Theme: “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us, “Youth Rising for Life Below Water in Africa.
In celebrating World Oceans Day 2025, the Black Mermaid Foundation and the Western Indian Ocean Early Career Scientist Network (WIO-ECSN) are proud to co-host the Africa Youth Dialogue, a vibrant, continent-wide gathering of youth voices championing ocean protection and sustainability. This powerful dialogue will spotlight youth-led conservation actions and amplify the role of young Africans in shaping the future of our oceans. This unique event brings together emerging leaders, grassroots changemakers, researchers, and creatives from across Africa to exchange ideas, share experiences, and chart a path forward, all in alignment with SDG 14: Life Below Water.
The Event aims to:
- Highlight Youth-Led Ocean Action Across Africa: Celebrate and showcase impactful youth-led initiatives focused on ocean conservation, coastal protection, and blue innovation.
- Foster Collaboration and Connection: Build a strong Pan-African network of youth working on marine and freshwater issues to encourage collaboration, mentorship, and joint projects.
- Center Youth Perspectives in Ocean Policy: Provide a platform for African youth to share their insights, challenges, and recommendations for inclusive and effective ocean governance.
- Raise Awareness and Inspire Engagement: Use storytelling, art, and discussion to engage broader audiences, encouraging more youth to get involved in ocean sustainability.
- Align with and Advance SDG 14: Ensure all discussions and actions contribute to the goals of protecting marine ecosystems, reducing ocean pollution, and promoting sustainable ocean use.
As we shape this transformative experience, we warmly invite you to register for the event here
When: 8 June 2025
Where: Virtual + In-Country Hubs
Language: Multi-lingual sessions with translation support
Let’s come together to celebrate, amplify, and empower Africa’s youth as guardians of our blue planet. Because the future of the ocean belongs to those who are already rising to protect it today.
