Introducing Our Resident Marine Biologist: Kelsey Ogren

Published By Joyce Osorio Director of Sales & Business Development Fuvahmulah Scuba Club 

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a curious ocean lover, understanding the sharks of Fuvahmulah adds a whole new dimension to every dive.

Strengthening Shark Education & Ethical Diving at Fuvahmulah Scuba Club

At Fuvahmulah Scuba Club, our commitment goes beyond world-class shark encounters. We believe that education, conservation, and responsible tourism are essential to protecting the marine ecosystems we are privileged to explore.

We are proud to welcome Kelsey Ogren, our Resident Marine Biologist, who now leads our Weekly Shark Presentation & Education Program in Fuvahmulah.

First Shark Presentation: A Strong Start

Last week, we successfully held our first Shark Presentation led by our Resident Marine Biologist, Kelsey Ogren, welcoming divers and guests from Spain, France, and India. The session received an enthusiastic response, with guests actively engaging in in-depth discussions, questions, and shared observations about tiger sharks and Fuvahmulah’s unique marine ecosystem.

The interactive exchange extended for nearly two hours, reflecting the strong interest and curiosity of our guests, and reinforcing the value of combining science, education, and real dive experiences. The positive feedback confirmed that these presentations add meaningful depth to our dive programs and enhance the overall guest experience.

Meet Kelsey Ogren

Kelsey Ogren is an American Marine Biologist and Shark Scientist with a strong academic and field background in shark ecology, tiger shark behavior, and ethical shark-diving practices. She holds a Master of Marine Biology from James Cook University, Australia, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Minnesota, USA.

Her career combines scientific research, dive operations, and guest education, allowing her to bridge the gap between marine science and real-world dive experiences.

Experience in Shark Research & Diving

Kelsey has worked directly in shark research and dive-based science programs in the Maldives and internationally. Her experience includes:

• Conducting tiger shark identification and observation dives
• Assisting in shark research and image-based data collection
• Supporting conservation-focused dive operations
• Leading marine education sessions for divers and travelers

She has also worked in laboratory environments, supporting molecular ecology research, which strengthens her data-driven and scientific approach to conservation.

Weekly Shark Presentations at Fuvahmulah Scuba Club

As part of our enhanced guest experience, Kelsey now conducts weekly shark presentations, designed to be informative, engaging, and accessible. These sessions cover:

• Tiger shark behavior and identification
• Ethical shark-diving practices
• The role of sharks in marine ecosystems
• Conservation challenges and responsible tourism
• Why Fuvahmulah is unique for pelagic and shark encounters

These presentations add meaningful value to every dive trip, allowing guests to understand the sharks they encounter, not just see them.

Science-Led & Ethical Shark Tourism

At Fuvahmulah Scuba Club, we are committed to responsible, science-led shark tourism. Kelsey’s role supports our long-term vision to ensure that shark encounters are conducted with respect for marine life, guided by research, observation, and best practices.

Her work also contributes to:

• Ongoing shark monitoring and observation
• Guest awareness and responsible behavior underwater
• Strengthening FSC’s conservation credibility for partners and agents

Looking Ahead: 2026 & Beyond

In 2026, we plan to further develop our marine education initiatives, including:

• Expanded shark education programs
• Deeper integration of marine science into dive operations
• Conservation-focused guest activities
• Educational content for travel partners and dive agents

With Kelsey on board, marine science is now an integral part of the Fuvahmulah Scuba Club experience reinforcing our position as a destination where exceptional shark encounters meet education, ethics, and conservation.

Interested in combining science with your shark dive holiday? Contact us for packages that include our Weekly Shark Presentations.