The Ocean Leaders Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded, one-year leadership program offered by the Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) in partnership with Dona Bertarelli Philanthropy. It supports 40 young leaders worldwide who are actively working on ocean conservation, climate action, and sustainability. The program offers training, mentorship, global networking, and hands-on project experience to help fellows amplify their impact and safeguard ocean health.
Benefits
Here are the main benefits of the Ocean Leaders Fellowship:
- Fully funded program (no cost to participants)
- Mentorship from ocean experts
- Leadership and skill-building workshops
- Global network of ocean leaders
- Collaborative group project experience
- Fully funded international travel for in-person training
- Visa support and expense coverage
- Opportunity to influence real ocean policy and conservation projects
Also Check: Dorrit Hoffleit Summer Fellowship 2026 in USA
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the fellowship, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age 18–35 years old (by June 20, 2026)
- Strong interest in ocean conservation or climate action
- Commitment to one of SOA’s impact areas:
- Greenhouse Gas Reduction
- Pollution Reduction
- Ecosystems & Species Preservation
- Blue Foods
- Ocean Data, Literacy & Research
- Demonstrated leadership experience or potential
- Ability to commit 5 hours per week
- Available for weekly sessions on Thursdays at 8 AM PT
- Available for international travel June 9–19, 2026
- Valid passport (expires after January 2027)
- Minimum C1 English proficiency
- Reliable internet and device for online sessions
- Not previously attended the Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit or UN Ocean Conference Youth Forum
Also Check: NTU Global Connect Fellowship 2026 in Singapore
Required Documents
Before applying, prepare these documents:
- Resume or CV
- Passport copy (valid after Jan 2027)
- Proof of age
- English proficiency proof (if required)
- Project evidence (photos, videos, reports, links)
- Personal statement or essays
- Letters of recommendation (if requested)
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply:
- Open the official application form (Airtable)
- Read the instructions carefully
- Draft your answers using the long-form template
- Fill out all fields accurately
- Upload required documents
- Submit your application before Feb 15, 2026, 11:59 PM PST
- Wait for selection results by mid-March 2026
If you are a young leader working on ocean conservation or climate action, the Ocean Leaders Fellowship is a rare opportunity to grow your skills, expand your network, and scale your impact.
Applications are open until February 15, 2026, so don’t wait.
