#SeeingBlue aims to train and empower young people in Small Island Developing States to become active protectors of their countries’ most valuable resource, the ocean. As the world’s main carbon sink and SIDS’ primary source of livelihood, healthy oceans are critical to turning the tide on climate change. However, it is a sad fact that there still exists a disconnect between SIDS-based youth and the ocean, as evidenced by the low numbers of them who can swim and by their limited participation in decision-making around the ocean.

#SeeingBlue’s Young Ocean Champion Award calls for project ideas that address threats to the ocean thereby incentivizing young people to reflect on oceans, climate change and conservation. Winners of the award undergo an intensive capacity-building programme to enable them to bring their project to fruition.

Goals: Build a community of Young Ocean Champions Source innovative projects from young people to heal our oceans. Develop and train young people on national ocean agenda through boot camps, advocacy training, mentorship and project accelerators.