Oceana in Belize was proud to honor two renowned Belizeans with Oceana’s Wavemaker Award and Ocean Hero Award. The awards were presented at a special event at the Bliss held on World Oceans Day, Friday June 8th.
Mr. Evan “Mose” Hyde was presented with the Wavemaker Award for his open and frank discussions about marine issues—especially as the morning host for “Wake Up Belize.” His efforts have helped spread the message about the need for marine protection and conservation. He is gifted in being able to talk about these issues beyond the environment, and shows how they relate to Belize’s socio-political and socio-economic realities. And he advocates for awareness and education as means to promote conservation and environmental activism.
Mr. Lionel “Chocolate” Heredia was presented with the Ocean Hero Award for lifetime service and dedication to marine education and advocacy and promoting sustainable use of Belize’s marine resources. His work as a conservationist for the sea manatee is a true example of being a leader and role model in the protection of the ocean’s precious creatures. He is also well-known for fighting to ensure the establishment of Swallow Caye Wildlife Reserve.
Oceana additionally gave Awards of Recognition to some of Belize’s media houses for their help in communicating its efforts to the Belizean public. Those houses that received awards of recognition include Open Your Eyes, The Morning Show, KREM Daily News, and the LOVE FM Morning Show.
Oceana also premiered a documentary at the event entitled “The End of the Line.” The movie highlights how the long-held human belief that “the world’s oceans are vast and inexhaustible” is now a myth as overfishing has caused mass decline among the world fish population.
It is the hope of Oceana that the event has sparked a sense of responsibility among Belizeans to join our cause and protect Belize’s precious sea from degradation. “Catch the wave! Ride with Oceana!” today to join our efforts and protect Belize’s ever-important marine life.