The Philippines has been described as the “center of biodiversity” because it holds a majority of the Earth’s species, a high number of which are unique to the country. However, it is also at the center of adversity as a biodiversity hotspot and has lost more than 70 percent of its original habitat.
Anna was raised to believe that every crisis is an opportunity. In 2011, the young musical theater performer and lifestyle journalist co-founded a movement called Save Philippine Seas as a response to an illegal wildlife trade case. Since then, she has taken on the title “Chief Mermaid” and led campaigns to conserve sharks, empower Filipino seatizens, and reduce single-use plastics nationwide by writing policies, using social media, and implementing community-based programs. She will discuss how she is mobilizing businesses, government officials, youth, and marine life to protect, conserve, and restore the Philippine seas. Image: [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/annaroposa)