In early February 2021, a diverse group of scientists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, explorers, artists, and athletes gathered once again on Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island with a mission to protect the ocean.
The Ultramarine Ocean Summit brought together this eclectic group with a singular focus: taking action on ocean conservation. Luminaries including Sylvia Earle, former President of Kiribati Anote Tong, Ayana Johnson of Ocean Collectiv, John Vermilye of Gallifrey Foundation, Debbie Kinder of Blue Ocean Institute and others presented the urgent issues, opportunities, new findings, and top priorities to be addressed in the effort to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030.
Event organizers Susi Mai, professional kiteboarder and ocean conservationist, and Jeremy McKane, Lucid Project and Ocean Currency Network founder, formed the group with the goal of creating a community, not a conference.
While the event was brief, the bonds formed among the members are strong, and already producing results.
The next gathering where this community will meet is at the Cabarete Kite Festival, celebrating watersports and conservation in Susi's hometown in the Dominican Republic.
Ocean Summit 4 is scheduled for January 30 - February 5, 2022, when the group will return to Necker Island to welcome new members, track accomplishments and set new goals.