Inside the historic halls of Palazzo Ducale, more than 200 political leaders, youth advocates, scientists, sailors and creatives gathered for The Ocean Race Summit Genova: Nudging the New Ocean Society. Far from a conventional conference, the event was designed as a living laboratory — a participatory forum where young voices and decision-makers shaped ideas together in real time.
Hosted by actress and environmental advocate Bailey Bass, the Summit opened by inviting participants to connect with their “blue mind” — the personal space where the ocean lives within each of us. Through live polling, open questions and shared reflection, the format ensured constant interaction, reinforcing that this was not about speeches, but about dialogue.
As host city of multiple editions of The Ocean Race, including the finales of the 2021 European edition and the 2023 around-the-world race, Genova has strengthened its identity as a maritime capital committed to sustainability. Opening remarks emphasised how the city’s history, economy and culture have long been shaped by the sea — and how its future must be shaped by responsible stewardship.
Mayor Silvia Salis underscored the urgency of youth engagement, stating that young people are not merely asking for change, but already driving it. She highlighted the blue economy as a strategic driver of sustainable development while stressing that protecting marine ecosystems and combating pollution are civic, cultural and economic imperatives.
Marco Bucci, President of Regione Liguria and an experienced sailor, reinforced the inseparable link between sport and environmental protection. His message was direct: without safeguarding the ocean, there will be no arena left for competition. Both leaders pointed to education, community action and youth participation as essential pillars in turning coastal cities into active agents of ocean protection.
Race Chairman Richard Brisius reflected on the evolution of the event from an elite offshore sailing competition into a global platform for ocean science, advocacy and storytelling. He emphasised the importance of trusting young people with real responsibility, noting that empowerment begins with confidence and opportunity.
Marine biologist Mariasole Bianco, President of Worldrise, delivered a keynote outlining both the fragility and resilience of the ocean. She pointed to the entry into force of the High Seas Treaty as a historic milestone, providing legal tools to protect waters beyond national jurisdictions for the first time. Her address balanced urgency with optimism, reinforcing that meaningful global cooperation is possible.
Central to the Summit were two interactive panels that redefined traditional power dynamics. In “Questions from Youth,” students engaged directly with policymakers and scientists on ocean literacy and conservation. In “Questions from Leaders,” roles were reversed, with institutions asking young advocates what support they need to accelerate ocean protection. Real-time voting and audience submissions ensured that the exchange remained collaborative and continuous.
A recurring theme throughout the day was that building a “new ocean society” requires more than awareness. It demands contribution from every sector — scientific, political, creative and athletic. Participants were encouraged to reflect on their own role in shaping the ocean’s future and to submit personal Ocean Action Pledges, reinforcing the event’s participatory spirit.
In the historic setting of Palazzo Ducale, the message was clear: the future of ocean health will not be shaped by institutions alone. It will be co-created — by cities, by sport, by science and, critically, by a generation ready to move from dialogue to action.
