Gabriela, 16, from Colombia, has been a passionate advocate for children’s leadership, education, and environmental protection since childhood. At just seven, she joined Barranquilla’s Children’s Cabinet, amplifying youth voices in decision-making. By age ten, noticing the lack of marine biology opportunities for children, she founded Proyecto Acuática, a pioneering program that uses intergenerational dialogue and creative initiatives to teach ocean literacy. Through interactive programs like Guardianes en Vivo, Misión Kraken, and El Océano Talks, Gabriela has made marine science accessible to thousands of children. Her leadership has earned her international recognition, including being named an Agent of Change by the Latin American Network Relato Océano, inclusion in Forbes Colombia’s 70 Future Leaders, and second place at the Ocean Love Innovation Awards (OIA) 2024, supported by the United Nations.

Her impact spans both digital and in-person platforms. Online, she has built a following of over 16,000 across multiple platforms, with her content reaching more than 670,000 viewers globally. Offline, her programs and workshops have engaged more than 12,000 participants directly, including 2,000 children in schools and community settings. Gabriela’s efforts have not only inspired young people to protect the ocean but also influenced environmental policy conversations, leading to new youth-centered recognition in Colombia. Through her vision and dedication, she has empowered a new generation to champion ocean literacy and environmental responsibility.