About Us
Empowering women, men and youths
Established July 8th, 2019 by a small group of women passionate about seaweed farming and looking for independent all year-round livelihood opportunity for themselves and their community.
BWSFA is a women-led base association with inclusive of men and youth from community
Their collective effort is focused on building an equitable Belize’s seaweed mariculture industry benefitting Belizeans
Breaking cultural norm in the maritime space that is male dominated
- Mission
- Vision
Create livelihoods with high-quality, sustainably farmed seaweed and value-added products to uplift communities. 
Position Belize as a premier producer of premium seaweed products, revitalizing fisheries, boosting tourism, and generating economic value for Belizeans. 
Sustaining Oceans
Growing Communities
The association currently has 37 members, including women, men, and youth from various parts of Belize and play integral roles across various aspects of the seaweed value chain. Notably, 78% of the members are women, and 35% are under 35 years of age. Members participate in cultivation at the BWSFA seaweed farm, focusing on two red seaweed species — Eucheumatopsis isiformis and Kappaphycus alvarezii — while receiving stipends for their work. The association promotes environmentally friendly submerged farming techniques and provides discounted seaweed to its members for use in creating value-added products. BWSFA actively supports its members in developing and marketing value-added seaweed products through their individual brands, micro-enterprises, and collective efforts.
Meet our Team
Our Board of Directors
Jalima Gold
Dasha Shivers
Robert Camille Pennell
Jenria Lozano
Melissa Cabral
Susan Fuller
We are very impressed with the BWSFA's commitment to empowering women through sustainable seaweed farming. The BWSFA serves as a strong example of how conservation efforts can significantly advance women's financial empowerment in Belize's blue economy.
