ANNOUNCING 2025 SCIENCE WITHOUT BORDERS® CHALLENGE SEMI-FINALISTS

ANNOUNCING 2025 SCIENCE WITHOUT BORDERS® CHALLENGE SEMI-FINALISTS – AGES 15-19

March 20, 2025

Written by Amy Heemsoth

The moment has arrived! After unveiling the semi-finalists in the 11-14 year-old category, we are now excited to introduce the talented young artists who made it to the semi-finals in the 15-19 year-old category of the 2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge.

This year’s theme, “Marine Keystone Species,” challenged students to create artwork featuring marine keystone species and showcase their vital role in maintaining marine ecosystems. The incredible submissions we received not only display artistic excellence but also help raise awareness about the importance of these species in keeping our oceans balanced and thriving.

With over 600 entries in this category, selecting the semi-finalists was no easy feat. Our judges carefully reviewed each piece before selecting 34 outstanding artworks from students representing 9 different countries. These young artists illustrated a remarkable variety of marine keystone species, including orcas, hydrothermal vent tube worms, sharks, krill, walrus, and giant clams. Their use of different artistic styles, techniques, and media brought these species to life.

Now, it’s time to celebrate their talent and dedication. Meet our 15-19 year-old semi-finalists:

2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge Semi-Finalists (15-19 years old):

“Sea Cucumbers Protecting Coral Reef Ecosystem” by Anano Dolidze, Age 16, Georgia

Ten Years of B.A.M.: Rooted in Partnership, Growing in Purpose

Ten years ago, the Bahamas Awareness of Mangroves (B.A.M.) program began with a simple but meaningful commitment: to connect Bahamian students with the mangrove ecosystems that shape and protect their island home.

Since 2015, B.A.M. has been implemented in partnership with Friends of the Environment, whose dedication to environmental stewardship in Abaco has made this program possible year after year. Together, we have worked alongside Patrick J. Bethel High School and Forest Heights Academy to bring hands-on mangrove science into classrooms and out into the field.

What makes ten years remarkable is not just longevity — it is consistency…

From Mangrove Mud to Meaningful Work: Desta’s J.A.M.I.N. Journey

Some students I remember for their grades, their quick answers, or a moment that made the whole class laugh. Others I remember for the way they stepped into the mangroves.

Desta was the kind of student who thrived outdoors. While some students hesitated at the edge of the mud, he walked right in. And when he inevitably got stuck — because everyone does — he didn’t get frustrated. He laughed. Covered in mud, holding mangrove propagules in his hands, he embraced the experience fully.

Even then, it was clear that he was connecting with the environment in a way that went beyond the lesson plan…

2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge Semi-Finalists (15-19 years old):

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Ten Years of B.A.M.: Rooted in Partnership, Growing in Purpose

From Mangrove Mud to Meaningful Work: Desta’s J.A.M.I.N. Journey