As a global leader in fisheries and aquaculture research, science is at the forefront of our work. In this new series, we profile our emerging scientists, early career research talents who are already making a significant contribution to fisheries and aquaculture knowledge. Launching the series is Chikondi Manyungwa-Pasani, a small-scale fisheries researcher in Malawi and winner of the inaugural Rosemary Firth Award for her presentation on gender economics.