An Evening for Our Next Generation of Ocean Stewards

On Thursday evening, September 24, 2026, CTC Center for Marine Conservation came alive with good food, live music, and conversations about the ocean. A Friend of Coral Triangle Center (CTC) and partners gathered for the Ocean Keeper Club (OKC) Benefit Dinner, sharing a warm evening while learning more about a program that has been connecting young people with the ocean since 2021. Since its start, OKC has engaged more than 3,000 students, helping them explore the ocean, understand why it matters, and discover ways they can become ocean stewards.

The event opened with welcoming remarks from the CTC Board of Trustees, Yuli Ismartono, followed by an introduction from CTC Executive Director, Rili Djohani. The Ocean Keeper Club took center stage as Herni Frilia, CTC Education and Outreach Coordinator, shared more about the program and its work with young people, followed by a quiz that got guests involved.

“Our vision for OKC is to make ocean learning accessible to more children, inspiring them to understand, connect with, and care for our ocean. Starting from Bali, we hope to reach children across Indonesia and the wider Coral Triangle, working together with teachers, partners, and ocean education enthusiasts to grow a community of future Ocean Keepers.” said Herni.

The evening also gave guests a chance to know directly about why Ocean Keeper Club matters and what their support can help make possible. “This is such a well-designed program for kids to learn about the ocean! I can even feel the enthusiasm of the participants just by watching the videos. Well done!” shared Carol Burgemeestre, one of the participants. The pledge session then turned these conversations into meaningful support for OKC, helping the program continue its work to connect young people with the ocean and nurture the next generation of ocean stewards.

Building on the evening’s shared commitment to ocean conservation, we raised funds to deliver a short OKC program for four orphanages in Denpasar and six schools in the Nusa Penida MPA. The program will introduce young people to marine ecosystems, iconic marine animals, ocean threats, and ways to care for our ocean.

A delicious five-course dinner and live music accompanied the event, making for a warm and enjoyable gathering. We are grateful to everyone who joined and supported the Ocean Keeper Club, and to Oost West Catering for providing the wonderful dinner. With continued support from the wider community, OKC can keep creating meaningful opportunities for young people to learn about the ocean and carry that connection into the future.

Writers: Adam Putra, Herni Hastutie, Prama Sima
Photos: Adam Putra/CTC