In this inspiring episode, Aisha sits down with Dawn Wright—a trailblazing chief scientist, keynote speaker, author, and the first Black person to travel to the deepest part of the ocean. Together, they explore Dawn’s remarkable journey through science, academia, and leadership, while candidly discussing what it means to be “the only” Black person in many professional spaces. Dawn reflects on growing up in Hawaii, her early work as an ocean-going science technician, her path to earning a PhD at UC Santa Barbara, and how she ultimately discovered her passion for GIS and ocean exploration.
Aisha and Dawn talk about representation, resilience, and the power of seeing Black women thrive in STEM. They also honor the role of supportive parenting and mentorship, lifting up the words of encouragement from Dawn’s mother that shaped her career and life purpose. This heartfelt conversation celebrates courage, belonging, and what it means to break barriers while paving the way for others.
To learn more about Dawn’s expedition:
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/08a75d3687e749989840e7d236aab74d
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