ThinkOcean Society is inviting motivated young leaders, practitioners, and community organisers to submit proposals to establish official ThinkOcean Chapters in their own countries. Our chapters act as decentralised hubs for ocean literacy, community-led conservation, youth leadership, and policy engagement, grounded in local realities while aligned with ThinkOcean’s global mission.

We are now open to receiving proposals from teams interested in formally representing ThinkOcean at the national or sub-national level.

Chapters may be:

1. Independent, country-based chapters, or

2. Affiliated with educational institutions, including:

• Colleges

• Universities

• Schools (senior secondary level and above)

Institution-affiliated chapters function within their campus ecosystem while remaining aligned with ThinkOcean’s global mission, values, and governance framework.

Who Can Apply

Applications are welcome from:

• Students, researchers, educators, early-career professionals, and community leaders

• Youth collectives or institutional groups committed to ocean and climate action

• Teams applying independently or on behalf of a college, university, or school

Applicants must be based in the country or institution where the chapter will operate.

Chapter Structure Requirements

Each proposed ThinkOcean Chapter must include:

• A minimum of 5 core members responsible for programmes, outreach, and operations

• Two leadership positions, in addition to the core members:

• Chapter Lead / Coordinator

• Deputy Coordinator

➡️ Minimum total team size: 7 members

For institution-affiliated chapters, members should be drawn primarily from the same institution. A faculty advisor or mentor is encouraged, where possible, though not mandatory unless required by the institution

How to Apply

1. Complete the Chapter Application PDF

2. All sections must be filled accurately and clearly.

3. Attach any required supporting information, as outlined in the application form.

4. Submit the completed application (as a pdf attachment) by email alongside a brief email pitch.

📩 Submission Email:

chapter.proposal@thinkoceansociety.org

📌 Email Subject Line:

RFP Submission – ThinkOcean Chapter – [Country / Institution Name]

Benefits of Being Part of the ThinkOcean Society Network

Approved chapters become part of a global, youth-led ocean conservation network and gain access to the following benefits:

1. Funding & Financial Support

   Eligibility for seed funding, programme-based financial support, and assistance in accessing external grants, partnerships, and fundraising opportunities, subject to availability and review.

2. Global Recognition & Affiliation

   Official recognition as a ThinkOcean Chapter, including the right to operate under the ThinkOcean name, identity, and global network.

3. Capacity Building & Leadership Development

   Training, onboarding, and skill-building opportunities focused on conservation leadership, project design, communication, and governance.

4. Global Network & Collaboration

   Access to an international community of chapters and partners, enabling collaboration, shared learning, and joint initiatives across regions.

5. Resources & Strategic Support

   Use of ThinkOcean toolkits, educational resources, and strategic guidance to strengthen chapter programmes and operations.

6. Visibility & Impact Amplification

   Opportunities to showcase chapter work through ThinkOcean’s platforms, campaigns, and global engagements.

Questions & Clarifications

For questions regarding the RFP process, eligibility, or chapter guidelines, please contact:

Mulenga Chilufya

Global Chapters Director

chapter.comms@thinkoceansociety.org

📌 Please note: All applications must be submitted only to the RFP email address listed above.