The National Geographic Society’s Young Explorer Program recognizes and invests in inspirational 18- 25-year-old changemakers who have demonstrated exceptional courage, leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Each year, the Society selects 15 emerging leaders who represent the Society’s key focus areas to become members of the Young Explorers Program.
What Young Explorers Do
From scientific innovation and conservation to education, community engagement and storytelling, our Young Explorers tackle a wide range of issues.
Each Young Explorer receives a monetary award, as well as unique training and networking opportunities, and access to additional project funding. The awardees are selected through a competitive, multi-tiered nomination and application process.
Young Explorers are championing climate change policy at the United Nations, empowering future generations through youth-led organizations, combating illegal wildlife trade using cutting-edge DNA barcoding, revealing environmental issues through captivating storytelling, developing pioneering technologies for wildlife conservation and crop disease management, and much more!
Meet the Young Explorers Making an Impact
These individuals represent an array of backgrounds, identities and experiences and share one common goal: to use their voices and talents to create positive change in the world.
Avery Tilley
Conservationist
Avery, an American and Cherokee conservationist and veterinary scientist, is tackling wildlife diseases through collaborative and culturally relevant approaches.
Brigitta Maria Andrea Gunawan
Ocean Advocate
Brigitta, an Indonesian ocean advocate and founder of 30x30 Indonesia, leads innovative environmental education initiatives to protect oceans locally and globally.
Lucy Houliston
Educator
Lucy, a British wildlife scientist and storyteller, explores and advocates for the appreciation and protection of odd or overlooked wildlife and their habitats worldwide.
Richard Turere
Inventor
Richard Turere, a Kenyan inventor and conservationist, who created Lion Lights — an innovative light system to deter lions and other predators from attacking livestock.
Eyal Weintraub
Climate Activist
Eyal, an Argentinian climate activist, co-founded Youth for Climate Argentina and Tekohá, which aims to empower and mobilize youth as climate leaders.
Gabriela Tejeda
Storyteller
Gabriela, an American storyteller, blends photography, videography and social media to spotlight conservation stories, connecting audiences and the natural world.
