Cruise Sylliboy Reflects on 2025 High Seas Youth Ambassador Campaign

This blog post was authored by Cruise Sylliboy, a 2025 EarthEcho High Seas Youth Ambassador.

The campaign focused on raising awareness of ocean conservation, the BBNJ Treaty, and youth engagement using education-based outreach, community engagement, and strategic academic-based presentations. Campaign activities included a climate-focused river kayak tour, a professional conference presentation, and a wide range of university classroom presentations across sustainability, ocean sciences, business, and social science disciplines. These engagements emphasized Two-Eyed Seeing, marine species protection in Atlantic Canada, and the importance of global ocean governance.

In addition to in-person outreach, efforts were made to expand reach through community events and traditional media. Two community events were planned but ultimately discontinued due to low attendance caused by scheduling challenges related to holidays, exams, and competing commitments. Media outreach was also attempted through a local radio station with prior connections; however, a response was not received in time for the opportunity to move forward. No funds were lost through these initiatives, as resources were provided through the Indigenous Student Centre and redistributed back to the community.

Overall, the campaign prioritized direct engagement with diverse audiences, particularly students outside of traditionally sustainability-focused programs, to broaden awareness of ocean issues. Future plans include continuing classroom-based outreach, strengthening partnerships with community organizations, and exploring media engagement opportunities when capacity allows.

‍“Being part of the EarthEcho High Seas Ambassador program allowed me to bring ocean conservation and global marine governance into spaces where these conversations don’t usually happen. It pushed me to think creatively about outreach while grounding my work in education, community, and Two-Eyed Seeing. Just as importantly, it gave me the opportunity to meet new people and build friendships and professional connections that I know I will carry with me long after the program ends.”