Venezuelan Biologist Hedelvy Guada Honored for Global Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts

Hedelvy Guada, a leading biologist and researcher from Venezuela, has been honored with the ISTS Champions Award 2026 for her significant contributions to global sea turtle conservation. Guada, who heads the Museum of Biology at the Central University of Venezuela and is affiliated with the Institute of Zoology and Tropical Ecology, received the prestigious award in recognition of her career's demonstrable impact on protecting marine turtles worldwide. The award highlights her dedication to understanding and preserving these vulnerable species. In her remarks, Guada expressed concern over the declining sea turtle populations, stating, "We are having fewer turtles than 10 or 15 years ago." This observation underscores the urgent need for continued conservation efforts and scientific research to address the threats facing sea turtles, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Her work provides critical data and insights for conservation strategies.