A partnership between Ocean Nexus and Metcalf Institute

Three fellows have been chosen for The Metcalf Ocean Nexus Academy (MONA), a new fellowship program for journalists created by Ocean Nexus and Metcalf Institute, in collaboration with the Uproot Project. This exciting new partnership seeks to advance transformative changes at the nexus of ocean and social justice. Participating journalists, working closely with Ocean Nexus scholars, will deepen their understanding of how our relationships with the oceans are intertwined with systemic inequities, marginalization and discrimination, and exploitation. 

Ocean Nexus is an international research program committed to centering social equity in the ways oceans are governed across the world. With research approaches rooted in intersectionality, reflexibility and critical practices, Ocean Nexus aims to hold powerful interests accountable for their exploitation of oceans and coastal communities. The Metcalf Institute, with its focus on science communication, will help fellows refine their ability to effectively convey research to diverse audiences, from policymakers to the public.

The first annual 2025 MONA workshop will be conducted in person at the University of Rhode Island in Kingston, RI on June 30-July 3, 2025 with virtual sessions preceding the event to connect Ocean Nexus Research Fellows with the journalism cohort. 

MONA Fellowship Goals:

1. Research Ocean Equity: In collaboration with Ocean Nexus Research Fellows, MONA Fellows will examine how current systems of ocean governance perpetuate colonial and discriminatory practices, exacerbating inequities both internationally and locally.   
2. Amplify Marginalized Voices and Perspectives: MONA Fellows will explore how different communities, particularly those historically ignored in ocean policy discourses, experience and interact with ocean issues, and ensure diverse voices are recognized and respected into how these issues are discussed.
3. Strengthen Public and Policy Dialogue: MONA Fellows will play an essential role in bridging the gap between ocean research and the public, using their communication skills to bring attention to critical issues surrounding ocean equity and justice.

2025 MONA Fellows