The waters around Malpelo Island, situated hundreds of kilometres from the coast of Colombia, are home to breathtaking biodiversity. Whale sharks, groupers and hawksbill turtles swim below the surface, with rare species of bird swooping above. As a Mission Blue Hope Spot Champion, Sandra Bessudo runs research expeditions to the seamount twice a year. After sailing for 36 hours to get there, Bessudo and scientists study the ecosystems and species populations. What they learn helps to conserve the island’s marine environment and expand protection in the region.