The Asia Foundation invites applications for the 2021 YSEALI Ocean Jobs for Sustainable Futures Regional Workshop implemented by the Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Embassy in Timor-Leste.

The virtual workshop will connect 35 participants from across ASEAN and Timor-Leste to build theoretical and practical knowledge about aquatic issues and sustainable economic development of ocean and river resources; expose participants to examples of viable business models for sustainable water resource, aquaculture, and fisheries management, particularly socially-responsible SMEs; develop leadership skills; challenge participants to develop innovative models for simple, cost-effective initiatives to implement in their own communities; and strengthen the transnational network of young leaders across Southeast Asia.

Participants will gain an understanding of sustainable economic development for coastal and marine resources, environmental conservation and resource protection; sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, other livelihood development; renewable energy and socially responsible business practices; maritime law enforcement issues; and leadership development and entrepreneurship. The workshop will include a series of online skills-building sessions, activities, speakers, collaborative group projects, virtual tours of inland aquaculture, river and ocean jobs projects and ecotourism initiatives, as well as mentoring and networking opportunities with leaders from the region and the United States.

Eligibility Criteria

• YSEALI Member
• Aged 23-35 years old (at the time of application and workshop)
• Citizen of one of the following countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, or Vietnam
• Currently residing in one of the following countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, or Vietnam
• Have at least 6 months of work experience or volunteer experience
• Have interest and some experience in marine science, ecotourism, entrepreneurship, natural resource management, community engagement, traditional resource use or other relevant fields.
• Passionate about building communities and have a keen interest in building a network through collaboration and partnership with other Southeast Asian countries
• Fluent in written and spoken English
• Will commit to a minimum of 36 hours of virtual/online sessions from the workshop agenda from June 7 to June 14, including weekend sessions held Saturday and Sunday

For more information, visit The Asia Foundation.