Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age Requirement: Be 18–35 years old as of March 1, 2025.

• Leadership Experience: Show leadership potential in ocean health, conservation, or climate action, demonstrated through roles in community initiatives, professional projects, academic settings, or advocacy efforts.

• Time Commitment: Commit a minimum of 5 hours per week from March 24 to December 5, 2025, for fellowship activities—including workshops and virtual sessions.

• Language Proficiency: Have a minimum of C1-level English proficiency as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

• Passion for Ocean Sustainability: Demonstrate interest in one or more of SOA’s five ocean impact areas: Greenhouse Gas Reduction, Pollution Reduction, Ecosystems and Species Preservation, Blue Foods, or Ocean Data, Literacy, & Research.

• International Travel Availability: Be available for travel and full participation during key program dates:

  • April 25 – May 1, 2025

  • June 6 – 14, 2025

A valid passport is required. Visa costs and support for expediting the process will be provided.

Applicants who have previously attended an Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit (OOYLS) or the UN Ocean Conference Youth & Innovation Forum are not eligible for the Fellowship.

There are no geographic restrictions to apply to the 2025 OLF Cohort. We welcome applicants of all identities, geographies, and backgrounds.

Exceptions may be considered in unique circumstances that align with the program’s goals. These are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Applications close on February 23, 2025 at 11:59pm PST.

The following materials are required to submit your application:

1. A completed application form.

2. Responses to essay questions about your experience and aspirations.

3. A 2-minute video explaining your motivation for joining the Fellowship.

4. A high-resolution professional headshot.

5. Contact information for two references.

6. (Optional) Supporting documents, such as articles, portfolios, or project materials.

• Length: Maximum 2 minutes.

• Quality: Ensure the video is clear, with good lighting and minimal background noise.

• Content: Explain why you are applying and how the fellowship aligns with your goals.

• Format: Upload to YouTube (unlisted or public link) or Vimeo.

Once your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email.

If you do not receive this email within 24 hours, please check your spam folder or contact the Fellowship team at olf@soalliance.org. 

Sustainable Ocean Alliance defines a 'Young Ocean Leader' as: 

An empowered young person aged 18-35 committed to UN Sustainable Development Goal 14  (Life Below Water) and driving ocean conservation initiatives globally through education, advocacy, and community leadership.

Learn more about SOA's Ocean Leadership Program here.

• Skill Development Workshops: Gain hands-on training in key areas like leadership, collaboration, and storytelling.

• Personalized Mentorship: Be paired with an expert mentor to guide your career and professional growth.

• Global Event Participation: Represent youth voices at international conferences such as the Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit.

• Career Action Plan: Develop a roadmap for your next steps in ocean and climate leadership.

40 Fellows will be selected for the 2025 OLF Cohort. 

The 2025 OLF Cohort will run from March 24 to December 5, 2025.

Fellows must be available for international travel and full participation during the following dates:

• April 25 – May 1, 2025

• June 6 – 14, 2025

The 2025 OLF Cohort will run from March 24 to December 5, 2025.

Fellows must dedicate a minimum of 5 hours per week to participate in workshops, complete assignments, and attend virtual sessions. 

Yes, a stable internet connection and a device (laptop, desktop, or tablet) capable of supporting virtual sessions are required.

If you have limited connectivity or device access, you can request financial support through the application form.

The Fellowship will cover airfare, accommodation, and visa-related costs for required travel dates.

Note: If a Fellow misses a flight, the Fellowship will not cover flight changes or re-purchase.

Applicants can indicate their specific needs in the application form.

Sustainable Ocean Alliance is committed to ensuring all Fellows can fully participate and may offer solutions, including financial assistance for internet or data plans.

• Applications close: February 23, 2025 at 11:59pm PST

• Shortlisted candidates notified: Early March 2025

• Final selection announced: Mid-March 2025

Applications are reviewed based on leadership potential, alignment with Sustainable Ocean Alliance's ocean impact areas, and the ability to fully participate in the program.

Video submissions and essay responses play a significant role in the evaluation process.

Yes! The Fellowship welcomes applicants from diverse professional and personal backgrounds, including those who are unemployed, self-employed, or taking a career break.

SOA welcomes applicants with disabilities and will work to provide reasonable accommodations to ensure full participation in the program. Let us know your needs in the application form.

Applicants must have C1-level English proficiency as per CEFR standards to ensure effective participation.

If you have any questions about the application process or program, please email the Fellowship team at olf@soalliance.org.