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Danni Washington, a trailblazing figure in the world of science communication, advocacy, and television, has dedicated her life to educating the public about the ocean. With over a decade of experience in science communication, ocean advocacy, and TV, she has built a career that seamlessly blends creative and scientific pursuits.
Washington’s love affair with the ocean began at a young age. Growing up in the Caribbean, she was surrounded by the revolutionary energy that defined her Jamaican heritage. This energy fueled her rebellious spirit, which she believes is a result of the Caribbean culture she was raised in. As a Black woman living in the United States, she has faced numerous obstacles that hindered her potential. Yet, her Jamaican identity and the sacrifices of her ancestors continue to drive her to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.
Washington’s career path unfolded organically, as she always felt drawn to breaking barriers. As a marine biologist, she pursued her passion for the ocean at the University of Miami, where she forged a new career path in science communication. Her creative background, including modeling, has also played a significant role in her development as a TV host and science communicator. She deems herself a "meaningful model," using her external attributes to capture positive attention and redirect it toward a deeper purpose.
When asked about her message to young women, Washington emphasized the importance of self-awareness, exercise, and soul searching. She encourages women to center themselves, set their own standards, and never be afraid of doing something different. For her, science and creativity are interconnected, and she believes that curiosity, asking questions, and pursuing intelligent solutions are essential driving forces for both pursuits.
Washington’s platform has also been instrumental in addressing the lack of exposure to the ocean that many children and people of color face, even in communities like Miami and the Caribbean. She has co-founded the non-profit organization Big Blue & You with her mother, Michelle, to address these disparities. The organization connects children to the wonders of the ocean through art, science, and media, with the goal of inspiring them to protect the ocean.
In the future, Washington sees herself continuing to explore different parts of the ocean, visit the Great Barrier Reef before it’s further damaged, and producing TV shows and network content that captures her international adventures. She is also launching her lifestyle brand, Mocha Mermaid, to build a community of ocean-loving BIPOC individuals.
FAQs:
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How does your Jamaican heritage influence your ability to be a trailblazer in your field?
My Jamaican heritage has influenced my journey in various ways. The revolutionary energy that defines the Jamaican spirit is something that resonates deeply. I feel that my quiet rebelliousness was a result of the Caribbean culture I was surrounded by. -
How did you build your career as a creative and scientist?
Science and creativity are one and the same, in my opinion. I believe that curiosity, asking questions, and pursuing intelligent solutions to those questions drive both pursuits. I consider myself a full-time citizen scientist, working directly with scientists from various STEM disciplines and supporting their research through my job as a TV host and science communicator. -
What advice would you give to young women?
I would encourage young women to center themselves through exercise (move your body, sweat, and release pent-up energy) and do some soul searching/journaling to excavate the ideas that make them feel the most inspired.
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