July 9th - SPEAKER
Our server, Brian Mulvey, also served as our guest speaker.
In addition to his role in hospitality, Brian is a passionate documentary film producer. He shared insights about his latest project: a documentary on The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center.
Founded in 1983 by Sharon Matola, the Belize Zoo began humbly—born out of Matola’s care for a small group of wild animals left behind after a natural history film shoot. What began as a “backyard zoo” has since evolved into a national treasure—a world-renowned nonprofit dedicated to wildlife education and conservation, located in the Belize District of Belize.
Staying true to its roots, the Zoo houses animals that have been rescued, confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade, or transferred from other rehabilitation and zoological facilities. Enclosures are designed to mimic natural habitats, offering both the animals and visitors an immersive and educational experience.
Today, the Zoo cares for over 150 animals representing 43 native species and employs 50 Belizeans. With more than 60,000 visitors annually, it is also the first and only nature destination in Belize accessible to people with physical disabilities.
Belize is home to more than 125 mammal species, including manatees and dolphins in its marine environments, five species of wildcats, and an impressive 80+ bat species, which make up the majority of the country’s mammalian population. Most of these mammals are elusive and nocturnal, making them difficult to observe in the wild—highlighting the importance of the Zoo’s role in public awareness and education.
Adjacent to the Zoo, the Tropical Education Center extends the organization’s mission. It offers immersive environmental education programs and lodging for tourists, students, and researchers in Belize’s lowland savanna—encouraging deeper connection to nature and wildlife conservation.
We look forward to Brian’s next documentary project, which begins this September. He will be interviewing members of Generation Z across the United States, exploring their values, voices, and visions for the future.
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