December 2024 Vol. 119

The Consulate of Belize in Florida

Monthly Newsletter

Cayo, Belize

Honorary Consul's Monthly Message


Welcome to the December Newsletter!

“Deck the halls with boughs of holly, It's the season to be jolly, All the lights and decorations, Put up in the expectation, Of the joyful celebration that is on its way; [Chorus] Oh and God bless us everyone, the good, the bad, the happy, the sad; Oh and God bless everyone, Here's to family and friends, It's good to be here again….” Lyrics from The Magic of Christmas. God bless us everyone.


It is truly the most beautiful and the most magical time of the year. There is an inexplicable joy and merriment that abounds in people all over the world. In this special December edition of the newsletter, we’ve included all the traditional Belizean Christmas customs in the different parts of the country depicting the way each culture celebrates this special day.


For millions of Christians, preparations for Christmas started on the first Sunday of December when we enter Advent, a season of waiting and preparation. The deeper meaning lends itself to a time of reflection and hope, as we eagerly await the birth of Jesus and prepare our hearts for His second coming, for only He knows our hearts. “Come, let us adore the King, the Lord, who is to come”. - Pope Saint John Paul II, Christmas Day 1998. We hope that you enjoy reading the 2000- year-old story of the Nativity as told in the Gospel of Luke in this edition, taking the place of the usual Star of the Month.


This festive season reminds us that even in the busiest of times, there's always room to slow down and cherish what truly matters.


As I write this message to you today, Saturday, December 21st, I am reminded that the winter solstice is happening in real time.“...bringing the shortest day and longest night of the year to the Northern Hemisphere." The exact timing of the Winter Solstice which lasts only a moment, an official changing of seasons occurred at 4:20 am EST, according to inthesky.org. You can read more about this year’s solstice in our What’s Trending section!


I’m in awe when I think about how perfectly our universe works. It’s truly a cool thing. Let us be kind and gentle to our planet and all living things in it. And didn’t we have the most brilliant full moon last week?!


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño kicked off December bringing hope and good cheer to all, as for the first time the General Sales Tax (GST) was waived on local retail sales of all standard-rated goods on December 14, 15, 21 and 22, 2024, allowing families to make their Christmas purchases with ease. PM Briceño continued to spread cheer to children in Orange Walk with festive gifts. Others joined in the true spirit of Christmas such as Bowen and Bowen who donated and delivered 250 Jingle Boxes to families.


As the year draws to a close, the Government of Belize continues to make significant strides in both domestic and international affairs. We welcome you to read the Prime Minister’s heartwarming Christmas message to all Belizeans, outlining the accomplishments of his administration in 2024 while bringing hope for a better and stronger 2025.


The Prime Minister, the Hon. John Briceño has diligently been implementing key initiatives, including hosting the Social Security Board and the Development Finance Corporation to discuss economic empowerment and quality of life for Belizeans.


P.M. Briceño also welcomed Mr. Filippo Grandi, the High Commissioner for UNHCR, to highlight Belize's leadership in migration governance, including distributing permanent residency cards to

asylum seekers. Additionally, the Prime Minister met with the World Wildlife Fund to promote sustainable conservation efforts in Belize.


H.E. Rossana Briceño, Special Envoy for the Development of Children and Families, participated in a panel discussion on domestic violence on women and girls, Promoting Respect and Equity Together”, hosted by the Love Foundation. The Office of the Special Envoy also participated in an educational fair, visited the New Beginning Youth Hostel, and hosted another “Engaging Men and Boys to Advance Gender Equality and Help Prevent Gender-Based Violence” training in observance of the 16 Days of Activism on this subject.


On the international diplomacy front, the Honorable Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, led the Belizean delegation to the 8th CARICOM-Japan Summit while H.E. Amalia Mai, CEO in that Ministry, represented Belize in South Korea, forging trade relationships with Asia. Minister Fonseca also welcomed new ambassadors from the European Union and Panama, highlighting Belize's commitment to strengthening international ties. Belize also celebrated the 35th anniversary of the 1996 Child Protection Convention, marking a continued commitment to child welfare.


In the section GOB Movers and Shakers, read about how the different ministries are moving several key initiatives forward. The Ministry of Education has partnered with FIFA to bring digital education to 10,000 students over the next three years, while the Ministry of Agriculture launched the SHEP program with Japan to boost farmers' income. Furthermore, Belize is leading in financial transparency in Latin America, showcasing progress in various sectors.


We also invite you to explore more in this month's edition, which highlights exciting developments in education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.


And to get you even more into the Belizean Christmas spirit, please enjoy reading Ambassador Lynn Young’s Christmas message. Ambassador Young inspires us with all the authentic Belizean Christmas traditions like the black fruit cake, rice and beans and potato salad to go along with the turkey, stuffings and ham while bramming to the lively sounds of Belizean Christmas Brukdown music. While growing up, I recall waiting in anticipation for the jankuno dancers to visit us every Christmas Day as they made their way to other homes.


But more importantly, it’s the gathering and sharing with family and friends who have been with us through thick and thin, showing unconditional love throughout the years. There is also a great deal of nostalgia of Christmases past with loved ones who are no longer with us but who’ve left us with beautiful memories to forever cherish.


In keeping with the season, we’ve included some special recipes that will bring warmth to your table and delight to your guests.


The Belizean culinary delights of Christmas are endless. Last month, in anticipation for Christmas and celebrating Thanksgiving, we featured a Belizean stuffed turkey, so for December we are going with something equally scrumptious but original: Belizean Grilled Pork Tenderloin, sure to make an unforgettable Christmas Eve dish. And there is nothing that says Belizean Christmas like Rum Popo over crushed ice— Cheers and enjoy with a slice of Christmas cake!



As you prepare your festive meals and gather with loved ones, may the joy and peace of the season surround you. We hope this Christmas is filled with love, laughter, and the creation of new cherished memories.

Wherever you may be, we wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and may all your new year dreams come true!


#Belizeisbeautiful #Belizeansarebeautiful


Warm Belizean Wishes,


Janine Sylvestre

Hon. Consul of Belize in Florida 

Trade Representative of Belize in Florida

Honorary Consul Participates in

Holiday Celebrations

The Caribbean Consular Corps of Miami, in collaboration with Island Space Museum, hosted a special Christmas concert offering the public a delightful experience, featuring the opportunity to mingle, enjoy the lively sounds of steel pan music, and be entertained by the South Florida Caribbean Choir as they performed heartwarming Christmas carols.

Additionally, the Honorary Consul, Ms. Janine Sylvestre, participated in a festive holiday luncheon organized by the Consulate General of Ireland, Miami, bringing together Caribbean Consulates in Miami. This gathering served as a meaningful opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties, foster collaboration, and share in the spirit of the season with fellow nations.

The Consulate of Belize in Florida

Participates at Christmas Events

The staff of the Consulate of Belize in Florida represented the Consulate at two holiday events, the prestigious Consular Corps of Miami Luncheon, a gathering of consular officials and dignitaries, as well as the annual Miami International Airport Protocol Holiday Dinner, a longstanding tradition for local diplomats and business leaders. These events offered a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections and celebrate the festive season.

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Dear Fellow Belizeans,



As we near the close of another year, I take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! This season is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness, and no matter where we find ourselves in the world, Christmas holds a special place in the heart of every Belizean.


For us, Christmas in Belize is a celebration of rich traditions and cultural warmth. It is the fun of bramming with the joyous sounds of Brukdong music, the delicious aroma of black fruit cake baking in the oven, and the incomparable taste of a hearty plate of rice and beans with salad, turkey and ham. It is a lively gathering where laughter rings, and family and friends come together to create memories that will last a lifetime.


It is also a time for giving and sharing, as we remember the importance of community. Whether it’s a neighbor lending a helping hand or families coming together to support those in need, the spirit of Belize shines especially brightly at “chrismus time”. And it’s a time of hustle and bustle and pure excitement. In the words of one of my father’s Christmas songs sung by Bradford Pattico,


“Chrismus time in the City now

Every home dress up pretty now

Marley done buy and the new curtains fly

For the christmus season now”


To our Belizean brothers and sisters abroad, your contributions to our nation and your unwavering connection to our shared heritage continue to inspire us. You are an essential part of our Belizean family, and during this festive season, we feel your presence in spirit as we celebrate together, even across the miles.


As we look forward to the new year, let us commit to continuing the challenging but rewarding task of transforming the rough jewel into the shining gem that define us as Belizeans. Together, we will continue to build a brighter future for our beloved Jewel, grounded in unity, faith, and the enduring love for our homeland.


From all of us here at the Embassy of Belize, from our Prime Minister John Briceno and our government, and from my family, may this Christmas bring you peace, joy, and countless blessings. May the new year usher in good health, prosperity, and continued success for you and your families.


Warmest regards,


Ambassador Young

Belize Ambassador to the United States

National Symbols of Belize

Prime Minister's Christmas Message

The Prime Minister shared a heartfelt Christmas message, reflecting on the achievements of the past year and offering warm wishes for the holiday season. This thoughtful address highlights the values of unity, gratitude, and hope, while celebrating the spirit of togetherness that defines this time of year.


In the buttons below you can find the links to both the English and Spanish versions. Join us in embracing the joy of the season.

English
Spanish

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Hails "No GST Weekend"


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño announced the first "No GST Weekend", a weekend for Belizeans to save money on taxes, allowing them to have more money in their pockets for this Christmas season. The Prime Minister has promised more GST-free weekends in 2025 and beyond, hinting that it could become a feature of the holiday season. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Hosts Economic Development Organizations


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño met with the Social Security Board and the Development Finance Corporation to discuss matters pertinent to both organizations. The organizations are focused on economic empowerment and improving the quality of life of everyday Belizeans. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Welcomes UNHCR High Commissioner


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño welcomed Mr. Filippo Grandi, High Commissioner for UNHCR to discuss migration and forced displacement in Central America. Mr. Grandi praised Belize’s migration management and her efforts in migration governance. Belize currently holds the Presidency Pro-Tempore of MIRPS, which aims to create a coordinated regional response to migration. Mr. Grandi is perhaps the highest ranked UN representative to ever visit Belize. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Delivers Permanent Residency Cards


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño was joined by UNHCR High Commissioner Mr. Filippo Grandi in distributing permanent residency cards to 17 asylum seekers in Belize, re-establishing the meaningful positive impacts Belize has made for migrants throughout history. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Meets With WWF Representatives


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño met with members of the World Wildlife Fund to help implement a people-centered conservation model in Belize. This agenda will help deliver positive outcomes for climate, natural resources, and livelihoods, and continues to reinforce Belize’s commitment to protecting her unique environment. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Distributes Gifts to Kids in Orange Walk Central


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño returned to Orange Walk Central to distribute gifts and Christmas goodies for the children of San Estevan and Orange Walk Town to kick off the season of giving in Belize. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Meets with Belize City Council


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño met with the Belize City Council to review goals for 2025 as well as celebrate accomplishments and achievements of the past year. The Prime Minister and Government is committed to working with the city governments to help make life better for Belizeans. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Visits Silk Grass Farms Belize


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño took a guided tour of Silk Grass Farms Belize’s food processing factory, where they produce coconut oils, coconut water, and cold-pressed fruit juices. Silk Grass Farms Belize is a key example of sustainable farming and business practices, and is one of the many products that highlights the growing quality of Belizean-made products. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Inaugurates Belize Defense Force Kitchen Facility


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño inaugurated the newly renovated Belize Defense Force Kitchen Facility, which can seat 300 soldiers. These facilities are advancing #PlanBelize to ensure that our service members are well taken care of. Read More.

Inauguration Ceremony Coincides With Seasonal Luncheon


Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño and members of the Cabinet joined service members at their seasonal luncheon, where he expressed the nation’s gratitude for their selfless work in keeping Belize safe, especially during the wildfires earlier this year. Read More.

H.E. Rossana Briceno participates in Panel Discussion on Domestic Violence


On December 9th, 2024, H.E. Rossana Briceno gave the keynote address at a panel discussion on domestic violence hosted by the Love Foundation. This event was held under the theme “Promoting Respect and Equity Together: Our Collective Roles in Ending Violence Against Women and Girls." It brought together stakeholders, community leaders, and passionate individuals dedicated to addressing the critical issue of Gender-Based violence (GBV) in Belize. In her remarks, Mrs. Briceno highlighted the importance of collective action in tackling systemic inequalities that perpetuate violence against women and girls. Ending GBV requires not only robust laws but also a shift in societal norms, coupled with inclusive programs that engage both men and boys as allies in fostering equality and respect. The panelists, Ms. Azalia Laurieu, Clinical Social Worker; Ms. Diana Shaw, Attorney-at-Law; Inspector Shani Avilez, BPD Domestic Violence Unit; and Ms. Mindy Pratt provided critical insights, including the need to revise Belize's Domestic Violence Act to reflect the evolving nature of abuse.

The panelists emphasized the significance of:



● Strengthening the judicial process to support survivors, including issuing protection orders that safeguard victims’ rights to safety and stability.

● Addressing barriers survivors face when reporting incidents, such as fear, shame, or societal pressures, which often lead to the withdrawal of cases.

● Identifying and addressing red flags in relationships, from emotional manipulation to physical control, especially among young people.


The sobering statistics shared during the discussion remind us of the urgency of this work as 88% of GBV perpetrators in Belize are men, with the Caribbean region experiencing one of the highest rates of GBV globally. Yet, there is hope in the form of education, community advocacy, and accessible resources for survivors. This forum reaffirmed that every individual, whether through mentorship, policy advocacy, or providing support, has a role to play in creating a Belize where all women and girls are valued, empowered, and free from violence. As we close the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to ending GBV and promoting equity. Together, we can build a safer, more inclusive society for all.

OSE Staff Participated in an Educational Fair for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence


On Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, as a part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the staff of the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children participated in an educational fair hosted by the National Women's Commission. The purpose of this fair was to promote awareness and share more about the work the office has been doing including our initiatives held under SCLAN, particularly our "Engaging Men and Boys to Advance Gender Equality and Help Prevent Gender-based Violence". Thank you to all the students who visited our booth and participated in our learning activity.


OSE Staff Along with the Director of POWA Visited the New Beginning Youth Hostel


As part of our activities for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the staff of the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children in collaboration with Mrs. Michelle Irving, the director of POWA, visited the New Beginnings Youth Hostel. The purpose of this visit was to share with the girls at the facility lessons in financial literacy, self-love, and feminine health. This initiative included an activity where the girls had an opportunity to practice their budgeting skills and received clothing items, thanks to those that were donated by the Simply Help Foundation.


"Engaging Men and Boys to Advance Gender Equality and Help Prevent Gender-Based Violence" training


As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the "Engaging Men and Boys to Advance Gender Equality and Help Prevent Gender-Based Violence" training sessions were successfully held at Maud Williams High School on November 12 and Anglican Cathedral College on November 14.

Over the course of two days, students participated in two-hour sessions aimed at:

• Understanding the laws surrounding domestic violence

• Building healthy relationships grounded in respect and equality

By empowering our young men and women with this knowledge, we are planting the seeds of change to create a future free from violence.

Let's continue educating, inspiring, and advocating for a safer, more equitable society.


Hon. Francis Fonseca Leads Belizean Delegation at CARICOM-Japan Summit

Hon. Francis Fonseca led the Belizean delegation at the 8th CARICOM-Japan Summit. While in Tokyo, Minister Fonseca participated in meetings with foreign ministers of CARICOM member states as well as leaders within the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strengthen CARICOM’s relationship with Japan. Read More

H.E. Amalia Mai Represents Belize in Seoul


H.E. CEO Amalia Mai represented Belize at the annual Central American Forum of Trade and Investment Opportunities in Seoul, South Korea. This forum provided an opportunity for Belize to forge strong trade relationships with South Korea. Read More

Hon. Dr. Osmond Martinez Holds Bilateral Meeting With Jamaican Foreign Minister


Minister of State for Foreign Trade Hon. Dr. Osmond Martinez held a bilateral meeting with Hon. Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica. The meeting was highly successful and focused on facilitating bilateral trade, economic ties, and enhanced collaboration between Belize and Jamaica. Read More


Hon. Francis Fonseca Welcomes New EU Ambassador to Belize


Hon. Francis Fonseca received H.E. Dr. Erja Askola as European Union Ambassador to Belize, accepting her credentials and speaking on the partnership between Belize and the European Union and a desire to deepen trade, investment, and tourism between Belize and the European Union. Read More

Hon. Francis Fonseca Welcomes New Panamanian Ambassador


Hon. Francis Fonseca was on hand to receive the credentials of H.E. David Castro de León, Ambassador of the Republic of Panama to Belize. Belize looks forward to continuing to forge a strong relationship with Panama in areas of shared interest. Read More

H.E. CEO Amalia Mai Leads Launch of IBSA-Funded Projects


H.E. CEO Amalia Mai joined CEO Valentino Shal and UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Raul Salazar to launch two IBSA-funded projects that will integrate renewable energy and improve water and sanitation in rural villages in southern Belize. Read More

Hon. Francis Fonseca Meets with UNHCR High Commissioner 


Hon. Francis Fonseca hosted Mr. Filippo Grandi, High Commissioner for UNHCR to discuss Belize’s pro-tempore presidency of MIRPS and analyze refugee challenges and successes in advancing protections and solutions. Read More

H.E. CEO Amalia Mai Chairs Executive Commission Meeting of Proyecto Mesoamérica


H.E. CEO Amalia Mai joined Mr. Tony Rojas, representing Mexico, in chairing the Executive Commision Meeting of Proyecto Mesoamérica. Belize currently holds pro-tempore presidency of Proyecto Mesoamérica, a regional integration project for Central America, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic. Read More

Hon. Francis Fonseca Meets with Foreign Minister of Japan


Foreign Minister Hon. Francis Fonseca met with H.E. Takeshi Iwaya, Foreign Minister of Japan, on the sidelines of the 8th CARICOM-Japan Summit in Tokyo. The bilateral meeting discussed shared areas of interest and the growth of bilateral relations. Foreign Minister Iwaya acknowledged Belize’s efforts in promoting peace and stability in Central America and the Caribbean. Read More

Belize Celebrates 35 Years of the Convention on the Rights of the Child

Belize celebrated 35 Years of the Convention on the Rights of the Child with an anniversary event held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with UNICEF Belize. This convention highlighted the government’s efforts towards ensuring these rights are observed and respected for the future of Belize. Read More

Belize Elected to UN Commission for Social Development


Belize is proud to announce that it has been elected to serve as a member of the UN Commission for Social Development. Belize is committed to the advancement of social progress and the achievement of sustainable development goals. Read More

Belize Accesses to Inter-American Convention on Older Persons


Belize has accessed to the Inter-American Convention on Older Persons. H.E. Lynn Young, Ambassador of Belize to the United States and Permanent Representative of Belize to the OAS, was present to deliver the instruments of accession. Read More

Belize Accesses to 1996 Child Protection Convention

Belize accessed to the 1996 Child Protection Convention, a crucial step in ensuring the safety and well-being of children in cross-border situations and reaffirms Belize’s commitment to this ideal. On hand to deposit the instrument of accession in The Hague, Netherlands was H.E. Dr. Gianni Avila, Belize’s Ambassador to the European Union.  Read More

Throughout the month of December, we have been preparing our minds and hearts for the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the World. Read the story of his birth as told in Luke 2:1-20.


"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.


And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”


When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told."

Tourism Tidbits


Belize To Require New Travel Authorization From Americans In 2025


Starting in 2025, Belize will require American travelers to obtain new travel authorization. While paper forms remain available until December 1, 2024, the country is encouraging the use of a new digital platform at Philip Goldson International Airport. The system aims to simplify the entry process, though it is still in trial and facing some technical issues. The government plans to fully transition to digital soon, following the lead of the U.K. and Thailand.

Read More


Trade and Investment Tidbits

Belize Advance Key Trade Initiatives At CARICOM’s 59th COTED Meeting

A Belizean delegation led by Minister Osmond Martinez, attended the 59th COTED meeting in Georgetown, Guyana, focusing on regional trade and CARICOM integration. Key discussions included strengthening the CARICOM Single Market, updating import duties, and finalizing a Partial Scope Agreement with El Salvador. Read More

Cultural Tidbits

Belize Tourism Board Congratulates Participants of Battle of the Drums

The 19th Annual Belize Battle of the Drums competition took place in Punta Gorda, celebrating Garifuna culture with vibrant rhythms, dynamic choreography, and traditional dances. The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) congratulated the winners and was proud to sponsor this unforgettable event, highlighting the passion and creativity of the Garifuna people. Read More

Let us Preserve and Protect our Historical Landmarks!

Learn More

Aze-haad pikni go da market two time

Literally: Ears-hard children go to market twice

Meaning: Listening to advice can save a lot of trouble


Merry Belizean Christmas!


If you're not quite in the Christmas spirit yet, we've got you covered! Enjoy some festive music and a video showcasing Christmas traditions in Belize. Feel free to play it in the background every day until December 25th to help build the excitement for the holiday season!

Belizean Christmas Traditions
Belizean Christmas Music

Belizean Christmas Traditions

We warmly invite you to explore the rich traditions of Belizean Christmas. Simply click the button below to learn more!

Learn More

A Reflection on Indigenous Roots and Resilience

From This Land We Sprouted, and to This Land We Will Return

Learn More

Caribbean Boxing Day Celebration

RSVP


  • Ministry of Education Partners With FIFA to Reach 10,000 Students in 3 Years With Digital Education Program Read More


  • Ministry of Agriculture and Japan International Cooperation Agency Launch SHEP Program to Enhance Farmers' Income in Belize Read More



  • The Government of Belize Participates in a Marine Spatial Planning Peer-to-Peer Knowledge Exchange Event Between Barbados and Belize Read More


  • Government of Belize Announces First-Ever General Sales Tax Christmas Waiver Read More


  • Minister Jose Mai Advances Agricultural Cooperation During Mexico Visit Read More



  • Ministry of Public Service and US Embassy Host Second Annual Anti-Corruption Conference Read More


  • Dr. Hon. Louis Zabaneh Represents Belize at OAS Science and Technology Meeting, Showcasing Education Transformation Read More




  • Entrepreneurs Participate in 7th Annual Annual National Entrepreneurship Convention Read More



  • Pallotti High School Hosts Business Expo 2024 Read More



  • BELTRAIDE Honors MSME Champions for Their Dedication to Entrepreneurship in Belize Read More


  • Ella Waight Elected New President of National Trade Union Congress Read More


  • PROSPER Project to Empower Rural Communities to Build Economic Resilience Read More


  • Luisa Rivas de Che: Empowering Women and Fostering Fulfillment – BLAZE Awards Women Entrepreneur of the Year Read More


  • Bowen and Bowen Spreads Christmas Cheer with 250 Jingle Boxes for Deserving Families Read More


  • Belize Leads the Way for Financial Transparency in Latin America Read More
  • Oceana Announces 2024 Ocean Hero Awards Recipients Read More



  • CARDI Celebrates 50th Anniversary With a Focus on Belize’s Agricultural Development Read More


  • Belize and Mexico Discuss Green Coconut Trade Read More


  • Belize and Taiwan Celebrate Inauguration of State-of-the-Art Sheep Barn and Guinea Grass Water System, Advancing Agricultural Development and Farmer Opportunities Read More


  • Belize Implements Digital System for Immigration and Customs Declarations Read More


  • Punta Gorda Town Set for Facelift as Tourism Initiative Kicks Off Read More


  • Belize To Require New Travel Authorization From Americans In 2025 Read More


  • Belize Shines at USTOA Annual Conference: Showcasing the Best of Belize to Global Travel Leaders! Read More


  • Belize Tourism Board Celebrates Deer Dance Festivities in Belmopan Read More



  • Inaugural United Airlines Flight from San Francisco Arrives in Belize! Read More


  • Santander is Hiring: Operators, Welders, Technicians, and More! Read More


  • Belizean Doctors Embark on Specialist Training Program in Taiwan Read More


  • Guyanese-Belizean Legal Professional Called to the Bar in Belize Read More


  • Mexico is Interested in Importing Every Single Head of Cattle That is Legally Exported from Belize Read More


  • The Truck Stop Christmas Tree Lighting Event Kicked Off the Holiday Spirit on Ambergris Caye! Watch Video


  • Bob Marley's Grandson to Visit Belize! Learn More


  • Winter Solstice Brings Shortest Day of Year to Northern Hemisphere Read More
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Belizean Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½-2 lb pork tenderloin
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon chopped Italian parsley
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon Marie Sharps Caribbean BBQ Sauce, Belizean Barbacoa, Smokin’ Hot 


Marinate the pork

Pat pork tenderloin dry with a paper towel. Stir together lemon juice, garlic, dried thyme, parsley, oil, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, honey, and hot sauce.

2. Pour half of the mixture into a large Ziploc bag along with the tenderloin. Press out excess air, seal the bag, and chill for 30 minutes.


Grill the pork

Preheat grill to 400 degrees and oil the grates.

2. Using tongs, transfer pork to the grill. Close the grill and cook 15-20 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking and brushing reserved marinade over all sides of the pork halfway through grilling.

3. Transfer to a cutting

Learn More

Rum PoPo

Ingredients:

  • 9 eggs
  • 5 cans evaporated milk
  • 3 cans sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 pint white rum (Belize’s Caribbean Rum, is the best to use but a good substitute is Wray & Nephew. NO Bacardi)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground fresh nutmeg


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November 2024, VOL. 118 Read More
October 2024, VOL. 117 Read More
September 2024, VOL. 116 Read More
August 2024, VOL. 115 Read More
July 2024, VOL. 114 Read More
June 2024, VOL. 113 Read More
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April 2024, VOL. 111 Read More
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Here at the Consulate, we continue to work diligently in updating our database by calling members of the Belizean Diaspora and asking for their most recent contact information. This is to ensure we are able to share upcoming events, new services, and business opportunities in a timely manner. We appreciate your cooperation and support in sharing your contact information. As always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions.


Belizeans Doing Business with Belizeans


The Consulate's Belize Business Directory is new and improved!

The Directory's objective is to promote Belizean businesses in the US and in Belize. If you own a business or know of a Belizean who does and would like to publish it on our website, please send us an email with your contact information so that we can add it to our Belizean Business Directory.

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*News Sources for this Newsletter:

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