What is UnderBlue?

Founded in September 2026, Underblue Initiatives is a youth-led environmental awareness initiative primarily based in Oakville, focused on protecting and raising awareness about local watersheds. Through education, storytelling, and community engagement, Underblue aims to help youth and communities understand the importance of the waterways around them and inspire action within the community to protect these ecosystems. 

The Story of UnderBlue

My connection with water has always been personal. For years, the ocean and natural environments have been a source of peace, curiosity, and inspiration. This passion grew even further after watching Josee, the Tiger and the Fish and seeing the ocean through a new perspective.

That experience made me reflect on the relationship between people and nature. While there are many incredible initiatives dedicated to protecting oceans and large bodies of water, I began asking myself: how often do we recognize and protect the ecosystems that exist within our own communities?

This question became the foundation of Underblue Initiatives. I wanted to create a space where youth could learn about the watersheds around them, understand their importance, and become active participants in protecting the environment.

Why UnderBlue?

While many initiatives focus on protecting oceans and large bodies of water, the ecosystems closest to us are often overlooked. UnderBlue was created to bring attention to local watersheds and remind youth that environmental action can begin within their own communities.

By connecting youth with the waters around them, UnderBlue hopes to inspire awareness, appreciation, and action.

Why it Matters

Local watersheds may not always receive the same global attention as oceans, but they play an essential role in supporting wildlife, ecosystems, and the communities around them. I believe environmental action begins with understanding and protecting the places closest to us.

Through UnderBlue Initiatives, I hope to encourage youth to explore their connection with nature, raise awareness about local watersheds, and take meaningful steps toward preserving these natural spaces for future generations.