To all Ocean leaders with an interest in Ocean Affairs, we are here with an exciting international fellowship opportunity that you should not miss out on! Applications are open for the Ocean Leaders Fellowship Program 2026. A prestigious, fully funded fellowship programme organized by the Sustainable Ocean Alliance in partnership with Dona Bertarelli Philanthropy serves as a global leadership program that aims to empower Ocean leaders and support them in their efforts to restore and protect Ocean health.
It’s an annual program that invites 40 early-career climate leaders from across the world, equips them with tactical skills, leadership opportunities, and valubale networks to advance ocean-related initiatives. The fellowship duration is 8 months, and includes virtual training, along with a 12-day international trip to Kenya from June 9-19, 2026. The fellowship is centered on the 30×30 initiative that focuses on protecting 30% of the Ocean by 2030.
Young leaders aged between 18 and 35 years with a strong interest in climate action, regardless of any academic or professional backgrounds, are invitied to apply. No application fee is associated with the fellowship; applicants need to submit their applications online via the official portal. Last date for application submission is February 15, 2026. Read more details below.
Ocean Leaders Fellowship Program 2026 in Kenya: Overview
| Program Name | Ocean Leaders Fellowship 2026 |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Kenya |
| Organized By | Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) |
| Eligible Countries | Open to applicants from all countries |
| Number of Awards | 40 Fellows |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Application Deadline | February 15th, 2026 |
Also, Check: Dorrit Hoffleit Undergraduate Research Scholarship 2026 at Yale University
Fellowship Coverage
Selected individuals will recieve full financial support for the international trip to Kenya. The coverage includes
- Round-trip air travel coverage
- Accommodation
- Meals during your stay
- Visa fees coverage
- Program fees for virtual and in-person trainings
Benefits
- Intensive training on leadership development and ocean governance
- Mentorship and guidance from Ocean & climate professionals
- Networking opportunities with peers and experts in Ocean affairs
- Opportunity to attend an international conference in Kenya
- Work on the 30×30 Initiative goal to secure 30% of the ocean by 2030
Eligiblity Criteria
Individuals meeting the following criteria are invitied to apply:
- The Ocean Leaders Fellowship is open to all nationals
- Age requirement: 18 to 35 years old by June 20, 2026
- Fluency in the English language (Minimum C1 level)
- Demonstrate leadership qualities in areas related to Ocean health
- Commit to full-time participation in the programme
- Available during the international trip dates
- Individuals previously participated in the fellowship are not eligible
Important Dates:
- Application Deadline: February 15th, 2026
- Program Dates: March 26 – December 5, 2026
- International Conference in Kenya: June 9-19, 2026
Also, Check:
How to Apply?
The application process for the 2026 Ocean Leaders Fellowship is online via offical portal. Interested applicants meeting the required criteria need to visit the official link mentioned below, click on the online application form, complete the application, and submit. For more details, visit the offical link below.
OCEAN LEADERS FELLOWSHIP OFFICIAL LINK
