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December 5, 2024

Oceana’s Ocean Hero Awards Celebrate Women Making Waves in Marine Conservation

 

Khadija Assales and Linda Searle honored for their contribution to the ongoing protection of the Belize Barrier Reef and its vital ecosystems.

This year’s Ocean Hero Award recognized the efforts of two women in marine conversation. Khadija ‘Kaj’ Assales, the trailblazer of lionfish jewelry in Belize, and Linda Searle, a dedicated marine biologist and conservationist, were honored for their incredible contributions to preserving Belize’s marine resources. 

Ocean Hero 2024 – Khadija “Kaj” Assales

Ever heard of jewelry with a purpose? That’s exactly what Khadija Assales has accomplished through her Kaj Expressions line of lionfish jewelry. Her unique designs are more than beautiful accessories. They also highlight the problem of the invasive lionfish species in the Belize Barrier Reef. By incorporating lionfish fins into jewelry, she encourages sustainable fishing practices and marine ecosystem protection. Here’s her story…

Ocean Hero 2024 – Linda Searle

Linda Searle has been a leading force in the conservation community for over three decades. Her name is attached to the incredible work she has done in coral bleaching monitoring, scuba diving training, and rescue and rehabilitation of stranded marine creatures. If you’ve ever met Linda, you’ll know that passion drives her life’s work. Let’s hear more…

These remarkable women exemplify how individual dedication can drive meaningful environmental conservation and inspire Belizeans to take action and make waves for Belize’s precious marine resources.