From the age of two, Samantha Reyes has been captivated by marine life—a passion that has taken her from volunteer work at local aquariums to speaking at the United Nations.

As a youth delegate at the 2024 UN World Oceans Day Conference, Samantha heard a simple truth from oceanographer Sylvia Earle: the biggest barrier to ocean conservation isn't lack of solutions, it's lack of awareness. Determined to bridge that gap, she founded Shellebrate the Seas—transforming complex marine science into interactive, joy-filled education that empowers young people as ocean stewards.

What started as one event in the Philippines has grown into a movement reaching over 700 people across seven events in two countries. Leading 30+ volunteers, Samantha created a curriculum that turns learning into discovery: sharks become a matching game, coral reefs transform into Jenga, and sea turtle crafts teach about plastic pollution. The impact speaks for itself—99.5% of participants report feeling more inspired to save our oceans.

Today, Shellebrate the Seas has evolved beyond individual events into lasting systemic change. The Philippines Department of Education has adopted the curriculum, El Nido Resorts is adapting it for their youth sustainability programs, and schools across multiple countries are running their own Shellebrate events.

Samantha has shared this work on global stages, speaking at the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum, the UN World Oceans Day Bluture panel, and the Be Extraordinary Women's Network. She’s also been recognized by the Irvine City Council.

A Girl Scout Gold Award recipient and senior at Irvine High School, Samantha continues to expand Shellebrate the Seas while preparing for her next chapter. Her mission remains clear: give the ocean a voice that every child can hear—and feel inspired to answer.