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. 

Estevan is an avid promoter of sustainable farming systems and has extensive knowledge and skills in sustainable cacao production. Estevan manages his cacao-based agroforestry farm, a tradition passed on to him by his grandfather. Estevan along with COL’s extension officers team advocates for climate smart agricultural practices in stakeholder indigenous communities of the MGL and promotes sustainable enterprises initiatives for income diversification opportunities. Estevan has a deep appreciation for conservation and recognizes the importance of forests in the well-being of farming families.  

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.   

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. 

Carlene has a strong background in biology, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Carlene has an affinity for natural science and social systems, and is passionate about culturally sensitive conservation efforts, particularly for Indigenous People in Belize. Her experience as lecturer and working with Belize’s first Indigenous Commission, provides her with the foundation to conceptualize and develop project concepts and proposals, integrating the environment, people and their socioeconomic needs.

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. 

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. 

Janiel Chan has a deep appreciation for the environment and the numerous wonders it possesses. Janiel oversees research and monitoring activities related to freshwater and vegetation in the protected areas and community zones of the MGL. Janiel understands that humans and nature can still coexist and have a deeper appreciation of making informed decisions that take into account both the immediate and long-term effects on biodiversity. 

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.  

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).  

David Itch is a dedicated individual, driven by a deep-rooted passion for sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. David promotes cacao agroforestry and provides valuable guidance and support to farmers in implementing sustainable practices and addressing agricultural challenges. With a keen interest in the intersection of agriculture and conservation, David promotes maintaining biodiversity via climate-smart agriculture practices for ecosystem resilience. His unwavering commitment to conservation is evident in his proactive approach to integrating sustainable farming methods into his agricultural endeavours, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between human activities and the natural environment. 

Steve Cus is a dedicated professional with a fervent passion for agriculture and possesses expertise in crop and livestock management. Steve aids his father in cattle rearing and crop cultivation. His journey led him to Ya'axche, where he serves as a lead agroforestry extension officer in inga alley cropping, sharing valuable knowledge and resources of sustainable agricultural practices. Steve's blend of creativity, communication skills, and agricultural knowledge positions him to make a meaningful impact in the communities of the MGL. 

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.