The NEXTies: Earth & Sea
Schedule
Fri Oct 03 2025 at 05:30 pm to 09:00 pm
UTC-07:00Location
Seymour Marine Discovery Center | Santa Cruz, CA
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The Seymour Marine Discovery Center and Event Santa Cruz invites you to a NEXTies spinoff event. The NEXTies: Earth & Sea: Science and Solutions in Santa Cruz is a dynamic, environmentally focused awards show that brings together changemakers, ocean lovers, and innovators for an unforgettable evening of recognition and inspiration.Set against the stunning backdrop of Monterey Bay, The NEXTies: Earth & Sea celebrates the people and projects driving environmental progress—from conservation and community science to sustainable design and education.
Aimed at a new generation of changemakers, this high-energy event invites guests to experience science in action while celebrating individuals and organizations who are making a difference right here on the Central Coast.
“Our community is full of brilliant minds solving real world problems—this event is about lifting them up,” says Jonathan Hicken, Executive Director of the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. “We’re blending science with celebration, because change happens when we’re full of hope.”
Scientist - Andrew Fisher
"The Brainwave Award"
For groundbreaking research, innovation, or scientific discovery.
Invention / Inventor - SwellCycle
"The Spark Award"
Honoring inventive minds who ignite change.
Green Business - Javier Zamora
"Eco Impact Award"
Recognizing sustainable business practices with big results.
Youth / Grom - Hazel Campbell
"The Rising Star Award"
Celebrating young changemakers shaping the future.
Adventurer - "The Trailblazer Award" - Sarah Newkirk
For pushing limits and exploring new frontiers—on land, sea, or spirit.
Community Organizer - Robert Mazurek
"The Catalyst Award"
Honoring those who unite, empower, and uplift communities.
Projects - Darryl Wong, Gage Dayton
"The Big Idea Award"
For bold initiatives making real-world impact.
Farr Lifetime Achievement Award - Tiffany Wise-West
Event Highlights:
Live award ceremony honoring local innovators and community leaders.
Immersive exhibits featuring an aquarium, cutting-edge ocean science and climate solutions.
Local bites, drinks and crafts from sustainably focused vendors.
Live music to keep the party going by James Durbin and The Lost Boys.
“The NEXTies have always been about celebrating the people shaping the future of our community. With The NEXTies: Earth & Sea, we’re shining a light on environmental innovators who are not only dreaming big but taking bold action.” — Matthew Swinnerton, Founder, Event Santa Cruz
📍 When & Where:
Friday, October 3, 2025 at 5:30 PM
Seymour Marine Discovery Center, Santa Cruz, CA
Whether you’re a scientist, surfer, designer, or simply curious about the planet, The NEXTies: Earth & Sea offer an exciting night of connection, celebration, and possibility.
🌱 Tickets on Sale Now: https://seymourprivateevents.company.site/The-NEXTies-Earth-&-Sea-Ticket-p778124570
Follow the journey: @seymourcenter @eventssantacruz | #TheNEXTiesEarthandSea
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Where is it happening?
Seymour Marine Discovery Center, 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA 95060-5794, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays: