Young filmmakers invited to explore Ocean-Human Rights Connection in 5th Mário Ruivo Award

Portuguese competition challenges youth to showcase Ocean as shared heritage uniting generations. Applications are now open for the fifth edition of the prestigious Mário Ruivo Award – Ocean Generations, inviting young filmmakers aged 14-21 to explore this year's compelling theme: "Ocean: a heritage that unites generations." The competition challenges participants to examine the profound connection between ocean conservation and human rights preservation.

This year's theme emphasizes that protecting the ocean extends far beyond environmental concerns - it's fundamentally about safeguarding human rights. Covering more than 70% of Earth's surface, the ocean sustains livelihoods, feeds populations, regulates climate, and serves as home to ancestral cultures worldwide.

Young filmmakers can submit films up to seven minutes long, competing across four distinct categories, with a €2,000 prize for each:

• Message
• Creativity
• Scientific Culture
• Future

The Mário Ruivo Award pays tribute to Professor Mário Ruivo's lasting contributions to ocean science and education. The competition aims to raise awareness among younger generations about the ocean's multiple dimensions and its crucial role in society, ensuring his legacy continues through new voices and perspectives.

Participants have until September 30 to submit their entries, with films serving as powerful vehicles for exploring how ocean stewardship connects past, present, and future generations in our shared responsibility for planetary health.

The award represents a unique opportunity for young creators to contribute meaningfully to global conversations about ocean conservation while developing their filmmaking skills and environmental awareness.