U.S. ocean protection ambassadors

The future sustainability of life on earth and the health of our planet is inextricably linked to the health of our ocean. Global concern regarding environmental degradation and anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems has led to urgent calls for countries to meaningfully protect at least 30% of the ocean by 2030 (30x30) to preserve what remains of ocean biodiversity and restore the ocean to abundance. Activating and engaging youth is key to building a durable conservation movement that can move with the speed and audacity needed to transform the future, and EarthEcho International is at the forefront of that work supporting 30x30.  

Over the last four years, EarthEcho’s U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassador program has equipped young people with the tools, resources, and support to lead creative campaigns to advance and strengthen community-led marine protected area efforts across the United States. Building on this work and responding to both the opportunities and threats facing marine protected areas in the U.S., the 2026 U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassador program will equip six youth leaders, ages 17–22, with the training, support, and funds to 1) develop and launch campaigns mobilizing community support for key regional marine protected area proposals, protections, and/or enhanced management and 2) collaborate with their peers in the program to defend key environmental laws and ocean protection in the United States.

    Webinar Featuring Campaign Highlights from the 2024 U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassadors

    Meet our 2026 Ocean Protection Ambassadors below
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    Ocean Protection Ambassadors FAQs

    What is the Ocean Protection Ambassador program? 

    Since 2021, EarthEcho has equipped Ocean Protection Ambassadors with training, funding, and tools needed to lead advocacy efforts that have helped establish the global goal of protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030. Working in coordination with a network of community partners, Ambassadors have advanced campaigns supporting the establishment of new marine protected areas and efforts to enhance the quality of existing protected areas in key regions around the world. 

    Through this paid experience Ambassadors will:

    • Receive training and support from EarthEcho International to develop and execute a campaign
    • Gain mentorship from a network of ocean policy focused organizations
    • Participate in an all expenses paid in person program kick-off and advocacy experience at Capitol Hill Ocean Week in Washington D.C. June 1–5, 2026

    Who can participate in the Ocean Protection Ambassador program? 

    The 2026 U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassador program is open to six youth leaders, ages 17–22, that reside within the United States.

    What are the key dates for the program? 

    • Program duration: May 2026–December 2026
    • Compensation: $3,000 USD
    • Eligibility: Youth (ages 17-22) based in American Samoa, Alaska, California, Georgia, Hawai’i, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, or South Carolina for the duration of the program timeframe.

    How do I submit an application?

    Applications for the 2026 Ocean Protection Ambassadors are now closed.

    ‍What are other ways I can connect with EarthEcho International?

    Be sure to connect with us via social media on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to learn the latest about our work and opportunities for young conservation leaders. Be sure to join GenSea for the latest updates and opportunities from EarthEcho for young ocean leaders!

    Questions about the 2026 U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassador program? Contact EarthEcho International's Director of Youth Engagement, Sean Russell, at srussell@earthecho.org.

    Applications for the 2026 Ocean Protection Ambassadors are now closed. Stay tuned for the announcement of our next Ambassador cohort!

    Questions about the 2026 U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassador program? Contact EarthEcho International's Director of Youth Engagement, Sean Russell, at srussell@earthecho.org.