Conservation Through Connection Workshop
by Jayc Cantun, Wildlife Fellow
The Conservation Through Connection workshop at BFREE was a remarkable five-day immersive experience that brought together 13 young conservationists (10 students and 3 BFREE Fellows) from across Belize to strengthen our shared knowledge, skills, and passion for environmental stewardship. Throughout the week, we explored not only the scientific aspects of conservation, but also the importance of community engagement, communication, and environmental education. The workshop reinforced the idea that meaningful conservation is achieved by building strong connections between people and nature.
The first day focused on BFREE’s conservation programs, including the Cacao Agroforestry and the Hicatee Conservation and Research Center. Participants learned how sustainable agricultural practices can coexist with biodiversity conservation, demonstrating that protecting natural ecosystems does not have to come at the expense of livelihoods. Touring both the agroforestry systems and learning about BFREE’s conservation initiatives highlighted the importance of balancing ecological health with sustainable development.
The second day focused on Belize’s watersheds and freshwater ecosystems, led by Dr. Ed Boles, Aquatic Ecologist and Professor at Galen University. In my opinion, one of the most engaging activities was learning how macroinvertebrates serve as biological indicators of water quality. By identifying different aquatic organisms, we were able to assess the health of freshwater systems and better understand the impacts of pollution and habitat degradation. This hands-on experience emphasized the value of biological monitoring and demonstrated how even the smallest organisms play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
The third day shifted our attention toward the people component of conservation with the morning session being led by Jaren Serano, Dermatemys Social Scientist and PhD student at University of Florida. In his talk, “Interviews in Qualitative Research,” he taught us basic methodologies for performing social surveys. We learned that it is not only about asking questions, but about making people feel comfortable and respected. We practiced asking questions and listening to the answers. This showed us that the act of conducting social surveys is not just about science but about people too.
During the afternoon session, we learned from Heather Barrett, Deputy Director, about BFREE’s Science and Education Fellowship program. After which, we engaged in a roundtable discussion about searching for jobs in the conservation field. We discussed perceived and real challenges and opportunities and shared resources.
Day four brought about a different challenge, as everything we learned so far had to be transformed into an educational project designed for young children. Working collaboratively, we developed multiple projects based on the themes of the importance of wildlife and healthy habitats. The goal was to make conservation concepts engaging, memorable and easy for children to understand and appreciate. This process demonstrated the importance of having creativity in environmental education and reminded us that inspiring the next generation is essential for achieving long-term conservation goals.
The final day provided the opportunity to put our preparation into practice at the Community Baboon Sanctuary in the Belize River Valley area. Delivering our educational activities directly to children allowed us to witness firsthand the impact of interactive learning. Seeing the children’s enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to participate reinforced the value of connecting conservation messages with fun, hands-on experiences. It was rewarding to know that even small interactions have the potential to shape future attitudes toward protecting Belize’s natural environment.
The “Conservation Through Connection” workshop was an inspiring and transformative experience. It strengthened my understanding of ecological conservation, environmental monitoring, community engagement, and environmental education, while demonstrating how these elements are interconnected to one another. More importantly, it reminded me that effective conservation is ultimately built through meaningful relationships with nature, with communities and with future generations. The workshop ended with my ability, and I would like to think the same for the other participants, to contribute to conservation efforts in Belize and be motivated to continue fostering connections that encourage environmental responsibility and sustainable action.
Special thanks to Ms. Jessie Young and the Community Baboon Sanctuary for partnering with us on this initiative. Thanks also to the Diana Foster and Thomas H. Jones Fund for providing special funds to make this workshop and collaboration possible.
Workshop Participants Included: Miracle Bood, Bryanna Castellanos, Ashayla Cassasola, Kimberly Cadiz, Jada Daly, Iry Neal, Reyna Neal, Kenneith Pollard, Zhair Lizama, and Ashira Rancharan
BFREE Fellows: Samih Young, Heston Castillo and Jayc Cantun
Support was provided throughout the workshop by BFREE staff members Rocento Pau and Mario Teul.
