Local News

Belize’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development, Lisel Alamilla has won a place as a finalist for the Whitley Awards which is considered to be the world’s most prestigious wildlife competitions.  The nomination grants Alamilla an opportunity to travel to London in May and participate in interviews with a panel of experts who will decide who will win the share of Whitley Fund for Nature grants which is worth a total of two hundred and ten thousand pounds sterling.  Alamilla is up against six other nominees from countries like Indonesia, Madagascar, Peru, and Costa Rica.  The work with the Ya’axche Conservation Trust in promoting conservation of Maya Golden Landscape in Southern Belize is what garnered Alamilla a spot in the competition.  On her trip to London Alamilla will meet Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal, Princess Anne and will have the opportunity to hear about the work of the six other finalists, attend receptions with leading conservation organizations and academics, meet with WFN donors and receive professional development training.  The results of the award competition will be announced at the Royal Geographical Society in London on Wednesday May ninth.  Princess Anne will present the prizes.  WFN’s acting director David Wallis commented on the short list saying quote “Winning a place on the Whitley Awards shortlist is in itself a major achievement.” End quote.  He also commented on the candidates by saying quote, “Each one is taking inspirational steps to create a better future both for people and wildlife and we know that our judges are going to find it very difficult to choose between them.” End quote.