Ocean Connect: Empowering the next generation of women in the blue economy

Thanks to a Queensland Government Empowering Queensland Women grant, Ocean Connect has launched its Women in the Blue Economy program, designed to equip young women and girls aged 12 to 25 with the skills, confidence and networks needed to pursue opportunities in marine and ocean-related industries. The blue economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean, coastal and freshwater resources to drive economic growth, improve livelihoods, and protect marine ecosystems.

Based on the Gold Coast, Ocean Connect is a not-for-profit organisation that brings people closer to the marine environment while empowering emerging marine scientists to turn their passion into meaningful environmental careers.

The program offers online workshops, coastal field days, mentoring opportunities and career resources, providing participants with exposure to a diverse range of opportunities within the blue economy.

Deep dive into career opportunities

The program means a lot to Ocean Connect marine program manager, Lea Breistroff, who wants to create career pathways for a new generation of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

"I wanted to build the kind of program I wish had existed when I was younger: one that connects young women with inspiring mentors, introduces them to the diversity of careers within the blue economy, and gives them the confidence, skills and networks to believe they belong in these industries," says Lea.

Drawing on her own experience working in the marine sector, Lea understands the importance of representation and mentorship for young women considering careers in STEM and ocean-related fields.

A key goal of the program is to broaden participants' understanding of the many careers available within the blue economy for women. From conservation and ecological restoration to engineering, tourism, science, communication and policy, the sector offers far more opportunities than many young people realise.

"Meeting women who are building successful careers makes these pathways feel much more achievable and helps participants discover opportunities they may never have considered," says Lea.

The program specifically caters to young women during a formative stage of their lives, when decisions about future education and careers are often beginning to take shape.

Through practical learning and supportive networks, Ocean Connect hopes to empower participants to see themselves as future leaders within the sector.

Lea hopes the program will inspire more young women to pursue opportunities they may not have previously considered.

"My hope is that today's participants will become tomorrow's mentors, creating a ripple effect for future generations of women in STEM."

More information

This is one of many initiatives funded through the Queensland Government's Empowering Queensland Women grants program, helping women and girls across the state build skills, confidence and economic security.

To learn more visit Empowering Queensland Women.

Improving economic participation—by removing barriers and creating conditions for women to work, grow and build—is one of the strategic pillars of the Queensland Government Women's Economic Security Strategy.

Read the Women's Economic Security Strategy.