Join The Explorers Club on November 2nd and explore a unique and threatened Central American ecosystem through the lens of people and sharks.
The Moskitia region, located on the northeast coast of Honduras, is home to immense tropical rainforests, vast coastal lagoons, and several indigenous communities. Approximately 120 kilometers from the mainland lies a little-studied coral reef system known as the Miskito Cays. These connected seascapes are among the most biologically and culturally important regions of Mesoamerica. In this lecture, EC50 2026 honoree Gabriela Ochoa will take you on a journey through her country’s most remote region to explore the challenges and intricacies of shark fisheries and conservation, as well as the lives of those who depend on them. She will share the story of ilili, the first Honduran shark conservation organization she founded, and its work alongside Miskito communities to better understand and protect sharks and the ecosystems on which both wildlife and people depend. The talk will also highlight ilili’s work to document shark diversity, abundance, and health of remote coral reefs in an effort to protect them and create an indigenous-led protected area.
This in-person event at the Explorers Club Headquarters will include an audience Q&A.
RESERVATIONS
This will be an in-person lecture at Explorers Club Headquarters.
In-person tickets are $20 for Members, and $35 for the General Public.
Check-in will begin at 6:00 pm, with a beer and wine reception from 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Gabriela Ochoa
Gabriela Ochoa is a marine biologist and shark conservationist who integrates science, policy, and community engagement to shift perceptions of sharks and promote sustainable fishing practices along Honduras’ coast. She is the founder and director of ilili, the first Honduran non-profit dedicated to marine conservation through the lens of sharks and rays. From establishing the first shark fisheries baseline, to working with the fisheries department to promote legislation that supports fishers to creating new citizen science initiatives, ilili’s work is filling critical gaps and inspiring the new generation of shark champions in Central America. A passionate and strategic leader, Gabriela champions solutions that benefit both people and nature, driving a future where coastal communities thrive alongside healthy shark populations.
