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The Protected Areas Trust (PAT) was proud to participate in the 28th REDLAC Congress, hosted in Bolivia under the inspiring theme: “Finance that drives conservation, Indigenous peoples that protect, innovation that transforms.” The Congress held October 6-8, 2026 brought together Conservation Trust Funds from across Latin America and the Caribbean to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and advance sustainable financing for biodiversity.

A Strong Guyanese Delegation

Guyana’s presence at the Congress reflected the country’s deep commitment to conservation finance and Indigenous leadership. The delegation included:

· Toshao Alvoro Simon: National Toshao’s Council Representative & PAT Board Trustee

· Kayrotoma Joseph Ayaw: Toshao for Kanashen Amerindian Protected Area

· Fiona Marshall: Assistant Commissioner, Finance, Protected Areas Commission (PAC)

· Oleta Williams: Executive Director, Protected Areas Trust

Together, the delegation represented the collaborative spirit that drives Guyana’s protected areas governance, bringing perspectives from Indigenous communities, national institutions, and sustainable conservation finance.

PAT’s Contributions to Key Panels

PAT was honoured to contribute to two major discussions during the Congress:

1. Indigenous Territorial Funds & Initial Conservation Fund- Direct Financing to Indigenous Peoples This panel explored how financial mechanisms can be designed to empower Indigenous communities directly. Guyana’s experience highlighted the importance of culturally grounded approaches and long-term investment in Indigenous-led conservation. The role of the National Toshaos’ Council and the Amerindian Act were emphasised as critical enabling factors for effective indigenous led conservation.

2. Sustainable Finance Mechanisms- Lessons Learned from Small Island Developing States (SIDS):PAT moderated this session with three other SIDS in the Caribbean, namely Belize, Jamaica and St. Lucia and shared insights on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by SIDS, emphasizing the need for resilient financing models, diversified funding streams, and context-specific solutions. The panel also emphasized that conservation financing cannot be a one-size fits all approach using the “Plantain can’t bear Banana” Caribbean analogy.

Strengthening Regional Collaboration

PAT’s participation underscored Guyana’s growing role in shaping conservation finance across the region. The Congress provided a valuable platform to share national experiences, learn from regional partners, and strengthen networks that support biodiversity protection throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. During the week in Bolivia, PAT engaged in a series of strategic side meetings with the Adaptation Fund, SURECO and Conservation International.

In addition to the Congress, the Executive Director also participated in the REDLAC Assembly and the Capacity-Building Workshop on Sustainable Finance Solutions, hosted by Enduring Earth. Convened alongside the 28th Annual REDLAC Congress, these events brought together conservation finance leaders and protected area networks from across Latin America and the Caribbean. The Assembly offered a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and exploring innovative approaches to sustainable financing for protected and conserved areas. Guyana’s formal membership in REDLAC in 2026 further strengthens regional cooperation and expands opportunities for conservation partnerships across the Caribbean and Latin America.