Belizeans from across the country gathered in Belmopan on Saturday, October 24, 2015, to participate in the annual general meeting of Oceana Belize’s members, known as Wavemakers.
Oceana Belize established offices in Belize in 2009. Today, the organization’s largest campaign is to advocate for the protection of Belize’s marine resources from the inherent hazards of offshore oil activities.
In her address to the attendees, Oceana’s Vice President Janelle Chanona shared, “Many countries have already altered or destroyed their marine ecosystems. Belize is a very special place but it is just as vulnerable as everywhere else to human influence. Average Belizeans are already doing their part. Belizean leaders have a patriotic duty to protect the resources that tens of thousands of Belizeans depend on everyday for their livelihoods from the dangers of offshore oil.”
Amber Rivero of the Belize District as 2015’s Wavemaker of the Year
Held annually, the event also affords the organization the opportunity to recognize members from each district for going above and beyond to ensure Belizeans join the conversation regarding management of national assets. To acknowledge her unwavering dedication to campaign goals, Oceana Belize has awarded Amber Rivero of the Belize District as 2015’s Wavemaker of the year.
Special guest speaker was renowned Belizean chef, Sean Kuylen who reiterated his support for Oceana’s goals, commended Wavemakers for their efforts and challenged them to continue to empower their fellow Belizeans with information about the country’s natural wealth.
Founded in 2001, Oceana is one of the largest organizations dedicated entirely to ocean conservation. Oceana’s scientists work in collaboration with lawyers and advocates to assist with protecting and restoring the world’s oceans. Since its inception, Oceana has helped to protect more than a million square miles of ocean. Belizean wavemakers are part of the more than a million Oceana members that support this endeavor.
Special guest speaker Belizean chef, Sean Kuylen
