Kim Ossi

Two George Washington University students get a full behind-the-scenes experience the Planet Forward Mystic Aquarium Fellowship in Connecticut this summer, from feeding beluga whales to learning about the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of abandoned African penguin chicks. The Planet Forward Mystic Aquarium Fellowship, which intentionally partners a scientist and a storyteller, challenges students to transform scientific marine research into visual and engaging journalism.

Across the street from the Roman Forum and a short walk from the Colosseum sits the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) headquarters, where the 2024 annual World Food Forum was held from Oct. 14 through 18. The Forum invites youth from around the world to engage in dialogue about food, science and investment to advance a global goal of a resilient and hunger-free future.

One of Planet Forward's heroes, Thomas Lovejoy - the "godfather of biodiversity" – passed away in December. Throughout his incredible life, Tom showed us that species depend on one another to survive, that biological diversity supports the web of all life, and that powerful narratives can drive meaningful change. We honor him in advance of the UN's International Day for Biological Diversity on Sunday.