The Science Without Borders Challenge 2025 is an international student art competition, organized by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, designed to engage young artists in ocean conservation through creativity. The theme for 2025, "Marine Keystone Species," invites participants to highlight the importance of keystone species in maintaining the health and balance of marine ecosystems. Keystone species, such as sea otters, sharks, or coral species, play a disproportionately large role in ecosystem functionality, and their presence or absence can drastically alter the structure of their habitats. This competition calls on students to depict the essential role these species play in sustaining the ocean’s ecological health.
Open to students aged 11-19 from around the world, this competition promotes not only artistic expression but also environmental awareness. It serves as a platform for educating young people on the significance of marine life and the urgent need to protect these vital species. Participants are required to submit hand-drawn, two-dimensional artwork that captures the essence of a chosen keystone species, reflecting the animal’s critical role in its habitat. Through their entries, students are encouraged to explore and express the relationship between their chosen species and the broader ocean ecosystem.
The Science Without Borders Challenge provides an excellent opportunity for students to be recognized on a global stage. In addition to engaging in ocean conservation, participants stand a chance to win scholarships, with prizes of $500 for first place, $350 for second place, and $200 for third place, across two age categories. The competition also offers a "People’s Choice" award, adding an interactive element where participants can rally support from peers and the public. By combining art and environmental advocacy, the challenge inspires a new generation of ocean ambassadors, making it an exciting and educational event for young artists passionate about marine conservation.
There is no entry fee.
Eligibility
Open to students aged 11-19 worldwide, who are enrolled in primary or secondary schools or the equivalent.
Prize
Winners in each of the two age categories (11-14 and 15-19) will receive scholarships: $500 for 1st place, $350 for 2nd place, and $200 for 3rd place. Additionally, a "People’s Choice" award will be granted, offering a $50 scholarship to the winner in each age group.
