Melissa Cristina Mrquez is a fiercely proud Hispanic marine biologist, wildlife educator, professional speaker and presenter, and freelance environmental contributor. Recently, Melissa was featured on Shark Week 2019, named one of BBC's 100 Influential and Inspirational Women of 2018, and gave a TEDx talk on sharks and female scientists. Melissa is the founder of The Fins United Initiative (TFUI) -- a program that highlights diverse sharks, the threats they face, and the scientists who study them.Melissa holds a BA in Marine Ecology and Conservation from New College of Florida and an MSc in Marine Biology from Victoria University. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Mexico, Melissa aims to bring attention to the importance of diversity and inclusion with her writing.