20 Years Building a Legacy
Foto: Roxana Chávez
To commemorate 20 years of MAR Fund is to recognize the efforts of hundreds of people, organizations and communities that have dedicated their work to the conservation of the Mesoamerican Reef (MAR). From its inception, MAR Fund had a clear purpose: to build a regional platform that would bring together actors from four countries to develop joint strategies for the protection of the reef. It was not an easy task. At a time when funds and actions were mainly national, MAR Fund proposed something different: a common strategy for a shared ecosystem among four countries.
Guatemala City was the starting point for the commemorative activities of this anniversary, with an event that brought together environmental and diplomatic authorities, international organizations, strategic partners and key players in the conservation sector. It was a celebration and an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of the organization and project its future in the protection of the Mesoamerican Reef.
The day began with remarks by Carlos Rodríguez, strategic advisor, who highlighted the evolution of MAR Fund as a regional conservation platform. Then, María José González, executive director, delved into the organization’s legacy, highlighting the transformation that has allowed it to consolidate alliances and mobilize direct funding to actors in the field.
MAR Fund has built a valuable legacy, but even more important is the fact that the organization has been able to build a strong and sustainable conservation platform in the region.
The event was also an opportunity to recognize those who have left their mark on MAR conservation. Sylvia Marín von Koller and Martin Goebel were honored for their contribution to strengthening conservation in the region, while a video commemorating the twentieth anniversary was shown to review the milestones achieved by the organization.
The closing remarks were made by Yvonne Ramirez, President of the Board of Directors, who reaffirmed MAR Fund’s commitment to sustainability, inclusion and innovation in conservation.
MAR Fund’s anniversary marks a turning point: the coming years demand greater ambition, collaboration and innovative strategies to protect one of the region’s most valuable ecosystems. We celebrate what we have built in these first 20 years and renew our commitment to those to come.
Photos: Roxana Chávez and Liz Herrera
