Belize Coast Guard Expands Sea Cadet Program to the South

The Belize Coast Guard SEA Cadet and Mentorship Program has expanded to the southern part of Belize. Recently, in Independence Village, Stann Creek District, the inauguration was held with the first mentorship session held on Friday.  Like the cadet programs operated by the Belize Police Department and the Belize Defense Force, the Coast Guard’s initiative focuses on early engagement, mentorship, and discipline in Belize’s future maritime officers. Speaking with Senior Chief Joycelynn Galvez, she explained that the program is primarily an outreach initiative aimed at at-risk youth, designed to instill discipline while introducing participants to basic seamanship and maritime patrol concepts. 

Galvez said the program targets children from as young as nine years old to high school students, with a goal of enrolling 50 participants. She noted that 30 youths have already signed up, and the remaining slots will focus largely on fourth-form students, as they prepare to transition into the workforce. Galvez added that should any participants choose to pursue a career with the Belize Coast Guard after graduation, the program would ensure they are well prepared.