Chapter Thirty Three: A bit Chile

Welcome back to what is turning out to be a very eventful September. We are keeping track of a lot, but the focus continues to be on conversations. Sometimes that means filming and listening to people speak about the challenges facing Indigenous communities. This week it means learning about conservation projects from around the world.

We have already arrived in Santiago, Chile, for the RedLAC Conference, which brings together the conservation trust funds of Latin America and the Caribbean. Since we work with the Protected Areas Trust in Guyana, it is exciting to participate and be introduced to this wider community. Guyana sits at the unique intersection of South America and the Caribbean, and in many ways we represent both. At the same time, I have noticed that we tend to connect more naturally with the Caribbean participants compared to some of our South American counterparts. Still, Guyana contributes something distinct because of our ties to both the Amazon rainforest and the Caribbean Sea.

A Strong Presence

This year, our team is represented across four panels. I will be speaking on artificial intelligence. One of our board members, who represents Indigenous communities, will be bringing that perspective. Other team members will cover topics on financing, tourism, and development. Having so many voices from Guyana represented at this level is encouraging.

To me, this is the most crucial aspect. We cannot speak for everything, but we can ensure that those who should be heard have a place at the table. In a space that Latin American voices have traditionally dominated, there is real value in bringing perspectives that are both Caribbean and Amazonian. At the end of the day, we are all working toward the same goal of protecting our planet and ecosystems.

Collaboration and Communication

Another highlight is the chance to connect with other communications professionals. I am looking forward to exchanging ideas with them and comparing how our challenges overlap and where they differ. Collaboration is not only about sharing technical expertise but also about fostering relationships across regions. It feels empowering to be part of such a wide network of people committed to conservation in South and Central America and the Caribbean.

I am also very appreciative that the team has asked me to assist with communications throughout the week. Alongside the conference itself, I will be helping with coverage of the General Assembly, the board meeting, and a few other important events. It is a privilege to support the storytelling and to help highlight the work being done here.

A Glimpse of Santiago

Because I am writing this blog partly in the moment and partly looking back, I will share a few photos of Santiago to give a sense of the experience. The city has its own energy and character, and being here adds another dimension to the learning and networking that is happening at the conference.

This week is going to be busier than usual, but that is part of the excitement. It feels like one of those moments where the work connects directly to the wider world. And in this case, it really does mean, I am seeing you from around the world.

The Good, The Challenge, and What’s Next

The good has to be all things Chile. Experiencing the country has already been inspiring, and I cannot wait to see more of it.

The challenge has been balancing all the different events while also supporting both local teams and international teams that were unable to send their communications staff. Finding that balance takes focus and flexibility.

What is next is the official start of the RedLAC Conference itself. I am excited for the panels, the discussions, and the chance to contribute to a larger regional conversation about conservation and sustainability.

Feel free to follow along on the Protected Areas Trust Socials or RedLAC for cool stuff from the event.