Propagule

"A propagule, in botanical terms, refers to a plant part, such as a bud, that detaches from the parent plant and takes root to grow into a new individual. When I conceived the title for this photograph, it struck a chord with me as a poignant metaphor. It reminded me of how drawing inspiration from others can serve as the impetus to detach from the old and embark on a fresh beginning. It's akin to planting the seeds for something entirely novel, with the hope that the upcoming generation will follow suit, ideally surpassing what's come before. Representing a minority group within a niche field bears significant responsibility. My peers and I aspire to foster a future where such representation is not a rarity but the norm. We aim to cultivate a new wave of ocean enthusiasts, poised to represent the rich diversity of humanity and extend their influence worldwide. This photograph was crafted within the breathtaking mangrove ecosystem of Shroud Cay, Exuma. There, we spent several hours drifting through the shallow channels, surrendering to the ebb and flow of the tide, as we explored the intricate beauty of this unique habitat."