Reflections on announcing the Hicatee Conservation and Action Plan

Rocento Pau spoke on behalf of BFREE last week at the Belize Climate Symposium to announce the Hicatee Management and Action Plan. Watch Rocento address the symposium. 

By: Rocento Pau, BFREE Office and Hospitality Coordinator

Attending Climate Week in Punta Gorda was a meaningful and inspiring experience for me, both professionally and personally. As the Office and Hospitality Coordinator for BFREE, I had the privilege of representing the organization and delivering a statement on behalf of BFREE for the launch of the Conservation and Action Plan for the critically endangered Hicatee turtle. Being part of this important moment reminded me that conservation is not only about protecting wildlife, but also about bringing people, communities, organizations, and different voices together to create meaningful change.

Standing among conservationists, community leaders, women working in blue spaces, and other young passionate individuals made me proud to contribute, even in a small way, to an initiative that can help secure a future for one of Belize's most endangered species.

Personally, being at Climate Week gave me a deeper appreciation for the work that we do at BFREE and the importance of every individual’s contribution to conservation. Delivering the statement was an honor and a responsibility that I did not take lightly. It gave me confidence in my voice and reminded me that the work we do behind the scenes also contributes to something much bigger than ourselves. I left Punta Gorda feeling inspired, proud, and motivated to continue supporting BFREE's mission. The experience strengthened my belief that conservation happens through connection, collaboration, and people who are willing to stand up and speak for the natural world.