ResilienSEA EXTERNSHIP

At EarthEcho International, we recognize the power of the ocean as a source of solutions to the climate crisis. We also understand that access and connection to the ocean, and the opportunity to pursue careers that contribute to ocean-based climate solutions, is a privilege that all do not enjoy equally.

EarthEcho International invites BIPOC youth ages 17-20 from frontline coastal communities in North America to apply for the ResilienSEA Externship - a hands on professional learning experience that will introduce participants to the field of regenerative ocean aquaculture – ocean “farming” that restores coastal habitats while creating both economic and ecological benefits. As an externship, this opportunity is particularly designed as an introductory program that requires no previous coursework or experience with ocean science or aquaculture. This is a chance to get your “hands wet” for the very first time! Unlike a project/product-driven internship, this paid ResilienSEA Externship provides participants with an opportunity to learn from and network with professionals, participate in a job shadowing experience, and engage in peer learning with EarthEcho’s Youth Leadership Council to build confidence and competence to take action in externs’ home communities.

Externs will have the opportunity to build career skills in regenerative ocean aquaculture, a critical pillar of the sustainable blue economy, defined by the World Bank as the “sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.” Externship activities include:

  • twice weekly virtual training programs hosted by industry leaders from June – August, 2023;
  • an all-expenses paid 3-day field experience at an aquaculture facility (location TBD) to learn alongside fellow participants;
  • a hackathon-style innovation workshop on regenerative ocean aquaculture to develop projects to implement in their local community with support from EarthEcho and our partners; and finally
  • a Blue Entrepreneurship and Policy Forum where ResilienSEA externs and Youth Leadership Council members will exchange ideas and amplify ocean-based climate solutions.

All externs will receive a $500 stipend for their participation in the program, an all expenses paid field experience in early August (location TBD), and ongoing support and mentorship from EarthEcho and our network of partners.

Expectations for applicants:

  • Be between the ages of 17-20. Applicants who turn 17 prior to August 1, 2023 are eligible to apply,
  • Self-Identify as a Black, Indigenous, or other person of color residing in a coastal community in North America (Canada, Mexico, or the United States of America). All applicants should be able to clearly communicate in the English language.
  • Participate in twice weekly, virtual sessions together with their peers from June 12-August 4 (this is not a self-paced externship).
    Including virtual sessions, externs commit to 2.5 hours of learning and assignments per week from June 12-August 4 to prepare for the field portion of the externship.
  • Travel to and participate in an in person field program with fellow externs to gain hands- on experience learning from experts in the regenerative ocean aquaculture space (all applicants should hold the dates of August 8-14 on their calendar; all travel expenses paid in full by EarthEcho International). Applicants from Canada or Mexico must have an valid and up to date passport to permit travel to the United States as required based on their nationality and EarthEcho International can not provide support in securing passports or visas for travel. Please note: In line with local and federal guidelines, all participants may be asked to wear a mask throughout the event and must provide proof of full vaccination for COVID-19. In lieu of vaccination, participants may provide proof of a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours of the event.)
  • Collaborate with fellow externs, EarthEcho staff, and partners, to develop, share, and work toward implementation of a regenerative ocean aquaculture project in your local community. Again, no previous experience in the field is needed prior to application.
  • Share their learning and expertise built during the externship through a Blue Entrepreneurship and Policy Forum with EarthEcho’s Youth Leadership Council members, collaboratively identifying opportunities to advance ocean-based climate solutions through entrepreneurship and policy.
apply for the ResilienSEA Externship