Launching a Ocean Advocate summit to bring together those passionate about the ocean to inspire and provide paths to take action
Swimmers, surfers, sea-lovers, artists, educators and anyone else who cares about our oceans came together for the first Ocean Advocate Summit in February. It was the idea of Love Her Wild founder Bex Band and adventurer, conservationist Catherine Edsell. Bex got in touch with the Alpkit Foundation looking for some support to help kick start the event.
"We wanted to create an event that brought together inspirational talks and smaller hands-on workshops. Plus time in-between to network with others and to get to know some of the UK's leading ocean charities. Learn about exciting conservation projects. Hear from grassroots advocates. Connect with organisations looking for volunteers. And leave with new tangible skills."
We were delighted to put forward a grant of £300 towards help with initial starting costs.
They were aiming for 200 attendees all of whom they were hoping would leave with inspiration to get more involved in ocean conservation, hands-on, tangible skills that will help them do this and also connections with individuals and organisations.
Well Bex got back in touch following the event to let us know how it went, and it certainly sounded like a huge success - they had the 200 attendees (sell out event), 25 charities and eco-entreprenuers exhibiting, 4 ocean artists displaying their artwork and 25 founder, researcher and advocate speakers.
"Via the Summit, we fostered connection, built knowledge and enhanced skills, empowering individuals to take meaningful action in protecting our marine environments. By equipping people with the tools and confidence needed to make a difference, we aim to build a community of ocean advocates in the UK who are committed to safeguarding the ocean for future generations."
It doesnt sound like it's stopping at this either, with the next event is already being planned. With the ultimate goal of using it as a stepping stone towards either volunteering on existing projects or launching peoples own grassroots projects, it certainly sounds like it worked.
"attendees reported back that the event was an amazing opportunity to network. Dozens of attendees signed up to support charities either with funding or volunteering, and we also had a couple report they are now pursuing careers in conservation off the back of the Summit."
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