Bringing America's Ocean and Great Lakes Treasures to You!

Calling all Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassadors!

Are you a youth passionate about the ocean and the natural environment? Are you looking for a way to develop the skills you need to engage in conservation and stewardship opportunities? Do you want to connect with like-minded youth and become an environmental leader at your school or in your community?

Apply for Cohort 4 of the NOAA Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassador Program!
Applications are due on January 4, 2026 by 11:59 pm Eastern Time.

Download a flyer to print and post at your school or facility.

The NOAA Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassador program provides a new level of engagement for youth aged 13-18 committed to ocean conservation and stewardship of our blue planet. We are looking for enthusiastic youth with new ideas and a unique perspective to learn more about America’s underwater treasures and to share their passion with others. 

What is a NOAA Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassador's role?

• Attend monthly meetings to learn about the National Marine Sanctuary System, threats to the ocean, ocean optimism, NOAA programs and careers, opportunities for engagement, and future leadership programs
• Gain the confidence and skills to lead a project or event at your school or in your local community that supports ocean conservation and stewardship
• Track progress on your school or community project or event 
• Actively engage in discussions with other Ambassadors, post-webinar surveys, and evaluation of program content
• Check and respond to emails in a timely manner
• Complete the Climate Resilience in Your Community Activity Book over the course of the program
• Share your knowledge, passion, and skills with your school or community as an official NOAA Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassador

See how past NOAA Ocean Guardian Youth Ambassadors have made a big impact at their schools or in their communities around the United States and U.S. territories. Together we can make a difference in the conservation and stewardship of the ocean through marine protected areas, and enhanced ocean and climate literacy.