Why Should Young People Attend Upwell: A Wave of Ocean Justice?

Angelo and Marcela kick off the first Upwell in 2023

At a time when climate change, environmental degradation, and social inequality are increasingly intertwined, many young people are searching for spaces that connect their values with real‑world action. The Upwell conference was created to meet that moment—offering a forum where ocean and climate policy are discussed not only through a scientific or technical lens, but through the lived experiences of communities most affected. For students eager to understand how justice, policy, and environmental stewardship intersect, Upwell serves as both an introduction to the field and an invitation to help shape its future.

REGISTER TO PARTICIPATE IN UPWELL ONLINE

What Is the Upwell Conference?

Upwell: A Wave of Ocean Justice is an annual conference and convening focused on equity, justice, and power in ocean and coastal policy. It brings together advocates, policymakers, researchers, Indigenous leaders, community organizers, and students to examine how ocean conservation intersects with climate change, racial justice, economic inequality, and community leadership.

Originally launched as a policy-centered symposium, Upwell has grown into a multi‑day event that combines:

• Panels and plenaries with national and global leaders
• Skill‑building and breakout sessions
• Networking and mentorship opportunities
• Community storytelling and arts‑based programming

Recent Upwell conferences (2023, 2024, 2025) have been held in Washington, D.C., with both in‑person and virtual participation options, and feature speakers ranging from grassroots organizers to senior federal officials.


Azul rising leaders at the photobooth with (cardboard cutout) Jason Mamoa at Upwell 2025

Why Might Young People Want to Attend?

Exposure to Real‑World Policy and Careers
Upwell offers students firsthand access to people actively shaping ocean, climate, and environmental justice policy—inside and outside government. For students curious about careers in, environmental policy, international development, law and advocacy, or nonprofit or philanthropic work. The conference demystifies how change actually happens beyond the classroom.

Centering Justice, Not Just Science
Unlike many environmental conferences that focus primarily on biology or conservation science, Upwell explicitly centers social justice, Indigenous sovereignty, and community power. Students learn how historical forces like colonialism and racism shape today’s environmental outcomes—and how policy can address those inequities. This perspective is especially valuable for young people who want their careers to align with values around equity and inclusion.

Networking That Actually Welcomes Young People
Upwell is known for being intentionally intergenerational and accessible, encouraging participation from early‑career professionals and students. Attendees often report meaningful conversations with mentors, nonprofit leaders, and policymakers who are open to sharing advice and opportunities. For students, these connections can translate into internships, fellowships, graduate school pathways, and long‑term professional connections

A Sense of Agency and Belonging
Research shows many young Americans feel disengaged or powerless within traditional political systems. Upwell offers an alternative model—one that emphasizes collective action, community leadership, and lived experience as sources of expertise. For students questioning whether their voice matters, attending Upwell can be energizing and affirming.

Practical Skills and Inspiration
Beyond big ideas, Upwell sessions often cover practical topics such as community‑led policy advocacy, integrating equity into conservation programs, and storytelling and narrative change. Students leave not just informed, but inspired—and better equipped to act.


Angelo and the EarthEcho fellows from Guam, Northern Marianas, and American Samoa in 2024

Bottom Line
For a students interested in climate change, environmental justice, policy, or social impact, Upwell is more than a conference—it’s an entry point into a values‑driven professional community. It combines learning, mentorship, and real‑world relevance in a setting designed to welcome the next generation of leaders.

Upwell 2026 is hosted by Aquarium Conservation Partnership, Azul, Green 2.0, and Urban Ocean Lab. The planning committee includes, Center for American Progress, Earthjustice, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Ocean Defense Initiative.