In 2008, Ecuador became the first nation in the world to enshrine the rights of nature in its constitution. These articles, which grant ecosystems the legally enforceable right to exist, flourish, and regenerate, reflect deeply held Indigenous Andean values of ecologically balanced and socially responsible living. They also empower humans to petition on behalf of nature, seeking justice when its rights are violated. 

It is not surprising, then, that the Galápagos Islands — located about 600 miles west of the mainland of Ecuador — are highly protected as part of Ecuador’s Galápagos National Park and Marine Reserve. Scattered across either side of the equator, this archipelago of volcanic islands is home to numerous species that have played a pivotal role in shaping how we now understand the history of life on our planet. It was on the Galápagos Islands that naturalist Charles Darwin made several astute observations that contributed to his theory of evolution by natural selection. 

On July 18, 2025, four Planet Forward storyfest winners embarked on a 9-day expedition around the Galápagos Islands aboard the National Geographic Gemini with Lindblad Expeditions. The students were joined by Dr. Imani M. Cheers, Director of Academic Adventures at Planet Forward, and Jamila O’Hara, its Assistant Editor/Program Coordinator to help guide the students in their stories. 

Throughout the week, the winners worked on brand new stories, reporting straight from the islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela, Santiago, Fernandina, and Rabida, among others. This small group represents a remarkable diversity of interests and focus areas: From highlighting the perspectives of Galapagueño freedivers and fishers to investigating how food is sourced sustainably onboard the Gemini itself, they are telling stories that are important, timely, and rich with unique insights from their adventures. 

This year’s group of travelers also shared their own personal and cultural backgrounds with each other and with the expedition — an exchange of perspectives that enriched all of our experiences onboard. Two of the winners are part of the Ilíiaitchik: Indigenous Correspondents Program at Planet Forward; one student, who has roots in South America, returned to the continent for the first time in over a decade and will be producing a Spanish-language audio piece; a winner from Guam brought his diving expertise to islands in a new region of the world.

Beyond gathering interviews, images, and inspiration for their work, these students embraced every opportunity to engage closely with the archipelago’s rich history, natural wonders, and local communities. Whether kayaking along the rocky shores of Isabela Island, exploring shops in Puerto Ayora, relaxing on the beach next to napping sea lions, or capturing stunning underwater footage while snorkeling, the winners took full advantage of the week’s jam-packed itinerary — and the knowledge of the Gemini’s expert team of naturalists. There was certainly no shortage of awe-inspiring moments during this expedition. 

It is fitting that the Galápagos Islands, which have been pivotal in shaping our understanding of natural history, continue to be an exemplar of truly thoughtful and rigorous conservation efforts. The Planet Forward students not only relished the opportunity to spend time in close proximity to such incredible flora and fauna, but also found inspiration in the deep reverence that the naturalists, crew, and locals all have for the archipelago and all that resides there. This shared dedication to protecting and preserving the biodiversity of the Galápagos can serve as a reminder to us all: Care and compassion for all beings is crucial to the next chapter of conservation. 

The Planet Forward team is incredibly grateful to have had this transformative experience and we hope that the students’ stories will energize and inspire you as well. Just as Ecuador’s constitution puts forth: We must all be guardians and advocates on behalf of our planet. 

Editor’s Note: Lindblad Expeditions, our Planet Forward Storyfest Competition partner, made this series possible by providing winners with an experiential learning opportunity aboard one of their ships. We thank Lindblad Expeditions for their support of our project.