Invest in the Next Generation

Sustainable conservation across the Pacific requires an adequate pipeline of future leaders. Today’s leaders are helping to build that pipeline through a combination of initiatives that provide intensive mentoring and hands-on experience to promising youth. For example, the Palauan government offers internships to college graduates; the Micronesia Conservation Trust offers scholarships to college students; and the Conservancy’s Hawaiʻi marine program offers fellowships to college graduates. Through these efforts, promising youth and young conservation professionals begin to acquire the education, skills, real-world experience, and confidence to become effective leaders. After 25 years of marine conservation, the legacy of these educational opportunities is evident, with alumni shaping new initiatives, leading major conservation programs, and guiding policy.

“We need people who can actually go deep, who are capable of resolving real issues. I have always provided opportunity for internship for our young Palauan students, so they know that there is a need and they will be properly guided. When I was in Congress, we established a formal training program. Now, most of the lawmakers you see are young well-educated, well-versed, and well-connected Palauans.”

— Noah Idechong, Palau

**Provide Practical Tools and Training**

**Accelerate Learning Through Peer Networks**