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Wavemakers programme launched to empower the next generation of ocean champions

Blue Marine Foundation

June 04, 2026

The Wavemakers programme is a new initiative launched by Blue Marine, in partnership with Rituals and Edinburgh Ocean Leaders, to empower the next generation of ocean champions.

Blue Education

The Wavemakers programme is a new initiative launched by Blue Marine, in partnership with Rituals and Edinburgh Ocean Leaders, to empower the next generation of ocean champions. Wavemakers are identified across Blue Marine’s project sites for their exceptional work in marine conservation.  

This is a two year programme aiming to support the Wavemakers to gain the tools, confidence and connections they need to drive lasting change – all in pursuit of protecting 30 per cent of our ocean by 2030. To support our Wavemakers cohort, this programme includes: 

  • Coaching and webinars led by conservation experts: Blue Marine will deliver a series of engaging and informative webinars over two years, covering key areas essential for effective ocean conservation. They will focus on capacity building and knowledge exchange, covering themes such as sustainable finance, ocean education, policy-science communication, media and campaigning, and more.
  • Mentorship from Edinburgh Ocean Leaders: The Edinburgh Ocean Leaders are typically further advanced in their experience than the Wavemakers, making them potentially ideal mentors for advice, connections and inspiration.
  • Media support: Opportunities to work with Blue Marine’s comms team and project partners to communicate the story and impact of Wavemakers’ work, across a range of digital media.
  • International networking: Wavemakers are encouraged to connect with fellow Wavemakers and other conservationists to strengthen their network. These exchanges provide valuable opportunities to develop long-lasting, positive relationships.
  • Participating in major ocean conferences: Blue Marine will provide travel bursaries for Wavemakers to attend international ocean conferences to participate and influence global ocean policy. Examples include, Our Oceans, COP, UNFCC COP, IUCN, UN Ocean Conference, Blue Earth Summit, IMPAC, first high seas COP and more.

Our Partners

Rituals  

Rituals has partnered with Blue Marine Foundation as part of its 10% Profit Pledge, which commits 10 per cent of the company’s previous year’s net profit to support causes focused on the wellbeing of people and the planet. Rituals is supporting Blue Marine’s work to protect 30 per cent of our ocean by 2030.

In each project location we are working with our Wavemakers alongside partners to deploy the necessary combination of scientific research, community engagement, media campaigning and political pressure to unlock new MPA opportunities.   

Edinburgh Ocean Leaders 

Edinburgh Ocean Leaders is an executive leadership programme specifically for young professionals working on the oceans. The programme is designed to accelerate the leadership, creativity and influence of exceptional ocean professionals working together to make a significant positive impact on the health of the World’s oceans. EOL are supporting the Wavemakers programme in an advisory capacity. 

Oceanographic 

Oceanographic is a bi-monthly marine lifestyle magazine that combines captivating storytelling with award-winning photography to bring our blue planet to life.

SeaVoice

Seavoice is an innovative magazine that delves deep into the relationship between culture, climate and water. Through its quarterly volumes, it emphasises the importance of understanding the complex interplay between culture and the environment in tackling issues we face today. 

Blue Marine Foundation

June 04, 2026

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