Caribbean Scientists attend the Latin American and Caribbean, World Aquaculture Society Conference, Medellin Colombia
Reflecting on this milestone September 24 - 27, 2024
Three weeks ago I would have to say was the highlight of my career as an Aquaculture Scientist and since founding the Caribbean Aquaculture Education and Innovation Hub.
I’m thrilled to share that we successfully brought together 10 aquaculture scientists from 7 Caribbean islands to participate at LAQUA2024
the premier platform for aquaculture in Latin America and the Caribbean!
This gathering showcased groundbreaking research, fostered valuable collaborations, and highlighted the important work being done to advance sustainable aquaculture in the region. From innovative farming techniques to marine conservation efforts, these scientists are leading the way in shaping the future of aquaculture.
Attending the LACC World Aquaculture Society Conference in Medellin, saw the culmination of months of planning and years of me vision-making to have Caribbean Scientists make a presence at an international aquaculture conference the limitation which has always been the cost of attending international conferences. Very often funding is available for Fisheries conferences but not for Aquaculture and even more limited to Caribbean nationals.
We were even more challenged as at the height of our planning, Hurricane Beryl made its way through the Caribbean at the same moment that we were trying to get sponsorships. So unfortunately, we were not able to sponsor more scientists and students however we hope that in future it will be possible to have more people attend. In the meantime, I am celebrating that finally, the Caribbean had representation.
The last stretch of the week before the conference contained days of intense coordination by the team and filled with moments of networking, presenting, team building, representing Jamaica and session hosting. The most outstanding moment for me was building the wonderful bonds between scientists from around the Caribbean.
Caribbean scientists should work together not only because we share many cultural aspects but also because the region shares unique environmental, social, and economic challenges that require collaborative solutions. By pooling resources, expertise, and knowledge, we can better address issues like climate change, food security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development, while fostering innovation and resilience that benefits the entire region. United efforts can also amplify their global impact and strengthen regional scientific leadership.
What many people found surprising is that we were meeting in person for the first time! All of our planning for the conference was done virtually. The Caribbean islands are not easily accessible and hinders collaborations between Caribbean scientists. Being able to meet in person and spend 5 days together fostered life long bonds and a mutual love for our region.
As we were the only representation of the Caribbean our small booth attracted a lot of attention and interest in our countries. We not only transferred knowledge about our various sectors and individual work but also represented our countries. Surprisingly many had little knowledge about the islands in the Caribbean
The energy, passion, and knowledge shared during the event were truly inspiring. Together, we are building stronger connections and advancing aquaculture for a more resilient, food-secure future in the Caribbean.
Listen to what to what our Caribbean Scientists had to say about their experience attending an aquaculture conference for the first time and why Caribbean Scientists should work together
A huge thank you to all the presenters and participants for making this event a success! Let's continue to push the boundaries of research and collaboration in the region
Please check out the upcoming Friday Features a series on Profiling Caribbean Scientist
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I want to thank BioMar group of Companies our primary sponsor and to Katherine Bryar that believed in our vision and for making this moment happen. Thanks also to Aquasafra, the National Fisheries Authority, ISER Caribe, The Government of Saint Lucia Fisheries Department and to the Queen conch lab, in supporting the attendance of our Caribbean Scientists. This will be the first time that English-speaking Caribbean was represented.
This is great! These kinds of interactions are so important. I am going to read it properly and wonder if you would be interested in doing an interview, Dr. Russo.