Diving into Reef Week
Reef Week 2026 was observed from March 9–15 under the theme “Fi We Reef, Fi We Roots: Connecting Communities, Empowering Youth.”
Reef Week is about recognising the importance of keeping our environment clean as a way to protect our reef and the marine life it supports. It also focuses on raising awareness about sustainable fishing practices and helping people understand how everyday actions affect both the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods that depend on it.
It’s also a reminder that the reef is not separate from us—it is part of how we live, work, and plan for the future.
Reef Week in Action
Throughout the week, we engaged across different spaces—morning shows, school visits, and the Reef Week Fair—working alongside partners and grantees to share messages of reef conservation.
Each activity focused on reaching different audiences in practical, accessible ways.
Morning Show Conversations
On the morning shows, Chalsey Gill Anthony (Communications Officer, Belize Fund) joined Deseree Arzu (Communications Coordinator, Wildlife Conservation Society) to discuss Reef Week and its importance for Belize.
They highlighted the connection between the reef, the environment, the economy, and everyday life.
School Visits: Learning Through Engagement
Visits were carried out at St. John’s Anglican Primary School and Itz’at STEM Academy.
The sessions were designed to be interactive and engaging, using games and trivia to explore:
- Marine life found in and around the reef
- The importance of conservation
- People and organisations involved in protection efforts
- Students also shared their own ideas on how the reef can be better protected.
Reef Week Fair
The Reef Week Fair brought together organizations to share their work and connect with the public. The multitude of booths highlighted different aspects of marine conservation, including fieldwork, advocacy, financing, and education.
The Belize Fund participated by sharing information, engaging visitors, and using interactive activities to encourage participation and awareness.
Run for the Reef
The week concluded with the Run for the Reef on March 14 in Belize City. Hundreds of participants, including fitness groups and community members, took part in the 2-mile and 8-mile runs.
We loved the how the public came out and showed support for reef conservation. It's a reminder that everyone has a role to play in protecting marine ecosystems.
Reef Week is about sharing information and participation. From schools to public spaces to national events, the week highlights the importance of bringing people into the conversation and making conservation accessible. Reef Week 2026 reinforced a simple message: the health of our reef is directly connected to the health of our communities. And while the week has ended, the work continues.