was transporting two cages with the tuna to a farm in Malta, where they were fattened. This mission gave me firsthand experience of the bluefin tuna catch process and allowed me to observe sustainable farming practices in action. It was an incredible opportunity to deepen my knowledge of tuna farming and reinforce my commitment to sustainability in aquaculture.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in aquaculture?
My advice to young women considering a career in aquaculture is to stay curious, persistent, and open to learning. Aquaculture is an exciting and rapidly evolving field, offering endless opportunities to make a real impact on food security, sustainability, and environmental preservation. Don’t be afraid to dive into the technical aspects of the industry—whether it's research, farm management, or sustainable practices. Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors and colleagues, and don't hesitate to break through any barriers you may face. With passion and determination, you can help shape the future of aquaculture and contribute to a more sustainable world.
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