Ethos of Exploration: Premiering “The Rebel Reef”

Join Hidden Compass for the world premiere of ”The Rebel Reef,” a short documentary from our 2025 Pathfinder Prize-winning expedition!

Hidden Compass is proud to present “The Rebel Reef,” the world-wide premiere of the short documentary film by the winners of our third annual Pathfinder Prize — an $18,000 grant to fund a global expedition in an age when discovery is about understanding instead of conquering. We will also be announcing the winners of the 2026 Pathfinder Prize, chosen by our Allies — members of Hidden Compass: The Alliance — who cast their votes in the weeks leading up to the event.

Earlier this year, expedition leader and local divemaster “Aquaman” Christian Carias, and a team of scientists, filmmakers, and explorers journeyed beneath the waves in Tela, Honduras — a beach town where the corals defy the odds and give us reasons to believe.

The reef's story will be told from the perspective of a Honduran who wants to share the magic of this rare treasure with those who live along its shores. This December, he'll to bring the reef to them — and to you.

On Saturday, December 6, at the New Parkway Theater in Oakland, California, join the Hidden Compass co-founders, Sivani Babu and Sabine K. Bergmann, for the in-person premiere of the short documentary, “The Rebel Reef.” The screening will be followed by a live Q&A with the filmmakers, an immersive VR dive experience, and reception with the Pathfinders. At the event, our 2025 expeditioners will pass the compass as we announce the winners of the 2026 Pathfinder Prize.

Hidden Compass Allies receive free admission as well as a surprise gift celebrating the premiere — check your email for individual registration code and select “Alliance Member” as your ticket option.

Learn more about Hidden Compass: The Alliance, and join us to become a defender of science, history, journalism, and hope.