Sherneé Symonette

The future of our oceans will be defined by the choices we make today.

My name is Sherneé Symonette, and I am a legal professional working at the intersection of ocean governance, sustainability, and emerging technologies. My work explores how innovation, particularly artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and digital ocean technologies, can strengthen marine biodiversity monitoring, improve regulatory compliance, and support more informed and equitable decision making in maritime spaces.

As a Foreign Service Officer for The Bahamas and a researcher in international maritime law, I am interested in how law, science, and technology can work together to support more resilient ocean governance. My work examines how technological innovation can assist states in implementing international legal frameworks, improving marine data governance, and advancing the sustainable management of ocean resources.

Much of my perspective is informed by the realities faced by Small Island Developing States. For ocean dependent nations such as The Bahamas, effective marine governance is not only an environmental priority but also a matter of economic resilience, national security, and long term sustainability. I am particularly interested in how international legal frameworks can evolve in response to rapid technological change while safeguarding marine biodiversity, human rights, and sustainable development.

This website serves as a professional platform and research portfolio that brings together my work in maritime law, international policy, and digital ocean governance. It reflects my broader commitment to contributing to forward looking ocean policy and to shaping governance frameworks that are adaptive, inclusive, and capable of meeting the challenges of the next century of ocean stewardship.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Foreign Service Officer, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Conducted in depth analysis of political, economic, and social trends in assigned regions, providing timely reports to inform decision making at the national level
Contributed to the development and execution of long term strategies and policies in accordance with national foreign policy goals
Represented the country at public events, cultural exchanges, and media briefings, cultivating a positive image of the country globally.

Law Library Assistant, Eugene Dupuch Law School

Trained library staff in advanced legal research techniques, increasing database proficiency by 50% and enhancing overall research efficiency
Assisted patrons with locating case law, statutes, and legal precedents, ensuring accurate and timely legal information
Maintained strict adherence to legal and confidentiality standards, safeguarding sensitive documents and upholding privacy regulations

Branding and Communication Specialist, TGS Print Studio

Created and implemented brand strategies that boosted client engagement by 30%, aligning with intellectual property laws and data privacy regulations
Managed communication materials for over 300 clients, ensuring 100% compliance with legal standards and enhancing brand consistency
Conducted comprehensive market research to inform branding strategies, aligning with emerging trends and consumer preferences to drive business growth

EDUCATION

International Maritime Law Institute

Specialising in the international legal framework governing the oceans, including the law of the sea, marine environmental protection, maritime safety, and the regulation of emerging technologies in the maritime domain.
Engaged in advanced research on the integration of artificial intelligence systems in marine biodiversity monitoring and governance.
Developing practical legislative drafting skills aligned with IMO conventions and international standards, with a focus on supporting small island and developing states in strengthening their maritime legal frameworks.

University of Groningen, LLB International and European Law

Excelled in the multifaceted field of international law, encompassing diverse areas such as, human rights, diplomatic relations, alternative conflict resolution, humanitarian law, law of the sea, and, market regulation, showcasing a comprehensive grasp of its various dimensions
Demonstrated a commitment to staying abreast of current developments in international law, regularly updating knowledge to align with evolving global dynamics and, emerging legal challenges
Applied civil and common law methodologies leveraging an understanding of both codified and precedent based decision making and, legal interpretation

University of Sheffield, Erasmus Programme

Designed and developed a website to advocate for women’s rights in various cultural spectrums, enhancing awareness and community engagement, as well as, women in technology
Applied adept skills in problem solving within the framework of technology law, translating theoretical knowledge into practical applications for enhanced decision making in law enforcement contexts
Engaged in the study and application of newly adapted technological advancements and how they would be incorporated into the legal sphere, from both a civil and common law standpoint

University of The Bahamas, Associate Degree in Criminal Law and Justice

Completed an extensive curriculum encompassing criminal law, criminal procedure, evidence and, policy making to attain a foundation in legal principles and their practical implementation
Delved into the ethical considerations and professional responsibilities inherent in the dynamic field of criminal law
Explored the intersections of criminal law and broader societal issues, critically analyzing the impact of legal policies on marginalized communities and advocating for equitable justice

PUBLICATIONS

THE VERDICT, Eugene Dupuch Law School Magazine ;

"AI and The Caribbean: Seizing Opportunities & Navigating Risks"

Published article, "AI and the Caribbean: Seizing Opportunities & Navigating Risks," The Verdict (Eugene Dupuch Law School Magazine), analysing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in the Caribbean alongside key legal, ethical, and regulatory challenges

CERTIFICATES

OceanTeacher Global Academy / UNESCO, Marine Data Management ; Contributingdatasets to EMODnet Biology

Contributing marine biodiversity datasets to EMODnet Biology, applying metadata standards, FAIR principles, and quality control to develop practical skills in advising on marine data processing, ensuring compliance, and supporting evidence based ocean governance projects.

United Nations Institute for Training and Research, Art and the Stewardship of The Ocean

Explored the role of art in influencing ocean governance and policy to address ocean health threats and support coastal communities.

Eugene Dupuch Law School, Professional Paralegal Development Programme

Gained comprehensive knowledge of Bahamian law, focusing on practical application and legal reasoning.

Code First Girls, Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning

Gained foundational knowledge in AI and machine learning, including programming and data analysis.

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

Perry Institute for Marine Science

Promoted sustainable management of ocean resources through initiatives supporting marine conservation and ecosystem resilience.

Bahamas National Trust

Contributed to the protection and preservation of marine ecosystems, focusing on sustainability practices and biodiversity conservation

Bahamas Creative Collective , President

Advocated for the preservation of cultural heritage through active involvement in creative projects and community initiatives.

INDIGO/ Dutch Game Garden

Facilitated sessions on ethical AI practices, promoting fairness and transparency in gaming technology.

International Journal of Bahamian Studies

Conducted research on sexual consent perspectives among Bahamian college students, contributing to gender equality discussions

SEMINARS/WORKSHOPS

Permanent Council of the Organisation of American States, Digital Diplomacy

Participated in discussions on the role of emerging technologies in strengthening democracy, analyzing their impact on democratic processes across the Americas.

The LEO Group, AI and Libraries: Enhancing Services and Engaging Communities

Gained a solid understanding of AI fundamentals and their applications in libraries, including ethical considerations, privacy, security, and bias mitigation.

ASSOCIATIONS

Max Planck Law Institute

Engaged in interdisciplinary legal research and discussions, focusing on advanced topics such as artificial intelligence and its legal implications.

Global Diplomatic Forum

Engaged in discussions on the intersection of domestic and international law, demonstrating proficiency in complex legal and diplomatic matters.

SOFTWARE SKILLS

Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; utilized advanced features for data analysis, presentation creation, and administrative tasks.

Document Management: Proficient in Dropbox for secure file management and Adobe Acrobat for precise document handling, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Project Management: Experienced in using Microsoft Project and Google Workspace for project planning and execution; skilled in Trello for task delegation and organization.

Communication Tools: Facilitated remote team collaboration using Zoom, Google Meet, Slack, Asana, Blackboard, Canvas, and Microsoft Teams, ensuring effective coordination.

Research and Analysis Tools: Proficient in legal research databases and tools, including LexisNexis, Vlex, Curia, Eurolex, Westlaw, JSTOR, HeinOnline, WorldCat, BloombergLaw, Bahamas Laws Online, and the International Journal of Bahamian Studies.