He's known in Belize as the Manatee Man for his love of and campaign for the protection of the slow-moving aquatic mammals. The West Indian Manatees have made it to the endangered list of animals because of their reducing numbers, largely caused by boat propellers and coupled with their low reproductive rate. And the efforts of Jamal Galves have not gone unnoticed. This villager from Gales Point Manatee has gained the attention of National Geographic, an American television network and flagship channel and magazine that capture the world's animals in their natural habitat. Galves has been tapped as one of Nat Geo's selection for its Explorer's Club – as one of the world's fifty most influential persons who are changing the world. It's quite a recognition to earn, but while Galves is grateful for the achievement, he hopes that when he completes his Master's degree in June of this year, there will be a meaningful opportunity for him to take his efforts of conservation and manatee protection to another level.
Jamal Galves, Makes Nat Geo's Top 50 List
"It's definitely appreciated, gratifying. I'm humbled by it. But I accept this for many people because I always say my journey has been one of many people, influenced by many, many, many individuals - too many to mention. So that's an acknowledgment of their effort, of what they've given and done for me as well. So I'm only a recipient of this recognition. But the value is what Belizeans do with it. Are we just going to recognize these accolades or are we going to utilize the knowledge and experience of individuals like myself and my colleague, Dr Rachel Gabb, who was also recognized as well, to implement - to make Belize better? Is the Government of Belize going to use the talent of individuals like myself and many other Belizeans that are capable to sort of see how we can actually utilize our knowledge to make things better in Belize? That to me is where the bigger value is. I appreciate the recognition, but I want to see it go to that level. It's the only way that change is going to come about. And to be on the ground to work particularly with the school kids. They had conversation with Minister Fonseca about how we can implement some of my work in the educational system. That's very encouraging and inspiring because that really is what's going to make a difference."
Galves says that he dedicates his recognition to his friend and colleague, Vivian Ramnarace, who was one of three persons who were killed at her home in January in Belmopan.
Channel 5
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