ALFA partnership makes a splash with new Sealaska internship

Malia Towne is getting her boots wet (and maybe a little scaly) this summer as she interns with the Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association (ALFA) in Sitka. She is learning firsthand the importance of building relationships with local fishing fleets and communities through this new internship offered through a partnership between Sealaska and ALFA.

“We want to keep building community,” said Natalie Sattler, ALFA’s co-deputy director and communications and program director. “These relationships, especially with young people, and finding commonalities and areas where we can support each other – it’s critical for the future. In the world of fish, we share a lot, we’re used to serving common goals: healthy communities and fisheries.”

ALFA is devoted to securing sustainable access to healthy halibut, sablefish, and rockfish stocks through science-based fisheries management, collaborative research, advocacy and innovation. Their work to safeguard ocean health and improve the economic viability of small boat fishing is closely aligned with Sealaska’s vision for sustainable seafood and broader vision for more balanced ocean ecosystems. This collaboration with ALFA is part of Sealaska’s ongoing work to support regional fisheries.

“This experience has widened my perspective – I’ve always known that fishing was important to Alaska but working with ALFA, I’m really seeing the impacts of what a sustainable fishing community can be,” Malia said, reflecting on lessons she has already learned this summer. “For communities that don’t have as much access, it can take a toll. Fishing is a way of life and the importance of it goes deep. It’s been very eye opening.”

Malia’s projects for the season include organizing data and inputs from fishermen and community members on climate vulnerabilities in Sitka and beyond. She is also excited about an upcoming collaboration with iconic Alaska artist Ray Troll in response to the ongoing trawl bycatch lawsuit.

Sealaska’s internship program provides career experience and cultural connection for shareholders and shareholder descendants pursuing higher education. Applications open in early October each year and close in January. The program runs from mid-June to late-August. Visit Sealaska.com/careers to learn more.