Fellows in training, experiences for life

YIMY CHIRINOS: FROM HONDURAS TO OREGON

YIMY CHIRINOS

One of the key features of the MAR Leadership Program is its ability to pro-vide custom-tailored training, in addition to the structured group trainings. A clear example of the impact these individual trainings have on the professional development of our Fellows is the case of Yimy Chirinos.

Yimy is a 2011 Honduran fellow, newly appointed Judge in Roatan Island, who started his career as a prosecutor in the District Attorney’s office. In September 2011, thanks to MAR Leadership Program’s support, Yimy had the opportunity to travel to Eugene, Oregon and participate in a 10-week fellowship at the Environmental Law Alliance Worldwide (ELAW). Yimy collaborated with ELAW staff during his stay to develop his vision for training his fellow judges in Honduras on environmental issues. He also improved his English skills through an intensive course at the University of Oregon’s American English Institute (AEI).

Yimy has now returned to Honduras with an extraordinary experience and will be in charge of empowering judges to help communities to better protect the environment.

GABRIELA NAVA, THE CORAL GARDENER

Gabriela Nava with Dr. Diego Lirman - Universi-ty of Miami an expert in coral reef “gardens”.

2011 MAR fellow Gabriela Nava from Chetumal, Mexico is what we call a “coral gardener”. Her project aims at restoring the coral reefs in Xcalak Reefs National Park, Mexico.

With the support of the Program, Gabriela visited the Rosentiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science and the Mote Marine Lab of the University of Miami, one of the most cutting-edge research centers for coral reef restoration in the world.

Gabriela is also excited to participate in the International Congress on Restoration in Australia, where she will present her project and have the opportunity to meet world class experts.