Last week in San Pedro was one of those feel-good stretches that reminds you exactly why this island is so special – celebration mode. From music and youth achievements to environmental awareness and powerful recognition of women in our community, there was plenty to celebrate across Ambergris Caye.
Mighty Blue Jaguars Take the Stage
Big congratulations go out to the San Pedro Roman Catholic School Marching Band, the Mighty Blue Jaguars, who proudly captured first place in the School Band Category during Band Fest. Their performance was more than just music, it was discipline, teamwork, and pride on full display. Moments like this continue to highlight the talent and dedication coming out of our schools, and it’s always inspiring to see our young people shine.
Earth Hour Brings Families Together
Flamboyant Park came alive for Earth Hour, turning a global movement into a community celebration. Families gathered for an evening filled with music, dance, and a shared message of caring for our planet.
It wasn’t just about switching off lights, it was about switching on awareness. Events like this show how San Pedro continues to embrace sustainability while keeping it fun, engaging, and family-friendly. (pics by San Pedro Town Council)
Welcoming a New Wave of Tour Guides
Tourism is the heartbeat of our island, and this week we welcomed a new cohort of licensed tour guides ready to represent Belize.
These individuals are more than just guides, they are storytellers, ambassadors, and the first impression many visitors will have of our country. Seeing them step into this role is a big win for the tourism industry and for the future of San Pedro.
Honoring Women Who Inspire Change
One of the most meaningful highlights of the week was the Champions of Change Awards 2026, held in celebration of Women’s Month. Presented by Councilor Dianeli Aranda, Hope Haven Belize, and the San Pedro Town Council, the awards recognized women and girls who are making a real impact across different fields. It was a powerful reminder that representation matters and that the contributions of women in our community deserve to be seen, celebrated, and supported.
This year’s honorees included:
Women in Entrepreneurship – Jessie Leslie Luna
Women in Sports – Aysha Acosta
Women in Health – Nurse Lezel Cayetano
Women in Tourism – Alexandra Deshield
Women in Education – Amanda Burgos
Women in Culinary Arts – Maresha Reid
Women in Arts – Elvi Staines
The Girl Child Award – Marisya Blanco
Women in Law Enforcement – Alma Pinelo
Way Maker’s Award – Mariel Calderón
International Woman of Impact – Ruxendra Runi Neagu
Women in Service Industry – Lalita Cocom
Women in Community Service – Christina Sanchez
Each name represents a story of hard work, resilience, and leadership that continues to shape San Pedro into a stronger, more inclusive community.
Celebration
A Week That Says a Lot About Who We Are
Looking back, this past week wasn’t just busy, it was meaningful. It showed the strength of our youth, the importance of protecting our environment, the growth of our tourism industry, and the incredible women leading change all around us. San Pedro continues to move forward, not just as a destination, but as a community that celebrates its people every step of the way.
Jessie Luna and Ayesha Acosta
Lezel Cayetano and Alexandra Deshield
Amanda Burgos and Maresha Reid
Marisya Blanco and Alma Pinelo
Ruxendra Runi and Lalita Cocom
Elvie Guerrero and Christina Sanchez
