With the support of her community, her competitive swimming career culminated in Tilali representing her country at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Tilali’s connection to the ocean deepened through studies in Marine Science and Biology at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji. Recognising the interdependence between humans and nature, she became determined to protect the threatened coral reefs of American Samoa. One of seven individuals selected for the prestigious National Coral Reef Management Fellowship Program 2022–2024, Scanlan now works with the Student Conservation Association (SCA) as a coral reef researcher with the National Park Service of American Samoa.

Using her platform as an Olympian, she also advocates for sustainable practices in sports. “As an athlete, these events are surreal and amazing to be a part of. As a marine scientist, it is painful to think of all the carbon emissions from travel and operating costs for these massive events. The feasibility of major events like the Olympics is something we must look at very intently now for the future, and I applaud countries who have done their part to pledge against releasing less fossil fuels into our atmosphere and encourage a better future for our athletes and sports.” Follow Tilali on Instagram for updates.