HE travelled half way across the world to share his knowledge and experience in managing marine resources with coastal communities in Fiji.
And after spending two weeks learning about conservation methods, Andriamalamala Gildas will return to Madagascar today with an open mind.
The 27-year-old caught seven flights from his home in south west Madagascar, an island nation off the southeastern coast of Africa, to work on marine resources in Fiji.
He is perhaps the first Madagascar national to come to Fiji.
Mr Gildas works for a non-government organisation, Blue Ventures, an international marine conservation organisation.
"This is my first trip to Fiji and I came to share lessons and experiences from home about marine and resource conservation," he said.
"Fiji is more developed compared to Madagascar and the environment is very green unlike what we have back home.
"Most of the communities in coastal regions are dependent on the coral reef for survival so I came to share my experience with the community in Fiji."