Ocean

Film Screening & Discussion

Ocean

A breathtaking journey through kelp forests, coral reefs, and the open ocean, this new, feature-length documentary—narrated by David Attenborough—explains why a healthy ocean is vital to maintaining a stable planet.

Friday, September 12, 2025, 6:00 pm
Doris Duke Theatre, Honolulu Museum of Art
900 South Beretania Street

Speakers: ‘Aulani Wilhelm is CEO of Nia Tero, an organization dedicated to Indigenous guardianship of Earth’s vital ecosystems. Born and raised in Hawaiʻi, she bridges culture, community, and science to advance ocean policy and conservation. ʻAulani helped establish Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and co-founded Big Ocean. She has held leadership roles at the White House and Conservation International, and is a Mellon Distinguished Scholar at Arizona State University.

Mark Hixon: Professor of Marine Biology at UH Mānoa; The Hsiao Endowed Chair in Marine Biology at UH Mānoa, Mark Hixon was recognized in 2004 as the most cited author on coral-reef ecology in the United States. He is an Aldo Leopold Fellow and Fulbright Senior Scholar and has served as chair of the Ocean Sciences Advisory Committee for the National Science Foundation. His TED Talks and TV appearances have covered a range of ocean topics.

Sheila Sarhangi (moderator): Sheila Sarhangi is a strategist, storyteller, and advocate with over 25 years of experience in grassroots organizing, journalism, and communications. She leads the Pacific Islands Heritage and Papahānaumokuākea Coalitions, advancing Indigenous-led ocean protection. A 2024–2025 Obama USA Leader, she’s also shaped philanthropic and media strategies in times of crisis. Sheila lives in Honolulu, draws strength from her Iranian heritage, and writes poetry to honor her cultural roots.

Sponsors: Honolulu Museum of Art, Hawaiʻi Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Institute for Sustainability and Resilience

Co-Sponsors: Pacific Islands Heritage and Papahānaumokuākea Coalitions