Marvin Vasquez is a conservationist who has an affinity for the wildlife, in particular the avian community. Marvin’s operational management of Ya’axché has ensured a conducive work environment where successful project implementation, management and reporting is his priority.  Marvin is committed to an integrated management approach of linking community outreach and livelihoods, protected areas management and biodiversity conservation. As a team and community-oriented individual, his coordinating experience with staff and community-based organizations remains centered at strengthening institutional capacities.

Ivanny Hernandez’s robust knowledge of financial management and conservation financing makes her an integral player of the Ya’axché team. Ivanny directs the day-to-day financial management of Ya’axché and liaises, communicates, and collaborates with funders through financial and project reporting. She leads budget development for annual operation plans, projects, and programs and oversees the administrative operations of the organization. 

Said Gutierrez has over 10 years of experience in conservation science and protected areas management. He is responsible for the daily management of four protected areas under the Protected Areas Management Program and has direct oversight of PA staff. Said is an advocate for science-based decision-making and has been instrumental in monitoring land-use changes in the MGL, monitoring forest cover and improving management effectiveness of PAs through strategic surveillance and compliance systems.

Elizabeth Dorgay is a conservation ecologist with experience in botanical research and social and ecological systems. Beth is responsible for the oversight of Ya’axché’s Science Program which includes the ongoing development of biodiversity research and monitoring and ensuring that management and conservation actions are based on sound science. Beth is passionate about supporting conservation in human-dominated landscapes and is working to expand agroecological research and biodiversity monitoring in the working landscapes bordering Ya’axché’s protected areas. 

Ernesto is an agriculturist with over two decades of experience promoting sustainable farming practices across Belize. He specializes in climate-smart approaches that enhance resilience and productivity for smallholder farmers. As COL Director, he is passionate about improving livelihoods while safeguarding the environment. Ernesto has developed innovative and culturally sensitive methods to communicate best practices to farming local communities. His deep understanding of farmers’ challenges and way of life drives his advocacy for the adoption of climate-smart agriculture—benefiting community well-being, food security, and the health of our ecosystems.

Denise Garcia executes Ya’axché’s fundraising strategies and leads grant development. Denise is well-versed in protected areas management and system planning, coastal marine resource management, and stakeholder community engagement, inclusive of relevant policies and legislative framework, and national and regional conventions and agreements. Denise is solution-oriented and committed to Belize’s natural environment and people.   

Petrona Coy is a business and finance professional with over fifteen years of experience driving sustainable, local, community-driven enterprises economies. As Conservation Business Director, Petrona contributes to Ya’axché’s financial sustainability through management and strategic strengthening of Ya’axché Institute for Conservation Education (YICE)-an ecotourism-based business arm of Ya’axché. Driven by a strong passion for nature, conservation, and the power of finance to create lasting impact, Petrona is committed to empowering local communities and preserving Belize’s natural and cultural heritage by building trust, nurturing partnerships, and aligning business innovation with environmental stewardship.

Dianne Gomez leads the administrative day-to-day operations of Ya’axche’s main office with support from the Finance Officer, Administrative Assistant and Operations Director.  As Finance Manager she is also responsible to maintain and lead the updating of the accounting system, monitoring of accounts and reporting, and liaising closely with project managers in budget monitoring and reporting. Dianne provides direct support to the Finance Director in managing the finances of the Organization. 

Hilberto Rash is a nature enthusiast with over 10 years’ experience in jungle expedition and survival and developing protection systems for protected areas. Rash oversees the enforcement and surveillance team, protecting the forest resources and advocating for compliance of the Protected Areas regulations in the MGL. Rash is dedicated to the preservation of the natural systems of Toledo and advocates for increased stewardship. 

Nathaniel Castillo is a skilled photographer videographer and graphic designer with keen eyes for detail and wild places. Nathaniel maintains a positive image of Ya’axché among stakeholders, dedicating his skills and passion to influence people toward pro-environmental behaviour. He is well versed in all facets of digital marketing and takes a strategic approach and analytical mindset to achieve the organization’s goals through its digital channels. 

Florentino Chiac is a wildlife conservationist with a strong interest in biodiversity data management and analysis for informed decision-making. Florentino is an expert in biodiversity research monitoring with focus on camera trap surveys. In addition, he collects data on wildlife conflict issues in the Toledo District, with an emphasis on Human-Jaguar Conflict and provides conflict mitigation measures to small scale cattle farmers to reduce livestock depredation. As a young open-minded individual who is constantly fascinated by nature, he firmly believes resource conservation and management which supports community livelihoods. 

Erwin Tush is a dedicated apiarist with a passion for agriculture, working with farmers and improving the livelihoods of the people in Toledo. Erwin engages with stakeholders in particular community leaders, organized groups, established enterprises, among others within the MGL to advocate for sustainable management and conservation of forests and water resources. He supports all three program areas and is instrumental in liaising and coordinating between the Ya’axche team and communities. 

Ymanoli Garcia brings a unique blend of passion and business acumen to her role. Leveraging her educational background, she oversees the implementation, management, and improvement of YICE's initiatives. Driven by a deep appreciation for wildlife, nature, and local communities, Ymanoli’s primary focus is ensuring these initiatives generate sustainable funding for Ya’axché's conservation and community development work. An adventurer and nature enthusiast at heart, Ymanoli thrives at the intersection of business, environmental stewardship and supporting local communities. 

Vilma is a digital creator, fusing her strong background in Business Science with social media marketing. As the Marketing and Communications Manager for YICE, she uses her passion, creativity, and visual storytelling skills to connect visitors to the lush landscape and rich cultures found within the MGL while contributing to conserving biodiversity. Vilma is known for her warm, friendly personality and her ability to connect easily with others. She is committed to strengthening YICE via strategic marketing and enhanced communication.

Petrona Coc has diverse experience in tourism, community enterprises and nursery keeping.  Petrona manages all facilities at the Golden Stream property ensuring that a high level of cleanliness is maintained. She enjoys meeting customers and guests and is an-house tour guide who is willing to provide you with an exceptional experience. Petrona provides administrative support to the Conservation Business Director of Ya'axché Institute for Conservation Education (YICE).  

Evarista Sho has a passion for working with people and educating them on how to conserve our forest and wildlife for future generations.  She takes pride in providing impactful experiences in nature and the classroom with students of primary, secondary, and tertiary levels in the MGL stakeholder communities. Evarista is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the organization's Education and Outreach Strategy in the Maya Golden Landscape. 

Everett Foster plays a crucial role in promoting awareness of Ya’axché’s programmatic work through education outreach and community engagement. With a solid dedication to environmental stewardship, he will give voice to encouraging environmental protection and addressing ecological threats to current and future generations. Through this approach, Everett will assist in implementing Ya’axché’s Education and Outreach Strategy across the Maya Golden Landscape.

Vijay Palacio is an avid researcher with a background in Natural Resources Management and a passion for applying science to conservation. His work spans from biodiversity monitoring to community-based environmental education. As Ya’axché’s Research Officer, Vijay manages datasets and coordinates vegetation and freshwater research and monitoring activities within protected areas and communities in the MGL. He is dedicated to advancing conservation science that supports both ecosystems and the people who depend on them.

Amira Palma provides administrative and technical support to Ya’axche’s Finance, Development and Executive Directors and other core staff. Amira works closely with the finance team to manage the office’s administrative responsibilities. While her duties are done from the main office; she enjoys working with such a tremendous organization that promotes conservation of wildlife and biodiversity for our future generations, allowing her to connect with the environment.  

Lorena Chee is a problem-solver with strong management skills. As an Administrative Assistant, Lorena takes pride in offering a blend of organizational skills, attention to detail, inclusive communication, and outstanding administrative support to ensure smooth and efficient daily operations at Ya’axché’s main office and field bases. Lorena is dedicated to Ya’axché’s core values of environmental stewardship to contribute to a healthier Toledo and Belize.

Dillon Parham is a driven and dedicated Agroforestry Extension Officer with a strong passion for agriculture, community support, and environmental stewardship. With a background in applied agriculture, Dillon works closely with local farmers, providing guidance, knowledge, and resources to strengthen livelihoods while promoting sustainable climate-smart farming practices. Through his work, Dillon contributes to building resilient farming communities that value both food security and the protection of Belize’s natural environment.

Mardoqueo Tush has a strong foundation in agriculture and sustainable farming practices, particularly beekeeping. Driven by his passion, Mardoqueo strives to make a lasting impact on the agricultural landscape of the MGL, improving yields and protecting the environment, ensuring the long-term viability of farming and livelihoods in the communities. Through his work, he hopes to inspire and empower others to embrace sustainable agriculture, contributing to a greener and more resilient future for generations to come. 

Karen Zambrano is a geospatial analyst and environmentalist, inspired by the force and resilience of nature, dedicated to preserving Belize's unique biodiversity and natural resources for future generations. As Ya’axché’s Protected Areas Geospatial Monitoring Officer, Karen monitors and protects forests using geospatial tools and data-driven techniques, supporting successful conservation planning and informed decision-making. Guided by her personal values and professional dedication, she actively promotes sustainability and environmental awareness, advancing wild place preservation and enhancing Ya'axché's aim to safeguard Belize's natural legacy in continuity.