Apply to our Blue Minds Academy
Your Impact Journey Starts Here
Applications Close April 10, 2026
Application Deadline
Email alyssa@surfersforclimate.org.au with any application questions.
What to Expect
The Blue Minds Academy is a selective 8-week national program supporting 15 young Australians to develop and launch an environmental project.
Through workshops, mentorship, and collaboration with inspiring ocean leaders, you’ll turn your idea into something real.
Over the course of the program, you’ll take part in weekly interactive workshops with the Blue Minds team, receive personalised mentorship from experienced ocean changemakers, and build your mental resilience and wellbeing. You’ll hear from leading environmental innovators, scientists and storytellers, and get hands-on support to develop and launch your project.
Why Blue Minds Academy exists
Two-thirds of young Australians say environmental concerns are negatively impacting their wellbeing and outlook on the future. Yet many young people who care deeply about the environment don’t know where to start when it comes to taking action.
Blue Minds Academy was created to bridge that gap. The program gives young Australians the mentorship, community and practical tools to turn their passion for the environment into real projects that create change in their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
This Academy is 100% free, and we aim to help introduce your project and idea to funding sources for greater support.
Participants will develop practical skills in leadership, project development, storytelling and environmental action. Students will receive mentorship from experienced changemakers, connect with other young ocean leaders across Australia, and finish the program with a clear action plan to bring their idea to life.
The program is open to young Australians aged 14 - 22 who are passionate about protecting the ocean and creating positive change in their communities. Students should have an idea for a project they would like to develop, whether it’s a campaign, community initiative, business idea, research project or creative storytelling concept.
Places in the Blue Minds Academy are limited to a small national cohort to ensure each participant receives meaningful mentorship and support. Each intake selects around 15 students from across Australia, creating a tight-knit community of motivated young people committed to taking action for the ocean. There will be multiple intakes throughout the year.
The Blue Minds Academy runs over 8 weeks, with a weekly 90-minute online workshop bringing the cohort together to learn from mentors and guest speakers. In addition to the workshop, students should expect to spend around 1-2 hours per week developing their idea or project, applying what they learn, and connecting with mentors or other participants.