IWIC2025AWARD
Emerging Women Leaders in Belize
The inaugural award recognizes emerging women leaders in Belize who have been involved 10 years or less in conservation and sustainability initiatives and who have consistently demonstrated drive and strong potential to contribute positively to the conservation of Belize’s rich biodiversity and natural environment. This prestigious award honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional peer-to-peer collaboration, and dedication in protecting and preserving Belize’s ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources and have demonstrated a commitment to empowering and including other women in their approaches.
The process is an internal IWIC award committee who reviews and ranks the first round of submissions. The highest ranked go on to an external international review committee to reduce or eliminate any bias
After a year in the making, we are proud to present the honorees of this year’s Women in Conservation Award. Every applicant was deeply deserving, and the decision was not made lightly. With the help of three anonymous reviewers, we selected the top three women to be honored at IWIC2025.
IWIC2025 AWARD WINNER
Jacinta Usher
Jacinta Usher is a marine conservation professional with Oceana Belize, where she supports science-based advocacy and community-centered initiatives to protect the country’s coastal and marine ecosystems. Her work contributes to national campaigns focused on sustainable fisheries management, marine biodiversity protection, and responsible ocean governance, helping to ensure Belize’s marine resources remain healthy for future generations.
At Oceana Belize, Jacinta engages in research, policy outreach, and public education efforts that connect science with decision-making. She works closely with fishers, coastal communities, government agencies, and civil society partners to promote sustainable fishing practices, strengthen marine protections, and elevate community voices in ocean policy processes.
Driven by a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, Jacinta is dedicated to empowering local stakeholders, particularly youth and coastal communities, to become leaders in marine conservation. Her work reflects a strong belief that thriving oceans are essential to Belize’s cultural identity, food security, and economic resilience.
Congratulations, Jacinta!
IWIC2025 AWARD FINALISTS
Roxy Lemus Orellana
Veronica Tun