Effective science communication is more than simply simplifying complex concepts; it should inspire dialogue, curiosity, and participation. In this presentation, I reflect on two complementary outreach experiences in marine science. The first involved contributing to the Frontiers for Young Minds Ocean collection with the SILICAMICS Early Career Researcher group, translating research on the marine silicon cycle into articles reviewed by children. The second was a half-day outreach programme on “Ocean and Climate Change” delivered to gifted students (grades 6-10) at the Deutsche JuniorAkademien Summer School in Germany, combining interactive lectures with discussion to encourage critical thinking about the ocean's role in the Earth system.
These experiences highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of communicating complex marine biogeochemistry to non-specialist audiences while maintaining scientific accuracy. I will discuss practical strategies for promoting two-way communication, addressing misconceptions, and making abstract ocean processes more accessible. Finally, I will reflect on how ocean outreach platforms and citizen science programmes, exemplified by the Malizia Explorer and OceanPack-equipped sailing vessels, can strengthen public engagement by enabling people to actively participate in ocean observations. Together, these examples demonstrate how diverse outreach approaches can foster stronger connections between marine science and society.