“I was very excited to be invited as a co-author,” she says. “Doing these types of things is something I really enjoy… but it was my first time creating a toolkit like this. Working on this toolkit, I learned so much more about fisheries and the specific impact on Hispanic lives. I didn’t consider that perspective before, even as a Latina. Our lives are connected to the ocean through our food, jobs, and traditions.”

Through the process, Zlatka found a space where her creativity and passion for science could come together. She designed visual materials that made complex ocean conservation topics—like bycatch, sustainable seafood, and ocean acidification—feel accessible and engaging.

“I love the creative part in addition to the scientific part,” she says. “While making the infographics, I was imagining someone reading and learning about the oceans. It’s easier and more engaging to understand these concepts through visuals.”

But more than just a design or research project, the experience gave Zlatka a renewed sense of purpose. It showed her that science can—and should—be a bridge to community, especially when it’s rooted in culture, language, and lived experience.

“Scientific communication is important,” she explains, “and getting people motivated about things that matter and impact all our lives is something I feel passionate about.”
Being part of the Hispanic Access network also opened her eyes to the strength of national community building. “In Norfolk, the Latino population is large, but we don't see it come together so often. Seeing this effort for connection on a national level is inspiring,” she says.

Zlatka now sees herself as part of a larger movement—one where Latinos are not just included in environmental conversations, but leading them. She’s passionate about empowering others to do the same.

That’s what Nuestro Mar, Nuestro Futuro is all about. The toolkit is a resource to help Latino communities take simple, meaningful actions to protect the ocean—through sustainable seafood choices, reducing plastics, advocating for policy change, and more.

If you’re just starting out, Zlatka suggests reading the pledge page, which outlines easy action steps and ideas for engaging with your family and community. Try one of the recipes—like Melissa’s ceviche—and share it with loved ones as a way to start conversations about conservation.

“These small steps help build awareness and spark conversation,” she says. “It’s about creating a culture where protecting the ocean becomes second nature—and where everyone feels they have a role in shaping the future of our planet.”
Zlatka’s journey is a reminder that science isn’t just something done in labs or classrooms—it’s something you live, share, and grow into. And when it’s rooted in your culture and community, it becomes even more powerful.