It’s time to cast your vote!
The finalists of the 2026 Science Without Borders® Challenge have been announced, and now we’re inviting you to help us celebrate their incredible work by voting for your favorites in the People’s Choice Award.
Hosted by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, this annual student art contest engages young people in ocean science and conservation through art and raises awareness of important ocean issues around the world.
This year’s theme, Microscopic Marine Life, challenged students to dive into the unseen world beneath the ocean’s surface—highlighting the tiny organisms that sustain marine ecosystems and make life on Earth possible. From phytoplankton and zooplankton to complex microbial communities, these young artists have brought the invisible to life in thoughtful, creative, and visually stunning ways.
Now it’s your turn to get involved!
How to Vote
Voting for the People’s Choice Award is simple:
🗓 Voting opens: TODAY! Tuesday, April 21
🗓 Voting closes: Thursday, April 30 at 12:00 PM ET
- Visit our Facebook or Instagram pages
- Browse the finalist artwork in each age group
- ❤️ “Like” your favorite pieces
The finalist in each age group (11–14 and 15–19) with the most likes when voting closes will be named the People’s Choice Award winner!
Not only are you supporting the next generation of ocean advocates, but you’ll also get to experience an incredible collection of artwork inspired by the ocean’s smallest—and most important—organisms.
These students have shown remarkable creativity, skill, and scientific understanding, reminding us that even the tiniest forms of life can have a massive impact on our planet.
A Note About Judging
Voting for the People’s Choice Award does not affect the official competition results. Winners of the Science Without Borders® Challenge will be selected by a panel of judges based on creativity, originality, and understanding of the theme.
The People’s Choice Award is a fun way for the public to participate and recognize their favorite artwork.
VOTE TODAY!
So what are you waiting for?
Head over to Facebook or Instagram, explore the finalists’ work, and cast your vote!
Let’s celebrate these talented young artists—and the importance of ocean conservation—one like at a time.
