Get ready to dive into a world of creativity and conservation! The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation is thrilled to announce the finalists of the Science Without Borders® Challenge. This year’s theme, “Marine Keystone Species,” invited young artists from across the globe to explore the critical roles these species play in shaping and sustaining healthy ocean ecosystems.
We were amazed by the response—more than 1,300 entries from 75 countries poured in, each a powerful testament to students’ talent and environmental awareness worldwide. These stunning artworks showcase diverse marine life, from foundational species at the base of the food web and grazers to apex predators and ecosystem engineers.
Every submission brought a unique voice to the conversation about marine keystone species. Most artists focused on a single species’ essential role, keeping its ecosystem healthy, while others portrayed a variety of marine keystone species. After much thoughtful consideration, our panel of judges selected a group of finalists whose pieces stood out for their creativity, originality, and strong connection to this year’s theme.
We can’t wait for you to see what these young artists have created. So, without further ado, we proudly present the finalists in the Ages 11–14 category of the 2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge. Prepare to be inspired by their imaginative interpretations and powerful messages about protecting the species that keep our ocean in balance.
11-14 Year-Old Finalists
"Seagrass Savior" by Kate Wang, Age 14, Canada
ARTIST STATEMENT: Tiger sharks love to eat. They love to eat so much that they are deemed the "garbage cans of the sea." However, their large appetites help their seagrass ecosystems, as they eat animals who, if left unattended, could overgraze seagrass beds and destroy the ecosystem. They also hunt predatory fish, which allows populations of herbivorous fish that manage algae populations to thrive. The shark in the painting swims along peacefully, looking for its next meal, unaware of its impact on the ecosystem. Behind it, there is a thriving, bright ecosystem that it unknowingly helps create. The area in front of the shark is dark, dull, and lacking life. The crumbling rocks and gloomy environment show how the seagrass ecosystem would collapse without the tiger shark. Where the tiger shark has ventured, there is life and light, and without it, the ecosystem is dark, dull, and dead.
Stay tuned to find out who the finalists are from students in our 15-19 year-old category!