Mapping Futures: How Black Tech Link's BIPOC Coastal Research Program is Equipping the Next Wave of Marine Scientists
On any given day, the ocean connects us all—but for the first cohort of Black Tech Link’s BIPOC Coastal Research Program, that connection has become literal, educational, and transformative.
Led by Executive Director Elizabeth Cotton, this unique initiative offers two-year and four-year college students from underrepresented backgrounds a rare opportunity: to gain exposure, skills, and mentorship in marine sciences, environmental justice, and—most pivotally—geospatial technology (GIS).
During a recent workshop, students across California came together virtually to explore how GIS tools like ArcGIS and StoryMaps can unlock new ways of understanding environmental data, shaping policy, and telling untold stories.
A Cohort of Change-Makers
The room was filled with ambitious students studying marine biology, oceanography, ecology, civil and environmental engineering, and more—many of them first-generation college students. With representation from institutions like SDSU, UCSD, Cal State San Marcos, USD, and UC Irvine, the energy was vibrant and focused.
These students weren’t just learning—they were actively stepping into a new digital ecosystem, led by Veronique Couté, a National Geographic Explorer and founder of Geospatial Equity Tech and the AfriTech Fellowship. Veronique didn’t just explain the technology—she brought it to life.
“Maps are never innocent,” she said. “They can be tools of bias or tools of empowerment.”
And that’s exactly what this session was about: using maps as tools of empowerment.
A New Lens on Marine Science
The workshop kicked off with grounding exercises to help students center themselves and remain present. Then, Veronique walked them through GIS basics—not just how the tools work, but why they matter.
🌍 From understanding distorted map projections to visualizing ocean connectivity with the Spilhaus projection, students began to grasp the geopolitical and ecological implications of mapping.
🗺️ Through real-time participation in surveys and mapping exercises, they saw their personal stories reflected as data points, and quickly realized that GIS is not just for government or academia—it’s for them too.
One highlight came from former AfriTech Fellow Anne-Sophie, who demonstrated her final capstone project: a StoryMap titled “Let’s Go Dive”—a multimedia guide designed to break down the barriers and fears BIPOC individuals face when first exploring scuba diving.
Her passion was infectious, and her ability to combine marine biology, storytelling, and GIS perfectly embodied what this program is all about.
Pink Pigeons and Personal Journeys
Another standout moment came from Angah El-Kare, program manager at AfriTech, who shared her journey from working with the endangered pink pigeon in Mauritius to building decision-making tools using GIS data. She walked students through the ArcGIS interface, showing how real data and storytelling could come together to create digital narratives with global impact.
Her map comparison between the pink pigeon population in 1987 and 2020 wasn’t just data—it was hope visualized.
Building Tech Literacy + Community
In a space where Black and Brown students are often underrepresented, this workshop created community and connection. The students learned:
How to use ArcGIS StoryMaps to blend science and narrative
How to collect and analyze spatial data
The fundamentals of GIS workflows, data visualization, and decision-making
That there is a network of professionals willing to mentor and uplift them
They also gained access to free GIS licenses, learning resources, and a growing support ecosystem led by Black Tech Link, Geospatial Equity Tech, and AfriTech.
What’s Next?
For many of these students, this was a first step—but certainly not the last. With guidance from Black Tech Link, the BIPOC Coastal Research Program continues to nurture young leaders who will shape the future of marine and environmental sciences.
As Elizabeth shared in closing:
“This is about more than data. It’s about showing up for your community, being seen, and building careers that protect our planet.”
Want to Join the Movement?
If you’re a small business or nonprofit looking to grow, modernize, and get connected to real opportunity—Black Tech Link is here for you.
➡️ Visit blacktechlink.org
📌 Click on the Small Business Mastery Program
🗓️ Book a free session by hitting Talk With an Expert
Your mission deserves to thrive. Let’s make that happen—together.