The Maldives Coral Institute (MCI) is a science-led non-governmental organisation dedicated to helping coral reefs survive and adapt to a changing climate. Based in the Maldives, the institute researches, develops, and deploys practical, community-centric solutions designed to accelerate coral reef regeneration, build ecological resilience, and protect these critical marine ecosystems from irreversible loss.The Maldives Coral Institute (MCI) is a science-led non-governmental organisation dedicated to helping coral reefs survive and adapt to a changing climate. Based in the Maldives, the institute researches, develops, and deploys practical, community-centric solutions designed to accelerate coral reef regeneration, build ecological resilience, and protect these critical marine ecosystems from irreversible loss.
MCI’s field projects focus on practical, nature-based ways to help reefs recover. Some of MCI’s projects include leading a community-based larval restoration initiative to improve natural recovery of degraded reefs, and using MARRS Reef Stars to rebuild lost reef structures, stabilise the seabed, and increase live coral cover.
Active regeneration sites span key local communities, including long-term projects in B. Fulhadhoo and K. Himmafushi, with a new site established in K. Thulusdhoo. Additionally, MCI works to make coastal defence structures more reef-positive and researches the impacts and management of corallivores across the Maldives.
MCI bridges the gap between scientific innovation and local stewardship by placing Maldivian communities at the forefront of reef regeneration. Beyond on-the-ground projects, the institute advocates for sustainable, coral-friendly infrastructure, conducts surveys to map climate-resilient coral communities, and raises the profile of ocean protection within international policy. By training local partners and fostering collaborative global networks, MCI works to secure a sustainable, regenerated future for coral reefs across the archipelago.
Since co-founding the Maldives Coral Institute (MCI) in 2019, she has designed and managed key reef conservation and advocacy programs across the country, bringing together local communities, international scientific organisations, and government stakeholders to implement practical, community-driven solutions for coral reef preservation.
Aya studied Marine Biology and Zoology at the University of Queensland, with Honors in Marine Microbiology. Before establishing MCI, Aya built extensive hands-on expertise in the private sector, serving as a Coordinator for Seamarc Pvt Ltd and as a Director at ReefTAC Maldives. In these roles, she directed marine surveys, led Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), and managed coral propagation and community training programs throughout the Maldives.
Alongside her scientific work, Aya has served as a marine and environmental advisor to President Mohamed Nasheed since 2016, a role that built upon her five years of dedicated service as a key aide during the Maldives’ historical transition toward democracy.
Since 2022, she has worked with the Maldives Coral Institute (MCI) on key initiatives, including CORDAP-funded coral IVF larval restoration programs across multiple Maldivian islands. For the Coral Reef Regeneration Co-Lab, Rhiannon is a postdoctoral researcher and project coordinator.
Rhiannon completed her BSc in Marine Biology in 2019 and her MSc in Marine Environmental Management in 2021 both at the University of Exeter. During her PhD, she investigated long-term changes in the health and condition of Maldivian coral reefs.
Her research explored national trends in reef resilience and the viability of restoration efforts by combining historical data, database searches, and field surveys, including 3D underwater photogrammetry techniques. This work spanned three global mass coral bleaching events that affected the Maldives in 1998, 2016, and 2024.
A firm believer in environmental stewardship since the country’s earliest “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” awareness campaigns, he has long been actively involved in local cleanup and conservation efforts.
Bringing a practical background in vocational trades and mechanical engineering, Ismail joined the MCI team in 2021 during the coral restoration project in B. Fulhadhoo.
The experience sparked a deep passion for reef ecosystems, providing him with unique insights into the mechanics of reef restoration. Now serving as MCI’s Restoration Manager, Ismail leads field deployments with the firm belief that our reefs can be saved through strategic planning, strong collective will, and mindful, dedicated effort.
