Helping Sharks Survive and Thrive With Gabriela Ochoa

Gabriela 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.