October 2024 Vol. 117

The Consulate of Belize in Florida

Monthly Newsletter

Honorary Consul's Monthly Message

Welcome to the October Newsletter!

“There has never been a challenging time in human history where an occasional laugh didn’t help us get through.” -Jerry Seinfeld.

As we near presidential, congressional and senatorial elections in the United States, dual US-Belizean citizens residing in the diaspora will be voting early or on November 5th, if they have not already done so. While many are anxious about the outcome, let us take a deep breath and have our faith see us through this tumultuous time because God is ultimately in control, and we must accept His will. Regardless of the results of the next election, we pray for a peaceful and just democratic process, safeguarding the values citizens hold dear.

While we all have family and friends who may think differently from us and who will vote in a way with which we may not agree, let us not allow our differences to divide us and instead identify the commonalities we share which will be the glue that binds us. Life is too short, and we never want to have regrets.

As another one of our monthly newsletters rolls out, I am reminded of how quickly the year passes by us. October brings with it the cool breezes of autumn and the planning for the end of the year celebrations.

In anticipation for the upcoming important celebrations In Belize, we are preparing for all the exciting Garifuna Settlement Day festivities on November 19th! It is important to take this time to honor one of the major ethnic groups in Belize who enriches Belize with their vibrant culture, cuisine and music. They are also peace loving and happy people who have lived in harmony among other Belizeans since they made it to Belizean shores on November 19th, 1802. Buidula Hafeduhani Haweyuri Garinagu! Happy Garifuna Settlement Day!

And to commemorate this important day, let us celebrate with food! I believe that food is the key to peace in the world. No matter what one is going through, sharing a snack or a plate of food made with love, will always bring a smile to someone’s face. In Belize we are blessed to have such a treasure trove of cuisines representing our diverse ethnicities, and Garifuna cuisine is no exception!

So, for the Recipe of the Month we chose the star staple, Hudut! Served with fufu, this fish dish aptly represents our vibrant Garifuna community and their love of living near the sea. Keeping with the Garifuna theme, cassava pudding is featured in the Street Food Series, the ultimate in comfort food and one of my favorites! Be sure to try these amazing recipes this month as we celebrate the Jewel’s distinct heritage and communities!

For the Belizean diaspora residing in the US, preparations will soon be underway to celebrate Thanksgiving Day. It is a time to sit at the dinner table and break bread with those we love and take stock of all the blessings in our lives. We wish you a very Happy and safe Thanksgiving Day!

Here in Florida, October was a very challenging month. As many of our neighbors in Southwest, Central, North Central Florida as well as Georgia and the Carolinas, began to rebuild their homes and lives from the destruction left behind by Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton spun its way into our state, affecting many of the same people who were still attempting to recover from

Helene.

While South Florida was spared much of the wrath, we continue to offer our support, thoughts and prayers to those who endured significant damage from one or both storms. The Jewel too has seen its recent share of storms bringing three weeks of constant rain causing massive flooding in most of the country in October.

The Government of Belize congratulated many of its neighbors and allies which celebrated their Independence Day in October. Belize acknowledged its commitment to one of its closest allies, Taiwan and her people on Taiwan’s National Day on the 10th of October to keep fighting for Taiwan’s full independence and recognition in the international community.

At home, Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño continued his work to ensure Belize’s strong position within the international community. The Prime Minister began the month across the border in Mexico City for the inauguration of H.E. President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the first woman to serve as president of Mexico.

While in Mexico City, Prime Minister Briceño took time to meet with the President of Paraguay H.E. Santiago Peña and with incoming Energy Minister of Mexico, Luz Elena Gonzalez Escobar. Belize is connected to the Mexican power grid and meeting with Minister Gonzalez Escobar ensures that Belize has a stake in its own power supply.

PM Briceño attended the opening of the Ready Call Center BPO, a well-established company within the BPO economy in Belize and one which is now going to be able to provide over 4,000 jobs to Belizeans, expanding the BPO market and contributing to helping #PlanBelize work for everyone. The Prime Minister was also on hand to engage with the InterAmerican Commission on Human Rights which sent a delegation to Belize to discuss the vast array of human rights issues that affects Belize and the region.

The Hon. John Briceño had the opportunity to get on a phone call with His Majesty King Charles III, King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Commonwealth Realms, of which Belize is a part. The Prime Minister and H.M. the King discussed issues facing Belize and other realms in the Caribbean.

Prime Minister Briceño welcomed H.E. Lin Chia-lung, Foreign Minister of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and presented him with the Motion on Democratic Taiwan, passed in September commemorating the 35th Anniversary of the Friendship between Belize and Taiwan.

Special Envoy for the Development of Children and Families H.E. First Lady Rossana Briceño visited girls at Louisiana Government School to deliver a presentation for the International Day of the Girl on October 11th. She encouraged the girls to dream big and reminded them that they get to help shape the future of Belize. During her visit, the Office of the Special Envoy was able to distribute sanitary packages to girls in Standard 4, 5, and 6.

H.E. Rossana Briceño delivered remarks at Belize’s first ever Oncology Nursing Conference, held at the Belize Cancer Society, thanking oncological nurses for the vital role they play in a cancer

patient’s treatment and advocated for research to raise the rates of both prevention and survivorship of cancer in Belize.

The Office of the Special Envoy visited St. John’s College Junior College to continue the Office’s series “Engaging Men and Boys to Advance Gender Equality and Help Prevent Gender-Based Violence”. This session trained 25 participants in reducing violence and fostering equality in developing safer communities.

First Lady H.E. Rossana Briceño accompanied the Prime Minister to Mexico City for the inauguration of Mexico’s first female president, H.E. Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. They had the opportunity to meet President Sheinbaum Pardo and express their anticipation of continued positive relations between Belize and Mexico.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade welcomed the CARICOM Economic Integration Mission to discuss opportunities to implement the Caribbean Single Market and Economy in Belize and continue to form closer bonds with our CARICOM partners. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also hosted the InterAmerican Commission on Human Rights to discuss issues facing Belize’s people and furthered a commitment to human rights in Belize.

Hon. Francis Fonseca received U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Mr. Brian A. Nichols in Belize City where they discussed opportunities for greater engagement between Belize and the United States. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized the Strategic Alliance International Partners Conference which targeted solutions to climate change which affects Belize’s growth and development.

Hon. Francis Fonseca welcomed H.E. Lin Chia-lung, Foreign Minister of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for a series of bilateral talks in Belmopan regarding areas of collaboration and mutual interest, drawing on the important friendship between Belize and Taiwan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade traveled across the globe to the islands of Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024, where Belize had the opportunity to dialogue with the heads of government from the various Commonwealth Realms both large and small.

We take the opportunity to highlight this month’s Star of the Month, Chef Lucy Chen, a Chinese-born Belizean from Corozal, who has brought a unique variety of sushi to Palm Beach County and an equally rich charitable spirit to the community.

I had the pleasure to sample Chef Lucy’s sushi at Sushi Simon, her cozy restaurant run by her and her husband, tucked in a shopping center located in Boynton Beach and it is indeed outstanding sushi and excellent service! Read more about her story in our Star of the Month section! We are proud to call Ms. Chen our Star of the Month! Belizeans do great things wherever they go!

And remember to nominate a stellar Belizean using our brand-new Star of the Month nomination form!

Our GOB Movers and Shakers marched to the beats of their own drums, ensuring that each beat helped the peace and prosperity of Belize and her people. Minister of Agriculture Hon. Jose Abelardo Mai journeyed to Honduras to visit palm oil production plants and learn about the ways Honduras has implemented its plan to eradicate the devastating New World Screwworm in the hopes that a similar plan could be implemented in Belize.

The Ministry of Defense sent a delegation to Mendoza, Argentina for the XVI Conference of Defense Ministers of the Americas, and Hon. Christopher Coye led a similar delegation to the IMF and World Bank Group Conference in Washington, D.C. The Ministry of Tourism is hosting the 80th Meeting of the Regional Commission of the Mundo Maya Organization, featuring high-level tourism representatives from Belize, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

The Department of Youth, Sports and Transport has, for the first time, launched the 501 Transportation app to facilitate public transit around Belize. The app is rolling out in Belize City and will soon be accessible to track electric bus routes nationwide. The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing also expanded their First-Time Home Ownership Program to allow more Belizeans than ever before to own homes.

Remember our usual invitation to look over the other sections of our newsletter, including our brand-new Human-Interest section, Belizeanism of the Month, Landmark Beauty of the Month, Belize and the World, Nature and Sustainability, Belize and the Market, and Travel. #belizeisbeautiful

We invite you to join us in this amazing opportunity to register as a Belizean with the Consulate of Belize in Florida so we can keep you up to date on all the exciting goings-on here. We are also devoted to showcasing and promoting Belizean businesses in both Belize and the United States; therefore, we encourage you to join the Consulate’s Belize Business Directory. You only need to submit your information, as described in the section “Belizeans Doing Business with Belizeans” which can be found near the bottom of the newsletter.

Don’t forget to forward this newsletter to family and friends. Your participation is vital in developing stronger ties within the Belizean community. Join us in building a thriving, integrated Belizean diaspora. And remember it is good to be a Belizean! Be sure to share the good news that Belize and Belizeans are beautiful.

#Belizeisbeautiful #Belizeansarebeautiful

Warm Belizean Wishes,

Janine Sylvestre

Hon. Consul of Belize in Florida

Trade Representative of Belize in Florida

National Symbols of Belize

Hon. John Briceño Attends Inauguration of President of Mexico

Hon. John Briceño traveled to Mexico City to attend the inauguration of H.E. Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo as the first female President of Mexico. Prime Minister Briceño thanks former President Andrés Manuel Lopez Obrador for his friendship as President and looks forward to a positive and collaborative relationship with President Sheinbaum Pardo. Read More

Hon. John Briceño Meets with President of Paraguay

While in Mexico City, Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, joined by Hon. Francis Fonseca, Hon. Michael Chebat, Hon. Osmond Martinez, CEO Amalia Mai and Ambassador Oscar Arnold met with the President of Paraguay H.E. Santiago Peña and Foreign Minister Reuben Ramirez Lezcano and other ministers. This meeting will help to forge regional ties for Belize. Read More

Hon. John Briceño Meets with Mexican Energy Minister

Hon. John Briceño and a team of ministers met with Luz Elena Gonzalez Escobar, new Minister of Energy of Mexico. Belize is connected to Mexico’s electric grid and has been able to source energy from Mexico for decades, and this meeting fostered energy security and areas for growth on both sides of the border. Read More

Ready Call Center BPO Opens

Belize is a hub for the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry, and Hon. John Briceño was on hand to see the expansion of the Ready Call Center (RCC), the first BPO center to open in Belize and now the third largest employer in the sector. This new expansion will allow the center to bring their total workforce to 4,000 and open up opportunities for more people in Belize. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Speaks with King Charles III

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño spoke with His Majesty King Charles III, King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Commonwealth Realms over telephone, discussing issues facing Belize. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Engages on Human Rights

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño welcomed Commissioner José Luis Caballero, Country Rapporteur for Belize and Chairman for the InterAmerican Commission on Human Rights. The conversation covered a vast array of human rights topics in Belize, including the rights of indigenous persons and citizen’s rights. Read More

Prime Minister John Briceño Presents Motion on Democratic Taiwan

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño met with H.E. Lin Chia-lung, Foreign Minister of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to present to him the Motion on Democratic Taiwan, which was passed last month in recognition of 35 years of Taiwanese-Belizean friendship. Read More

H.E. Rossana Briceño Presents Remarks to Girls of Louisiana Government School for Internation Day of the Girl

On October 11, 2024, the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, H.E. Rossana Briceno gave remarks to the girls of Louisiana Government School in honor of International Day of the Girl.

In her presentation, Mrs. Briceno encouraged them to dream big, stay curious, and never stop believing in themselves. Whether they want to be the next Prime Minister of Belize, design new technology, or help protect the environment, the future is within their reach. In closing, she reminded them that "you are unstoppable, you are powerful, and the future is brighter because of YOU." In addition to her presentation, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children with generous contributions from the Republic of China (Taiwan), Simply Help Foundation, and Nando’s, presented the girls with 147 sanitary packages which were distributed to support the female students of Standard 4, 5 and 6.

This initiative alone underscores the importance of ensuring that young women have access to essential hygiene products.

H.E. Rossana Briceno Gave Remarks for the Oncology Nursing Conference

On October 10th, 2024, Mrs. Briceno had the honor and privilege of joining other dynamic speakers in giving remarks at Belize's first-ever Oncology Nursing Conference.

This conference was commemorated under the theme: "Oncology Nursing: Connecting the Dots from Prevention to Survivorship."

In her remarks, Mrs. Briceno emphasized the vital role that Oncology nurses play in the lives of their patients. She noted that they are uniquely positioned to become partners in their patients’ journey, providing support, and commitment that naturally extends far beyond the clinical setting.

While the cancer burden in Belize, like in many parts of the world, is taking a profound toll on our population; by continuously supporting the capacity development of our oncology nurses, promoting health literacy among our communities, and advocating for routine check-ups and early detection we can make a significant impact along the system of care from Prevention to Survivorship.

Engaging Men and Boys Training at St. John’s College Junior College

The Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, in collaboration with the Spouses of CARICOM Leaders Action Network (SCLAN), the Ministry of Human Development, Families & Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, and with the generous support of the Taiwan Embassy and ICDF Taiwan, hosted a training session on Friday, October 4th, 2024, entitled “Engaging Men and Boys to Advance Gender Equality and Help Prevent Gender-Based Violence” at St. John’s College Junior College. A total of 25 participants completed the training, gaining vital knowledge on gender-based violence prevention, mental health awareness, building healthy relationships, and promoting gender equality in Belize.

This initiative plays a crucial role in fostering equality and reducing violence, key components in developing safer and more inclusive communities. We extend our deepest gratitude to the sponsoring organizations and St. John’s College Junior College’s staff for their collaboration and support in making this event a success.

Inauguration for Mexican President

Her Excellency, Rossana Briceno joined her spouse, the Prime Minister of Belize, Hon. John Briceno for the inauguration of H.E. Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo as the first female President of Mexico. Prime Minister Briceno along with Her Excellency Mrs. Briceno had the opportunity to meet with President Sheinbaum Pardo to personally congratulate her and express their commitment to fostering a continued relationship between their two nations.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Welcomes CARICOM Economic Integration Mission

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade hosted the Caribbean Single Market and Economy Mission from CARICOM to discuss opportunities to implement the CSME and advance the integration agenda. Hosting the meeting was Dr. Osmond Martinez, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and CEO H.E. Amalia Mai. Read More

Hon. Francis Fonseca Receives U.S. Assistant Secretary of State

Foreign Minister Hon. Francis Fonseca received Mr. Brian A. Nichols, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs. They discussed continuing opportunities for bilateral engagement, collaborating on common goals for the advancement of the region. Read More

Belize Celebrates Taiwanese National Day

On October 10th, Belize joined in celebrating the Republic of China (Taiwan)’s National Day. Taiwan is a very important strategic, economic, and diplomatic power for Belize, and Belize cherishes the close bond the two countries share while looking forward to building stronger partnerships to benefit citizens of both countries in the future. Learn More

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Organizes Strategic Alliance International Partners Conference

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade kicked off their Strategic Alliance International Partners Conference, organized in conjunction with the International Cooperation Council. The event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño and featured speeches from Foreign Minister Hon. Francis Fonseca and CEO Amalia Mai and is targeted at finding unique solutions to the climate crisis. Read More

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Hosts Inter-American Commission on Human Rights

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade hosted the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) in a series of meetings on the function of the organization. Hon. Minister Francis Fonseca and H.E. CEO Amalia Mai welcomed Commissioner Dr. José Luis Caballero, who led the IACHR delegation to Belize. Read More

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Attends Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Hon. Francis Fonseca led Belize’s delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2024 in Samoa. This biennial meeting gives Belize the opportunity to dialogue and share its concerns with members of the Commonwealth and work to find solutions to issues such as climate change, an issue that affects many Commonwealth members. Read More

Hon. Francis Fonseca Meets With Foreign Minister of Taiwan

Hon. Francis Fonseca welcomed H.E. Lin Chia-lung of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the Leigh Richardson Building in Belmopan to engage in bilateral talks regarding issues of mutual interest and expanding upon the already strong alliance Belize and Taiwan share. Read More

The Independence Spirit

In October, six of Belize's allies proudly celebrated their Independence Days. The Honorary onsul had the honor of attending a reception marking the 113th National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Miami, FL.

Lucy Chen, born in China and raised in Belize, in her hometown, Corozal, has forged a remarkable path in the culinary world, driven by her passion for fresh seafood and a desire to innovate. With an MBA in hand, she embarked on a journey to bring authentic and creative sushi to Florida, setting her sights on becoming the first Belizean to do so.

In 2008, Lucy and her husband Simon opened Sushi Simon, a venture that would become a beloved staple in the Boynton Beach community. The early days were challenging, as they worked tirelessly—often late into the night—cleaning, prepping, and promoting their restaurant on their own. Their dedication paid off, and through hard work and determination, they established a loyal customer base that stood by them, especially during the tough times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lucy’s commitment to her craft and her community was recently recognized when Sushi Simon was awarded the title of "Best Sushi Place in Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast" by CBS 12, an honor voted on by her customers. This accolade was not only a testament to their efforts but also a celebration of the vibrant community that has embraced them.

Lucy says that her roots will always be in Corozal and wants to say hello to all her family and friends who still live in her beloved hometown.

Growing up in Belize, Lucy developed a love for fresh seafood that would eventually inspire her culinary pursuits. She believes that every dish should reflect the freshness and quality of its ingredients, a philosophy that is central to the Sushi Simon experience. For Lucy, there is no greater joy than seeing happy, returning customers who appreciate the food she serves.

Outside of her work, Lucy enjoys cooking at home and spending quality time with her two dogs, Happy and Boss. She is also actively involved in her local community, frequently donating to local schools and charitable events to support the youth and give back to those around her.

Looking ahead, Lucy remains committed to providing fresh, authentic sushi to the people of Palm Beach County. She continues to challenge herself to introduce new and innovative sushi cuisines while holding a special place in her heart for Belize, where she hopes to retire one day, enjoying the seafood, culture, and environment that inspired her journey.

Lucy lives by the belief that “good things don’t always come to those who wait; good things come to those who get up and work for it.” She encourages others to dream big and work hard, knowing that with care and honesty, great rewards will follow.

We are proud to call you our

Star of the Month!

#Belizeansdogreatthingswherevertheygo

Nominate a Stellar Belizean!

Remembering

Andy Palacio

Andy Palacio (1960–2008) was a prominent Belizean punta musician and advocate for the Garifuna culture. Born in Barranco, he began his career in music after working as a teacher, eventually earning awards like "Best New Artist" at the Caribbean Music Awards. Palacio played a key role in revitalizing Garifuna music by blending traditional sounds with modern influences, especially through the punta rock genre.

His work with the Turtle Shell Band and the Sunrise recording project helped document and promote Belizean roots music. Notably, his albums Keimoun and Til Da Mawnin gained international acclaim, establishing him as Belize's cultural ambassador. In 2007, he released Wátina, a collaborative project that celebrated Garifuna heritage and won the WOMEX Award.

Palacio also held the esteemed role of Belize's Cultural Ambassador, actively engaging in media by hosting a television program and composing theme music. His untimely passing in 2008 was a profound loss for the preservation and promotion of Garifuna culture and music. We remember him with pride and gratitude for his invaluable contributions.

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Tourism Tidbits

New Cruise Ship Makes First Stop in Belize

Princess Cruise Lines' newest ship, the Sun Princess, made its first stop in Belize City on October 29th. The Belize Tourism Board, represented by Mr. Lloyd Enriquez, was on hand to exchange an official plaque with Captain Paolo Arrigo. The ship brought nearly 4,000 passengers to Belize, highlighting its growing appeal as a Western Caribbean cruise port. The Sun Princess is scheduled to return to Belize City on various itineraries this season. Read More

Trade and Investment Tidbits

Belize Looking to Purchase Electricity Ship to Meet emands

Prime Minister John Briceño announced that his government is considering the option of purchasing electricity from ships that supply the commodity. This exploration comes alongside assurances from Mexico's new President, Claudia Sheinbaum, who confirmed her commitment to honoring an existing agreement between the two nations.

Cultural Tidbits

Museum of Belize Launches Digital Maya Artifact Collection

The Museum of Belize has launched a new digital exhibition showcasing Mayan artifacts, allowing visitors to explore the civilization's history over the past four thousand years. Utilizing advanced technologies like photogrammetry, the exhibition aims to enhance understanding and appreciation of the Maya culture among both students and tourists. Governor-General Froyla T’zalam emphasized the importance of connecting contemporary Belizeans with their ancient heritage through this innovative display. Read More

Belize City Central Police Station

The Central Police Station in Belize City is notable not just for its law enforcement role but also for its historical and architectural significance. Located in the heart of the city, the station features colonial-style architecture that reflects the country's rich heritage. Additionally, its distinctive design contributes to the overall charm and character of Belize City's historical landscape. We hope you visit one day!

Let us Preserve and Protect our Historical Landmarks!

Cinnamon Bottaro

Trailblazer for Belizean Women in Diplomacy

This week’s "Wonder Woman Wednesday" shines a light on Cinnamon Bottaro, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Belize Embassy in the U.S. With a strong background in diplomacy, she’s been pivotal in boosting Belize’s global partnerships and advocating for national interests. Her journey started in Belize City and took off during a high school Model UN event, leading to internships and advanced degrees in international affairs. Bottaro inspires young Belizean women to break into diplomacy, emphasizing the importance of representation and empowerment in a historically male-dominated field. Learn More

“Big wo’d no brok man jaw-bone”

Meaning:

1) big words are harmless to the user or

2) don’t use big words

Minister Christopher Coye Leads Belize Delegation to IMF and World Bank Group in Washington DC Read More

Minister of Agriculture Jose Mai explores African palm oil industry in Honduras Read More

Belize attends the XVI Conference of the Defense Ministers of the Americas in Mendoza, Argentina Read More

Ministry of Transportation Launches 501 Transportation App Read More

Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing Expands First-Time Home Ownership Program Read More

Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations Hosts LXXX (80th) Meeting of the Regional Commission of the Mundo Maya Organization. Read More

Government of Belize hosts International Partners Conference: Strategic Alliances Read More

Belize’s Ambassador Attends Historic Inauguration of Mexico’s First Woman President Read More

US Official Visits Belize to Strengthen Ties on “Shared Priorities” Read More

Belize Assumes Chairmanship of the Permanent Council of OAS Read More

Taiwan Embassy Celebrates National Day with 2024 Expo in Belize City Read More

Louisiana National Guard Supports Belize Wellness Exchange Read More

US Officials Inaugurate High School Addition in Corazon Creek Read More

Belizean Youths Discuss Disaster Risk Reduction Read More

Belize Bird Festival Draws Hundreds, Showcases Nation’s Rich Avian Biodiversity Read More

Belize intensifies crackdown on illegal single-use plastics Read More

While Searching a Deep Sinkhole in Belize, Divers Recovered the Fossils of an Ancient Giant Sloth That Weighed About 14,400 Pounds Read More

Belize Advocates for People-Positive, Nature-Based Development and Climate-Resilient Housing at High-Level Biodiversity Meeting Read More

MCC, Belize Sign $125M Compact to Enhance Education, Lower Energy Costs Read More

Belize Updates Qualified Retirement Program to Attract More Expats Read More

Revenue in the travel & tourism market in Belize from 2019 to 2029 Read More

MIDH says Belize is not First Country to Use Tires to Build Roads Read More

1,500 Employee Capacity Expansion in Belize Read More

Belize Leads Net Positive Drive as Host of Inaugural World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards Read More

Belize Tourism Board Celebrates World Tourism Day 2024, Emphasizes Peace Through Tourism Read More

Journey Through Belize with the New Eco-Luxe Hike Trail at Cayo Espanto Read More

Preparing for hurricane season is of utmost importance for Belize and Florida, as both regions are vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes. Proactive preparation is key to ensuring readiness for potential disasters. This includes securing homes, stocking up on emergency supplies such as food, water, and medications, and having evacuation plans in place.

Early preparation helps communities minimize risks and protect lives during these unpredictable weather events. By staying informed about storm developments and following official guidance from local authorities, residents can effectively respond to emergencies and reduce the impact on property and infrastructure.

We are committed to helping you stay prepared, that is why we are sharing valuable information from the National Emergency Management Organization of Belize and the Florida Division of Emergency Management to keep you informed and safe throughout the hurricane season.

Belizean Teachers can Become Global Educators with Participate Learning

Participate Learning celebrates Belizean teachers transitioning to teach in the U.S., offering salaries between $41,000 and $55,000. The program provides strong support for the transition with free year-round registration and family involvement options. Participate Learning has placed over 15,000 teachers globally and supports further education through U.S. university partnerships. Learn More

Improvements Coming to the Ports of Belize

The Belize Port Authority and stakeholders reviewed data on the country's port industry to identify improvement areas. A recent study highlighted the ports' economic significance and the need for better infrastructure and digitalization. Topics covered included the importance of adapting to larger ships and technology, economic impacts of cargo and cruise tourism. Notably, cruise tourism accounts for about 4.2% of Belize's GDP, underscoring its importance to the local economy. Learn More

Assad Shoman Speaks on the ICJ

Belize’s legal team met in London to discuss ongoing territorial court cases with Guatemala and Honduras. With a heavy workload at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Belize's oral hearings have not yet been scheduled. Assad Shoman appeared on The Morning Show, noting that both Belize and Guatemala have submitted their memorials to the ICJ. Additionally, Belize has taken Honduras to court over the disputed Sapodilla Cayes, which both Guatemala and Honduras claim. Watch Interview Here

Hudut

Ingredients:

4 Green plantains, mashed
2 Ripe plantains, mashed
2 fishes, Red Snapper
2 Cans of Coconut milk
1 Onion, chopped
2 cloves of Garlic, minced
A handful or 2 of Okra
A touch of fresh Cilantro, minced (use Basil if you prefer)
A touch of fresh Oregano, minced Add Salt and Pepper to taste

Method:

To prepare the dish, start by peeling and boiling the plantains in water for 15 to 20 minutes. While they cook, clean and chop the fish, seasoning it with salt and black pepper or your preferred spices. Traditionally, plantains are crushed using a mortar and pestle, but a food processor works as well; add water if too dry and sugar for sweetness if desired. Next, boil coconut milk in a pot, adding oregano, cilantro, garlic, okra, and salt and pepper to taste. In a frying pan, lightly sauté the fish until browned. Once the coconut milk boils, add the fish and cook for an additional 20 minutes. Serve the fish coconut stew with the Fu-fu on the side. Enjoy!

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Cassava Pudding

Ingredients:

1 pound cassava root, peeled and soaked in warm water for one hour, then grated and pressed/strained
1.5 cups sugar
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup coconut milk
1 egg
1/2 tablespoon vanilla
nutmeg to taste
cinnamon to taste
(optional) dried fruits, raisins, pineapple, etc.

Method:

Preheat oven to 350°F

In a bowl, mix all ingredients thoroughly. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, until a knife inserted comes out clean. That’s it! Optionally you can serve with some caramel or sweetened condensed milk drizzled on top. Total time beginning to end was 3 hours, 15 minutes (18:00 to 21:15).

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Missed an Issue of our monthly newsletter?

September 2024, VOL. 11. Read More

August 2024, VOL. 115 Read More

July 2024, VOL. 114 Read More

June 2024, VOL. 113 Read More

May 2024, VOL. 112 Read More

April 2024, VOL. 111 Read More

March 2024, VOL. 110 Read More

February 2024, VOL. 109 Read More

January 2024, VOL. 108 Read More

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October 2023, VOL. 105 Read More

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Belizean Diaspora in the USA

Belize Business Directory

USA Database

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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