Isabelle Paquet-Durand works at the Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic (BWRC) treating wild animals and promoting environmental protection.
The aim of the project was to set up a wildlife centre equipped with a veterinary clinic and an educational institution in Belize. The BWRC now treats all sorts of wild animals (including snakes, crocodiles, monkeys and jaguars) and also works with partner vets in Belize. In addition, it organises public awareness-building campaigns about wildlife and environmental protection.
The BWRC was established in 2010. Winning the “Inspiration in Action Award” meant that the centre was able to purchase its first modern X-ray and anaesthetic machines, thus enabling its volunteers to the start work at the clinic.
In 2013, a Belizean veterinary assistant was hired, becoming the organisation’s first full-time salaried employee. The first pens for wild animal rehabilitation were also set up that same year.
Over the first five years, over 1,000 wild animals received care and treatment. In 2016 alone, over 500 animals were treated, including a handful of pets whose owners paid for their care.
Are you working on a project that fosters biodiversity, and has a positive social and environmental impact? Do you need support to take your ideas further?
If so, apply to the Terre de Femmes Award and you may just secure a grant and the support of an entire network of inspiring women!
