Sharoof was born and raised in Laamu Atoll, Maldives. Although he grew up by the ocean, it was his grandfather, an experienced fisherman who sparked Sharoof’s interest in the marine world.
Sharoof’s journey into the field of marine conservation began at Maldives National University, where he completed a certificate course in Environmental Management. During this time, he met Inan, ORP’s Sea Turtle Ranger Programme Coordinator, and joined him to on nesting surveys in L. Gaadhoo.
Sharoof then interned with Maldives Resilient Reefs, where he was introduced to the world of scuba diving. He became a certified Reef Check EcoDiver and gained hands-on experience in reef monitoring and survey methods.
He then joined ORP as a sea turtle biologist intern through a collaboration with the Maldives Underwater Initiative. During this internship, he developed in-depth knowledge of sea turtle biology and behaviour, the threats they face, and the conservation strategies used to protect them and their habitats.
Recognised for his dedication and enthusiasm, Sharoof was appointed as ORP’s Assistant Sea Turtle Ranger in November 2025. Based in L. Gaadhoo, one of the Maldives’ most important sea turtle nesting sites, he now monitors nesting activity, collects critical field data, and leads education and outreach sessions for local communities.
Beyond his work at ORP, Sharoof is also an aspiring photographer and videographer. He hopes to use visual storytelling skills to showcase the beauty of the Maldives’ natural environment and inspire greater public awareness as well as stewardship – helping people see conservation not as a niche profession, but as a shared responsibility.
