Ocean Leaders Fellowship

The Ocean Leaders Fellowship (OLF) 2026, developed by the Sustainable Ocean Alliance in partnership with Dona Bertarelli Philanthropy, is now open to applications from early-career ocean and climate leaders worldwide who are ready to influence policy, strengthen marine protection, and advance the global 30x30 agenda. This is a one-year program designed to support and empower exceptional young professionals working to protect and restore ocean health.

The fellowship includes an eight-month leadership development program featuring weekly virtual learning sessions, mentorship and coaching from global experts, peer collaboration through leadership pods, and an immersive, fully funded international leadership institute and conference in June 2026. Fellows will gain the skills, networks, and opportunities needed to create measurable impact in ocean conservation and climate action within their communities and beyond.

If this opportunity aligns with your interests, apply now.

• 📅 Key Dates

  Program Duration: 26 March 2026 - 5 December 2026

  Weekly Sessions: Every Thursday, 8:00 AM PT (90 minutes - 2 hours)

  Age Cutoff Date: Must be at least 28 years old and no older than 35 as of 20 June 2026 (The conclusion of the in-person portion of the Fellowship).

  International Travel Availability: 9 June - 19 June 2026
  Passport validity: Must expire after January 2027

• 👥 Eligibility

  Age requirements

  • Must be at least 28 years old and no older than 35 as of 20 June 2026. (the conclusion of the in-person portion of the Fellowship).

  Location or citizenship

  • Open Internationally to everyone.

  Time Commitment

  • The Fellowship program runs from March 26th, 2026 until December 5th, 2026. A minimum commitment of 5 hours per week on average to participate in Fellowship activities, including online workshops, assignments, and other lecture sessions.

  • Sessions will be weekly on Thursday at 8am PT for 90 minutes to 2 hours.

  • Availability to attend all required program events and activities, including international travel (see below).

  International Travel Availability

  • Ability to travel internationally and be available during the following program dates: June 9 - June 19

  • Valid passport required with an expiration date after January 2027

  • You will be responsible for applying to get a visa for international travel. Note: The Ocean Leaders Fellowship team will cover the costs of visa expenses and support you in expediting the visa process).

  Language Proficiency

  • Applicants should have a minimum of C1 English proficiency as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Applicants should read the CEFR guidelines before submitting their application. This level ensures that participants can effectively engage in program activities, communicate with peers, and contribute meaningfully to discussions and collaborative work.

  Passion for Ocean Health and Sustainability

  • A strong interest in ocean conservation, climate action, or related fields.

  • Commitment to contributing to one or more of SOA’s five ocean impact areas: Greenhouse Gas Reduction, Pollution Reduction, Ecosystems and Species Preservation, Blue Foods, or Ocean Data, Literacy, & Research.

  Leadership Qualities

  • Demonstrated leadership experience or potential in areas related to ocean health, conservation, or climate action i.e. leadership roles in community initiatives, professional projects, academic settings, or advocacy efforts.

  Program Engagement & Project Component

  • The Ocean Leaders Fellowship is designed to support and strengthen the important work you are already doing.

  • In addition to workshops and peer learning, Fellows will participate in a collaborative group project during the program. This project is designed to help you apply and integrate the skills, tools, and frameworks you are learning, while building relationships with other Fellows.

  • The project is intentionally scoped to be additive rather than burdensome, and fits within the overall program time commitment. It is a core part of the Fellowship experience and an opportunity to learn by doing together.

  Adaptability and Collaboration

  • Openness to learning from diverse perspectives and working collaboratively with peers from various cultural and professional backgrounds.

  Technical Requirements

  • Reliable internet access and a device suitable for participating in virtual sessions and completing Fellowship tasks.

  Prior Participation

  • Applicants who have previously attended an Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit or UN Ocean Conference Youth & Innovation Forum will not be eligible for this Fellowship.