Oceana Announces Belize’s 2024 Ocean Hero Awards Recipients
Celebrating Khadija ‘Kaj’ Assales and Linda Searle for their contributions to the conservation of Belize’s marine ecosystems
Press Release Date: December 5, 2024
Location: City of Belmopan, Belize
Contact:
December 5, 2024 — Oceana proudly announced the winners of its 14th annual Ocean Hero Awards during a ceremony held on December 4, 2024. This year’s recipients, Khadija ‘Kaj’ Assales, a jeweler who trailblazed lionfish jewelry in Belize, and Linda Searle, a dedicated marine biologist and conservationist, were honored for their outstanding contributions to preserving Belize’s marine resources.
The award ceremony was broadcast on TV on The National Channel and streamed live on Oceana in Belize’s Facebook page, allowing the community to celebrate these remarkable women who have shown exceptional commitment to protecting the Belize Barrier Reef and its ecosystems.
Oceana’s Vice President for Belize, Janelle Chanona, expressed her pride in the awardees, stating, “It’s an absolute privilege to celebrate fellow Belizeans who are passionate advocates for our marine resources and the people that depend on them. Khadija and Linda have shown unwavering dedication to ocean conservation, and their inspiring work is a testament to the power of individuals making a difference. The Ocean Hero Awards is our way of publicly acknowledging their contributions and saying, ‘thank you’ on behalf of a grateful nation.”
Khadija Assales, known for her jewelry brand Kaj Expressions, has gained widespread recognition for her innovative lionfish jewelry. Her unique creations not only showcase her artistic talent but also play a crucial role in addressing the invasive lionfish species that threaten Belize’s marine ecosystem. By using the fins of these invasive fish as materials for her jewelry, Khadija combines art with environmental advocacy to raise awareness about lionfish overpopulation.
In her acceptance speech, Khadija reflected on the importance of collaboration in her work: “I would not have been able to do all the work that I’m doing without the collaborative efforts of all the hardworking fishermen of Sarteneja Village; the woman who gave me this idea over 10 years ago, Jen Chapman; and, of course, all the incredible people who support our mission of spreading lionfish awareness through creative works of art.”
Linda Searle has been a prominent figure in Belize’s marine conservation community since the 1990s. As the founder of ECOMar and Sea Sports Belize, Linda’s work spans research, education, scuba diving training, and the rescue of stranded marine life. Her tireless efforts, alongside her husband John, have transformed her deep love for the ocean into meaningful action that supports sustainable marine stewardship across Belize.
Linda expressed gratitude for the partnerships that have fueled her work, stating, “The saying is true, ‘You protect what you love and passion is the key to making it happen.’ There are many ways to support marine conservation in Belize and around the globe, just follow your passion.”
The Oceana Ocean Hero Awards celebrate Belizeans who have made significant strides in ocean conservation, advocacy, and education. Past recipients have included Lionel “Chocolate” Heredia, Dr. Melanie McField, Lisa Carne, Jamal Galves, Captain Romauldo “Romi” Badillo Sr., Janet Gibson, and many more individuals whose dedication to the preservation of Belize’s marine resources continues to inspire future generations.
Oceana is deeply honored to recognize Khadija Assales and Linda Searle, whose efforts embody the spirit of the Ocean Hero Award and contribute to the ongoing protection of the Belize Barrier Reef and its vital ecosystems.
The stained-glass awards were designed and made by local artist, Leisa Carr-Caceres of Belizean Craft and Colors.
The 2024 Oceana Ocean Hero award ceremony can be watched at this link.
Photos of this year’s Ocean Hero Award recipients are available here.
To see Khadija’s video, click here.
To see Linda’s video, click here.
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Oceana is the largest international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation. Oceana is rebuilding abundant and biodiverse oceans by winning science-based policies in countries that control one-quarter of the world’s wild fish catch. With more than 300 victories that stop overfishing, habitat destruction, oil and plastic pollution, and the killing of threatened species like turtles, whales, and sharks, Oceana’s campaigns are delivering results. A restored ocean means that 1 billion people can enjoy a healthy seafood meal every day, forever. Together, we can save the oceans and help feed the world. Visit www.belize.oceana.org to learn more.
