ABOUT
ABOUT
BLUE PROSPERITY VANUATU
Blue Prosperity Vanuatu is a government-led initiative to strengthen sustainable ocean management and support a healthy ocean, thriving communities, and a brighter future for the people of Vanuatu. The program will support the National Ocean Policy, 100% sustainable ocean management, and full protection of 30% of Vanuatu’s marine waters.
Blue Prosperity Vanuatu is a partnership between the Government of Vanuatu and the Waitt Institute, which began with the signing of an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in February 2023. The program will collaborate with and support existing ocean management efforts underway by communities, regional organisations, technical agencies, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
OUR
TEAM
Jack Loughman
Jack Loughman is the Country Manager for Blue Prosperity Vanuatu and brings to the role a wealth of experience in cooperative business and government finance. He has previously served as the Finance & HR Manager for the Republic of Vanuatu's Climate Diplomacy Programme and was the former General Manager of the Vanuatu Cooperative Business Network (VCBN), connecting over 300 cooperatives across the country, particularly in the fields of Trade, Industry, and the Cooperative Sector.
Jack played a pivotal role in revitalising the VCBN and shaping policies aimed at supporting cooperative businesses, including those within the fisheries sector. As a Board Member of the Cooperative Development Fund, he contributed to strategic planning efforts. Currently, Jack is furthering his education at the University of the South Pacific, pursuing a Professional Diploma and Master's Programme in Business Management. His dedication to professional growth is matched by his active engagement in community development, evidenced by his former role as manager of Neleya Eco Farm Enterprise.
With his extensive background and unwavering commitment, Jack is well-prepared to lead the Blue Prosperity Vanuatu programme, advancing the Vanuatu Marine Spatial Plan and steering Vanuatu towards a prosperous and sustainable future.
Ellian Bangtor
Ellian Bangtor is our esteemed Blue Prosperity Vanuatu Communications Coordinator, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to our team. She holds a Diploma in Media and Journalism and has dedicated over a decade of her career to working in both government and non-government organizations, specializing in communication.
Ellian's professional goal is deeply rooted in her commitment to the sustainable management of the ocean surrounding Vanuatu and the wider Pacific. She aims to leverage her experience and expertise to provide top-notch communication strategies that will inform and influence ocean management. Her focus is on promoting the economic benefits of the blue economy, enhancing livelihoods, and ensuring food security while responsibly managing marine resources.
With Ellian on board, we are confident in our ability to make a positive impact on ocean conservation and sustainable development in the region.
Virana Bogiri
Virana Bogiri is the Program Coordinator for Blue Prosperity Vanuatu. With a strong background in environmental science and law, she has played a pivotal role in supporting environmental initiatives across the Pacific region. Virana holds a Bachelor of Science in Earth Science and Chemistry and a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Geoscience from The University of the South Pacific.
Her career includes significant contributions to the Environmental Law Associations of Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, where she was instrumental in the success of conference hubs leading up to and during pivotal environmental conferences.
As the National Coordinator for the Australia Pacific Climate Alumni Network from May 2021 to September 2023, she demonstrated her commitment to climate action in the region.
Virana also served as the Country Coordinator for the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji's GOV4RES Small Grants Initiative from October 2021 to June 2022, further showcasing her expertise in managing environmental projects.
Prior to her current position, she gained valuable experience as an MSP Project Intern at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 2018 to 2020. Virana's dedication to environmental sustainability and her extensive experience make her a vital asset to the Blue Prosperity Vanuatu team and the broader mission of promoting sustainable ocean management in the Pacific.