A Cook Islands environmental leader is one of eight women recognised by the University of Hawai'i as an 'Oceania Star'.
Takiora Ingram, of Rarotonga, is the co-ordinator of the Pacific Regional Ocean Partnership and also an advocate for women's rights.
Dr Ingram says she is glad to be part of a group of women recognised for their work.
"I guess it has given me perhaps even more confidence and listening to the other women - one thing that come through very strongly is that we need to be relentless in terms of what we are passionate about and what we want to change."
Takiora Ingram says she will maintain her focus on marine conservation as the situation is becoming increasingly urgent.
The university of Hawai'i established the Stars of Oceania to celebrate the contributions of outstanding women.
