Bow Seat’s True Blue Fellowship

We admire that you want to tackle an ocean, waterways, and/or climate change  issue in your community, and we’re excited to learn more about your project idea! The first step to a successful application is to familiarize yourself with the Fellowship’s rules, eligibility requirements, and objectives. Applications are due on September 1st at 11:59PM EDT.

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Rules & Eligibility

Who May Enter

  • This program is open to young people worldwide ages 13-24; however, applications must be in English.
  • Proof of age, identity, or eligibility may be required after application submission.
  • Applications may be submitted by an individual or by a group of unlimited size. Groups must select one group leader to serve as the primary contact. 
  • Projects may be new or emerging (no older than 2 years).
  • Projects utilize the creative arts as its primary method to enact change.
  • Projects are related to safeguarding the ocean, waterways, and/or the climate.
  • Only one application per youth is permitted. However, youth may submit to other Bow Seat programs such as the Ocean Awareness Contest.

Selection and Disclaimers

  • Decisions of the selection committee members are final.
  • Applications will be evaluated based on how well the project: 
    • Aligns with the Fellowship Program’s goals; 
    • Demonstrates issue knowledge; 
    • Is thoughtful in its approach; 
    • Is realistic in its goals (which includes the demonstration of an appropriate budget and timeline); and 
    • Is likely to result in measurable impacts.
  • Selected Fellows and their adult supporters will be notified via email before they are publicly announced by Bow Seat.
  • Fellows will be required to verify their eligibility by completing, signing, and returning an Affidavit of Eligibility/Liability Release, and, where lawful, a Publicity Release within five (5) business days of attempted notification. 
  • Fellows under 18 years of age must have their parent/legal guardian sign and complete the Affidavit of Eligibility/Liability Release and, where lawful, the Publicity Release on their behalf.
  • Fellows agree to work closely with Future Blue Youth Council (FBYC) mentors, Bow Seat staff, and partners.
    • This includes calls at least once a month with FBYC mentors as well as informal check-ins via an online WhatsApp chat community, and emails when required. Fellows are expected to respond promptly to all communications.
  • Fellows will be required to submit quarterly reports including a mid-year and end-of-year report that detail project updates, successes, key learnings, and expenses incurred.
  • Fellows will support their Future Blue Youth Council mentors with developing a blog post about the project.
  • Fellows agree to participate in a virtual weekend orientation on Saturday, January 4th 2025, cohort meetings every other month, and capacity building workshops.
  • Bow Seat and the Future Blue Youth Council reserve the right to use Fellows’ work for marketing and promotional purposes in any and all media.
  • Bow Seat and the Future Blue Youth Council promise to administer the Fellowship fairly, ethically, and with integrity.

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