The Dorsal Effect

“I want to live in a world where my children, and my children’s children can still see sharks alive in the ocean.”

Established in 2013, The Dorsal Effect seeks to conserve sharks by providing shark fishermen with ecotourism as an alternative source of livelihood. These fishermen are hired to take tourists out for snorkelling boat trips instead of fishing for sharks. Instead of focusing on the demand for shark fin soup, The Dorsal Effect aims to save more sharks by addressing the supply side of the issue.

In this interview, Kathy Xu shares her experience working as the Founder of The Dorsal Effect.

1. What is your role in The Dorsal Effect?

I am the founder, marketing executive, social media strategist, trip facilitator, trip programme designer – everything!

2. Why did you choose this role?

I wanted to start and do something I believe in.

3. What’s the most interesting event that you’ve encountered in your role?

I really enjoyed being able to create a job for myself where I was constantly in the water, snorkelling in lovely sites.

4. What’s the greatest difficulty that you’ve encountered in your role?

Over time, I realised the difficulty of running and sustaining the business, and how difficult it is to get people to sign up for trips. It did not help that Lombok has been disaster-prone.

5. What jobs are available in The Dorsal Effect?

We mostly hire ad-hoc trip facilitators to assist in school trips. Sometimes, I have ad-hoc interns who help with social media marketing and outreach to schools.

6. What skills does The Dorsal Effect look out for in job applicants?

A marine science background is a great plus. Someone with business acuity, or marketing and outreach experience to schools and companies would be helpful as well to raise the business profile of the organisation.

7. Does The Dorsal Effect welcome interns? If so, what are the eligibility criteria?

Yes! Geography students have been the best interns because they understand the science behind marine conservation, and can plough through information to make content accessible to the public. Email me if you’re willing to be very meticulous and hardworking!

8. How can readers access more information about The Dorsal Effect?

They may access our website or our Facebook page. They may also write to me at kathy@thedorsaleffect.com.