Empowering the next generation of ocean conservationists.
Around the world, our ocean and its inhabitants face many challenges. As human impacts continuously threaten the health of our marine ecosystems, both locally and globally, it is imperative that we involve youth in a campaign to solve these problems.
The Youth Ocean Conservation Summit, launched in 2011 and held annually at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, as well as satellite locations around the world, provides youth participants the opportunity to learn from marine scientists and conservationists about current threats facing marine ecosystems, both locally and globally.
Through the event, participants are also inspired by their peers — youth leaders who are taking immediate action leading projects to protect the ocean. Attendees then collaborate with peers and mentors to develop action plans for their own ocean conservation projects. Workshops offered at the summit allow participants to gain the skills necessary to successfully implement conservation projects, teach participants about career opportunities in marine conservation, and expose them to opportunities they can take part in to help protect our planet’s oceans and their inhabitants.
For more information: www.yocs.org
Save the Date!
The 2026 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit will take place at
Mote SEA on Saturday, September 12th!
Youth Leadership Team
Are you passionate about protecting our oceans and ready to step into a leadership role? The YOCS Youth Leadership Team is a group of motivated teens who help plan and shape the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit. Leadership team members collaborate with peers and mentors, help design summit activities, and inspire other youth to take action for our oceans.
Students ages 13–18 are encouraged to apply. This is a great opportunity to build leadership skills, connect with other ocean-minded teens, and make a real impact in your community.
