The Sea Lab Project is at the forefront of empowering young minds to become the next generation of environmental leaders. As our 2024 season wraps up, we remain dedicated to providing hands-on ocean conservation experiences for under-resourced youth in South Florida, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.

Program Highlights

We have continued to grow, engaging students from Deerfield Beach High School. Through interactive workshops, field trips, and hands-on learning, students have explored essential topics such as ocean health, marine biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change.

• Field Experiences: Students have had the opportunity to snorkel and study local marine ecosystems, gaining firsthand insights into the beauty and fragility of our oceans.
• Art and Conservation: Participants are encouraged to express their experiences and knowledge through art, creating projects that highlight the importance of ocean conservation while amplifying their voices and perspectives.
• Community Engagement: Collaborations with local organizations, including the Rotary Club of Deerfield Beach, have enhanced our outreach efforts, fostering a sense of community stewardship and shared responsibility for environmental protection.

• Capstone Project: An interactive art installation designed to spark conversations on ocean conservation and the impact of marine debris. Modeled after a sailboat to capture the essence of maritime culture, this project highlighted the urgent issue of waterborne trash. Youth participants were actively involved in building and assembling the entire installation.

PRINTED OCEANS CAPSTONE

Impact Stories

• Aiden's Journey: After participating in the program, Aiden from Deerfield Beach High School took the initiative to lead the launch of our community garden, becoming the first ocean-friendly garden certified in Broward County. His leadership inspired his peers to join the effort, showcasing the power of youth action in addressing environmental issues.
• Dawud's Art: Dawud discovered his talent for environmental advocacy during the Sea Lab Project. His artist statements, which focus on marine life and plastic pollution, highlight his passion for raising awareness about the urgent need for ocean conservation. This dedication ultimately led him to become our Sea Lab Summer Intern.

As we look toward the future, the Sea Lab Project is committed to expanding its reach and ensuring that diverse voices are represented in ocean science and conservation efforts.

Our 2024 World Oceans Day capstone project, the community art show Printed Oceans, showcased the creativity and dedication of our youth, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility within their communities.

Looking Ahead

As we look toward the future, the Sea Lab Project is committed to expanding its reach and ensuring that diverse voices are represented in ocean science and conservation efforts. We aim to create more opportunities for experiential learning, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among youth in their communities as we move into 2025.

Join Us

The journey to environmental stewardship is a collective effort. We invite you to support the Sea Lab Project by spreading the word, volunteering, or donating. Together, we can inspire a new generation of ocean advocates who will drive innovative and equitable solutions for a sustainable future.

We thank the City of Deerfield Beach Teen Center and the Rotary Club of Deerfield Beach for their invaluable support and collaboration. We also extend our gratitude to the Everglades Foundation, Jane Goodall Roots and Shoots and the community support from WhatSub, Jerry's Artarama, Dixie Divers and the Fruitful Field. Their contributions have been essential in advancing our mission and enriching the experiences of our participants.