FROM VISION TO REALITY: Empowering the next generation of ocean researchers.

I’m not a scientist myself, but I’ve spent nearly two decades working with and supporting young researchers in many different ways. Over that time (especially in the last ten years) I’ve taken immense personal pride in helping young scientists pursue their research. Whether it meant setting up field or lab experiments, helping grind samples, driving buses across Australia for training and capacity-building programs, filming interviews, demonstrating field techniques, or managing flight bookings, the task never really mattered to me. What mattered was the opportunity to help someone do something that mattered deeply to them, and in turn, to their communities. That’s the part I’ve always loved, and it’s why working with young researchers continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of my career.

September 2025, Negombo, Sri Lanka - This month marked a particularly special moment in my professional journey. I took a major step forward with my new business (Blue Logistical Solutions), managing annual conferences for both the IORA Blue Carbon Hub and the International Blue Carbon Scientific Working Group. Just as meaningful, I had the privilege of watching an exceptional group of young researchers present their science to some of the most influential leaders in global Blue Carbon research.

As I listened over the following days, I was struck not only by the quality of the science being presented, but by the confidence, collaborative spirit, and passion with which these young researchers spoke about their work. Many were early in their careers, yet they articulated complex ideas with clarity and conviction, grounded firmly in the realities of their local communities and ecosystems. It was a powerful reminder that the future of Sri Lankan science is not only in safe hands, but in deeply thoughtful ones.

Watching these researchers step confidently into the global Blue Carbon community reinforced something I’ve long believed: impact is not only measured by publications or policies, but by people. By investing time, trust and practical support in the next generation, we help ensure that important work continues thoughtfully, inclusively and with real-world relevance.

As I boarded the long flight home, I found myself reflecting on just how inspired I felt, and I couldn't stop thinking about how I could do more practically and meaningfully to support young scientists in carrying out their research. What stayed with me most was the remarkable extent of what young scientists from developing nations were able to achieve, often with very limited resources. That reflection became more than just a feeling of inspiration, it became a call to action! If these young researchers could accomplish so much with so little, then even a small amount of additional support had the potential to make a meaningful difference. From that realisation, the Blue Capacity Grants Program was born: a simple, practical initiative designed to provide early-career researchers, with the modest but vital resources they need to continue their work, build confidence, and create impact in their own communities.

2026 marks the beginning of that commitment becoming real. This year, the Blue Capacity Program officially takes its first steps, small in scale, but grounded in purpose. It represents more than just financial support; it’s a way of standing alongside young scientists who are already doing extraordinary work, often under challenging circumstances. My hope is that, in some small way, these grants help remove a barrier, open a door, or buy a little more time for ideas to grow. If they can help even a handful of emerging researchers continue their work and strengthen their impact, then this journey will have been more than worth it.

Mark Wilson