PRESIDENT

Armed with an unwavering passion for sport fishing and a vision for expanding awareness of Belize’s marine and riverine resources, Madelyn first joined the BGFA board in 2019 as VP of Sponsorship & Marketing before accepting the role of President in 2021. With a focus on community involvement, conservation, and the overall growth of the association, Madelyn is eager to continue BGFA’s legacy in her current role as President.

TREASURER

A loyal member since fishing his first BGFA tournament at age 7, Andrew’s love of sportfishing and marine conservation evolved from member to President, holding that position from 2010 - 2020. During his term, Andrew grew the BGFA’s membership into a diverse 100+ strong team countrywide, implemented releasing billfish, and advocated for the organization to play a major role in the Government of Belize’s Gillnet Ban in November 2020. After a brief hiatus, Andrew returned to the board as Vice President of Conservation in 2021 and is now serving as our Treasurer.

CONSERVATION DIRECTOR

Born and raised in Belize City, Jacinta's love for our marine resources runs deep, sparked by childhood days spent by the water's edge at San Pedro and St. George’s Caye. On a mission to protect Belize's marine wonders and ensure they thrive for generations, Jacinta earned her Master’s in Development Policy in South Korea and an M.S. in Environment and Development at the London School of Economics and Political Science, and dove headfirst into conservation by joining Oceana in 2016 as their Communications and Coalitions Officer. Today, Jacinta leads as Oceana Belize’s Outreach Director, spearheading initiatives with a passion for policy. Aiming to empower every Belizean to make waves for our oceans and the communities they support.

TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR

Initially joining the BGFA board as the Vice President of Conservation in 2023, Nathan now serves in the Association’s newly rebranded role as Tournament Director as of 2024. Growing up fishing in Southern Belize with his immediate and extended family, Nathan has been an active BGFA member since 2015, offering support wherever possible through fundraising efforts or tournament participation. As Tournament Director, Nathan is excited to further the BGFA’s capacity and membership experience!

WEIGHMASTER

Perhaps the heaviest role during tournament time, Giovanni—better known as Jovy—is responsible for the accuracy and transparency that BGFA prides itself on, governed by IGFA’s rules. After all, the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) is the leading authority on angling pursuits and the keeper of the most current World Record fishing catches by fish categories. Acting as essential personnel at our sportfishing tournaments, Jovy has served as BGFA’s weighmaster for a total of nine years, and counting, since being elected in 2014.

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

A dedicated and experienced fishing angler with a deep-rooted passion for sustainability, Morgan is excited to join our Board of Directors in 2024 under our rebranded role of Public Relations Officer. With strong leadership skills and first-hand familiarity with sustainable fishing practices for fisheries management, Morgan is committed to the responsible stewardship of Belize’s marine resources. Currently, Morgan splits her time as co-owner of the Phat Farmer's organic free-range poultry farm, in marketing and distribution, while assisting in day-to-day management of Belize River Lodge–her family’s fly-fishing lodge heirloom. Interacting with both Belizean stakeholders through Phat Farm and visiting guests via Belize River Lodge, Morgan holds the capacity to further BGFA’s membership and marketing goals as our Public Relations Officer.

ADMINISTRATOR

Sydney is a passionate advocate for the environment, education, and community service with a deep-rooted commitment to preserving the planet for future generations. While not serving within her family business advocating for responsible waste control, she actively engages in sustainable practices and advocates for eco-friendly initiatives. Sydney’s dedication extends to education, where she believes in providing equitable opportunities for all. Whether volunteering at local schools or organizing community workshops, she strives to empower others through knowledge. Family-oriented, Sydney cherishes moments spent with loved ones, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. A lover of the outdoors, she finds solace in nature, often leading her family on hikes and other outdoor adventures—and anticipates fostering that stewardship to Belize’s marine environment while serving as our Board’s Administrator.