Waves of Change: Youth Driving the Global Sustainable Blue Economy: A recap blog by Anna Naylor
The ocean, vast and boundless, holds the key to our planet’s future. This was the main topic of conversation during the most recent UN Ocean Decade conference in Barcelona. To mark this occasion, a group of passionate young leaders and Early Career Ocean Professionals convened for a UN Ocean Decade Satellite Event that would send ripples of change across the globe.
Organized by the SOI Foundation’s Blue Futures Pathways initiative, in collaboration with EarthEcho International, Impact Hub Barcelona, OPJEB, and ECOP Canada, the event was a beacon of hope in the fight for a healthier planet. Aptly titled “Waves of Change: A Youth-Driven Sustainable Blue Economy World Café,” it brought together young minds from diverse corners of the globe to discuss the pressing issues facing our ocean.
Under the guidance of SOI’s Director of Programs, Tara Mascarenhas, and Blue Futures Pathways Program Manager, Anna Naylor, the event unfolded like a lively café conversation. Participants from Canada, USA, New Zealand, Africa, Asia, Australia, South America and Europe gathered around tables, each brimming with ideas and enthusiasm.
The format: a world café-style discussion where participants connected, networked, engaged in dialogue and shared insights on three key questions:
Defining the Sustainable Blue Economy
- What does the Sustainable Blue Economy mean to you or your local community/region/country?
Priorities for Action
- Does your region/country have a blue economy strategy? If yes, what do you see as the top three priorities for young people? If not, what do you feel are the top three priorities that young people could advocate for?
Innovative Opportunities
- Can you share any innovative Sustainable Blue Economy opportunities for young people in your community/region/country?
As the discussions ebbed and flowed, a clear message emerged: youth and young adults are not merely the leaders of tomorrow but the agents of change today. They demanded a seat at the table, not as tokens of inspiration but as valued contributors to decision-making processes. Their voices echoed a call for action, insisting that policymakers recognize the urgency of the present moment.
Moreover, they emphasized the need for tangible support, including fair compensation for their efforts and genuine inclusion in initiatives aimed at safeguarding our ocean. For them, the time for waiting is over; the time for action is now.
Carlotta, our graphic facilitator, skillfully captured the essence of each discussion, transforming spoken words into a captivating digital visual representation. Then, to ensure an even broader reach outside just the participants for this event, Carlotta took from her digital sketches and created a hand-drawn poster showcased in the UN conference’s poster gallery. This vibrant display engaged attendees, drawing them into the important conversations held during the side event.
The event marked the beginning of a series of workshops aimed at amplifying youth voices in the journey towards a Sustainable Blue Economy. With the next installment slated for Canada’s Ocean Week, the momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
In ocean conservation, every voice matters. Whether you’re a seasoned activist or a newcomer to the cause, there’s a place for you in this movement. So let’s dive in, together, and make waves for change. To join in the conversation, click here. Together, we can turn the tide towards a brighter, bluer future.
