Diversity in Marine Science: Inspiring Youth in Ocean Sustainability
by Cathy
Project Details
“Diversity in Marine Science: Inspiring Youth in Ocean Sustainability” is an all-day conference, run by youth for youth, to inspire youth to engage in ocean sustainability. Youth from all over Greater Victoria had the opportunity to learn from ocean professionals about ocean sustainability, engaged in fun activities such as ideation challenge, and meet other youth interested in the ocean in a fun-packed day!
Project Description
“Diversity in Marine Science: Inspiring Youth in Ocean Sustainability” is an all-day conference, run by youth for youth, to inspire youth to engage in ocean sustainability. Our mission statement was to provide an opportunity for high school aged youth to engage in marine science relating to ocean sustainability in order to inspire more sustainable solutions. Youth at this conference also successfully had the opportunity to learn from industry professionals in the marine sustainability field, gained connections with other peers and felt inspired to lead their change in their school community with newfound support from participants, organizers, and more!
This project has been created in commemoration of the lives of all the victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, including two Ocean Bridge ambassadors, Danielle Moore and Micah Messent. We aspire to carry on their legacy and commitment to making the world a better place by creating long-lasting impacts with a firm commitment to driving positive change for the environment and our ocean. We will never forget the light that Danielle and Micah brought to the world and will continue to keep them in our hearts. To learn more about these two amazing people, please visit: Honouring Danielle and Micah – Ocean Wise. This work is partially funded by the Commemoration Fund for Victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Tragedy.
What was your biggest challenge?
The largest challenge in this action project was budgeting participant and volunteer numbers. We originally only planned for 30 participants, but many people were eager to attend so we ended up having a slightly complex waitlist system after countless last-minute meetings.
What was your most valuable takeaway?
Youth are interested in ocean sustainability and are willing to make a difference, but there must be opportunities and resources to help inspire and foster change, such as this conference! Sadly, some youth who are interested were not able to participate because we were at capacity.
