Young environmental leaders from around the world now have the opportunity to join the 2026–2027 World Ocean Day Youth Advisory Council (YAC), with applications officially open until Sunday, 2 August 2026.
The global initiative is seeking passionate young people aged 16 to 25 who are actively involved in ocean conservation, climate action, and environmental advocacy. Successful applicants will join a diverse international network of youth leaders working together to promote ocean protection, strengthen leadership skills, and inspire action for a healthier planet.
A Global Platform for Young Ocean Advocates
Established in 2016, the World Ocean Day Youth Advisory Council brings together 20 to 25 young conservation leaders from countries across the globe. Members collaborate throughout the year to support World Ocean Day initiatives, share innovative ideas, and encourage greater public engagement in protecting the world’s oceans.
The council also serves as a platform for developing youth leadership while fostering international collaboration on issues related to ocean conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
Today, the Youth Advisory Council Alumni Network includes 173 members representing 75 countries, creating a growing global community of young environmental changemakers.
Who Can Apply?
The programme welcomes applications from young people in any country who meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be between 16 and 25 years old at the time of application.
- Demonstrate previous involvement in conservation or environmental initiatives.
- Have access to a reliable internet connection.
- Be fluent in English.
- Show a strong commitment to protecting the ocean and addressing climate change.
- Advocacy, campaign organising, or community leadership experience is considered an added advantage.
Applicants should also value collaboration and be eager to strengthen their leadership, communication, and advocacy skills while working alongside fellow youth leaders from around the world.
Council Members’ Roles and Responsibilities
Successful applicants will serve a one-year term through June 2027 and will continue advancing conservation efforts within their own communities while contributing to global initiatives.
Council members will be expected to:
- Continue leading conservation projects in their local communities.
- Promote and participate in ocean, climate, and environmental events throughout the year.
- Serve as ambassadors for World Ocean Day.
- Collaborate with fellow council members on campaigns, educational resources, and conservation initiatives.
- Provide strategic ideas and recommendations to strengthen World Ocean Day activities.
- Support awareness campaigns through blogs, social media, and public engagement initiatives.
Programme Commitment
Participants will be expected to actively engage throughout the programme by:
- Serving a one-year term ending in June 2027.
- Attending at least five virtual council meetings.
- Completing three to four advisory surveys during the year.
- Maintaining regular communication through email and WhatsApp.
- Participating in a four-week virtual Youth Leadership Training Programme.
- Supporting regional youth hubs and collaborative conservation projects.
Leadership Development and Global Opportunities
The programme is coordinated by The Ocean Project, which has led global coordination of World Ocean Day since 2002.
Selected council members will receive extensive support, including:
- Comprehensive leadership and advocacy training.
- Opportunities to publish guest blogs and participate in social media campaigns.
- Invitations to speak at national and international conferences, NGO events, and policy forums.
- Practical experience organising environmental campaigns and community events.
- Networking opportunities with youth leaders and conservation professionals worldwide.
- Potential access to future internships, employment opportunities, and collaborations through a global network of more than 2,000 organisations across nearly 200 countries.
Application Timeline
Interested applicants should note the following key dates:
- Applications Open: 25 June 2026
- Application Deadline: 2 August 2026
- Second-Round Notifications: 10 August 2026
- Final Selection Announced: Late September 2026
Applicants shortlisted for the second stage will be required to submit two letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, mentors, advisors, or other non-parent referees.
How to Apply
Eligible young people who are passionate about ocean conservation, climate action, and environmental leadership are encouraged to submit their applications before the 2 August 2026 deadline.
The World Ocean Day Youth Advisory Council offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging environmental leaders to gain international experience, strengthen their leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and help inspire collective action for a healthier ocean and a more sustainable future.
