Making waves: The evokeAG. Groundbreaker diving into seaweed solutions
Alisa Milalia is an aquaculture research scientist with a rich background. Born in Canada, she has Romanian heritage, grew up on the beautiful Kapiti Coast in New Zealand and now lives in Townsville, Queensland.
With a background in Marine Biology and Ecology, Alisa discovered a passion for seaweed aquaculture during her postgraduate studies. The evokeAG. 2025 Groundbreaker is developing sustainable seaweed cultivation methods, recognising its potential to improve environmental sustainability, drive economic growth, and support rural communities.
Alisa Milalia, evokeᴬᴳ⋅ 2025 Groundbreaker.
Tell us about your vision for the future of Australia’s aquaculture industry?
My vision is to advance and promote Australia’s seaweed farming industry through innovative research and effective scientific communication.
By cultivating seaweed, rural communities can create a new, eco-friendly source of income that strengthens local economies and supports livelihoods, while simultaneously benefitting the environment.
By conducting practical research, developing innovative techniques, and facilitating effective knowledge sharing, I aim to support farmers and foster the sustainable growth of this transformative industry.
Can you share your background and what drives your passion for aquaculture?
Growing up on the Kapiti Coast, I developed a genuine love for the marine environment and a strong appreciation for sustainability. During my studies, I discovered the incredible potential of seaweed aquaculture and had the privilege of working with some truly inspirational leaders in the field.
They showed me how this emerging industry can tackle pressing challenges like climate change and nutrient pollution while supporting rural communities.
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Seeing the positive impact of seaweed farming in other parts of the world also excited me about the prospect of bringing these benefits to Australia, where it can drive economic growth and create new opportunities for coastal communities.
What issue or gap does your research tackle?
Seaweed aquaculture has the potential to tackle some of the most pressing challenges we face today, such as climate change, nutrient pollution, and food security. It also creates job opportunities in coastal areas, connecting rural communities to larger markets as global demand rises.
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This industry presents Australia with the unique opportunity to develop a sustainable, high-tech, and valuable economic sector. What sets seaweed farming apart from traditional agriculture is its ability to adapt to environmental changes and relieve pressure on land resources.
However, despite Australia’s rich marine resources and deep ties to the sea, we’ve lagged behind other countries in tapping into the potential of seaweed production.
One of the biggest hurdles for industry growth is the lack of cultivation skills and knowledge required for scaling up to commercial production.
My research aims to bridge this gap by providing practical farming solutions through innovative research and effective scientific communication.
What was it that appealed to you about the evokeAG. Groundbreaker program and what do you hope to get out of it?
I hope being part of this program will provide me with invaluable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to support my overall goal of developing the seaweed farming industry in Australia.
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It’s an excellent chance to strengthen my leadership and communication skills, positioning me to generate further interest and support for this emerging sector.
The connections I build will be key to broadening my perspectives and deepening my understanding of the challenges faced by rural communities.
Ultimately, I look forward to applying what I learn to enhance my research and communicate its benefits for the environment, community, and economic development.
Top tip for fellow aspiring innovators in the agtech industry?
Be resilient! Challenges and setbacks are part of the journey, but it’s important to maintain a positive mindset and embrace the entire process. The difficult times often teach us the most valuable lessons and lead to most growth, making eventual success all the more rewarding.
What is the evokeAG. Groundbreaker Program?
Formerly known as the evokeAG. Future Young Leaders program, the evokeAG. Groundbreakers program was renamed in 2024 to better reflect the innovative and impactful leadership of its participants.
The 2025 program is proudly sponsored by Coles and will empower five emerging leaders in agrifood and related industries, guiding them to present their innovations at the evokeAG. 2025 event in Brisbane on 18-19 February. Participants receive mentoring and a post-event bursary, supporting their goals to enhance rural communities and advance Australian agriculture.
Participants span Australia and New Zealand and are aged between 18-30.
Tickets are now on sale for evokeAG. 2025 to be held on 18-19 February 2025 in Brisbane, Queensland. Following a sell-out event in 2024 we are encouraging delegates to secure their tickets, flights and accommodation early.
We look forward to seeing you in Brisbane for evokeAG. 2025. In the meantime, catch up on the other conversations about sustainability, climate resilience and the role of agtech in meeting those challenges from here.