A Conversation with WELL/BEINGS Program Director as we expand into the Dominican Republic.
“For those who haven’t visited, the Dominican Republic offers more than idyllic beaches—it’s a testament to the power of community, the value of preservation, and the beauty of collective action to protect what we love?”
Program Director, Prio Opelanio (far right) with WELL/BEINGS co-founders and donors on way to mangrove planting.
EXPANDING TO THE DR IN 2024, WE WANTED TO HEAR FIRST HAND FROM OUR WELL/BEINGS TEAM MEMBER, AND PROGRAM DIRECTOR ABOUT this new territory for WELL/BEINGS:
On a chilly spring day, I found myself on a bustling flight from New York’s JFK International Airport to Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s capital. Though I was traveling for business, the lively atmosphere hinted at something special ahead.
As part of WELL/BEINGS' Save the Mangroves, Save the Ocean campaign, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the Caribbean's wonders, from Vieques, Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bay to Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands. The region’s vibrant culture, rich history, and extraordinary biodiversity are unparalleled. Yet, these treasures face unique and pressing challenges.
This year, as we focused on ocean health and mangroves, we expanded our ocean health campaign to the Dominican Republic. Joining our co-founders Amanda and Breanna, along with conservation activist and WELL/BEINGS Advisor, Masha Kalinina, I embarked on a program trip to strengthen our partnerships with local grassroots organizations..
Our journey began with a desayuno hosted by Listin Diario’s Editor-in-Chief, Rosanna Rivera. Here, we engaged in a forum with local organizations about conservation efforts across the Dominican Republic. The next day, we spent an afternoon aboard local fishermen’s boats in Sánchez, guided by Ysi, a fisherman captain, and our partners at CEBSE. They showcased the conservation and mangrove nursery sites of Samaná Bay. Standing amidst towering mangroves in Bajo Yuna as the sun dipped below the horizon, I was filled with awe and a renewed commitment to protect these vital ecosystems..
YOU WILL BE VISITING THE dR ONCE AGAIN IN 2025, BUT tell us MORE about your RECENT VISIT TO PUNTA CANA THIS YEAR?
The Dominican Republic’s coastal ecosystems are indispensable for the well-being of its people and biodiversity. Mangroves provide critical habitats for marine life, protect communities from storm surges, absorb carbon, and serve as sanctuaries for endangered species. Yet, deforestation, pollution, and urban expansion have destroyed nearly a third of the country’s mangrove cover. Without immediate intervention, these losses threaten local wildlife and increase risks for communities vulnerable to flooding and erosion.
Trips like these help us forge networks with like-minded organizations and locals, broadening our understanding of sustainable development. We concluded our visit to Punta Cana, hosted by Paola Rainieri and Jake Kheel of Grupo Punta Cana. Their property and foundation lead innovative ocean health initiatives, from coral labs to conservation programs for the critically endangered Ridgway’s Hawk, the Dominican Republic’s national bird. Witnessing such biodiversity reinforced the importance of our work: restoring ecosystems and empowering communities through education and cross-sector collaboration.
Program Partners from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic sharing their findings and learnings whilst planting mangroves
Small and large, mangroves can be seen expanding and growing across the island of the Dominican Republic
AND THE WORK ITSELF, IN CONCLUSION?
Through our campaign, we plant more than mangroves—we sow the seeds of innovation, uniting individuals and groups in a shared vision for a thriving Caribbean. Our efforts aim to create a hub where animals, people, and the planet coexist harmoniously, safeguarded for future generations.
For those who haven’t visited, the Dominican Republic offers more than idyllic beaches—it’s a testament to the power of community, the value of preservation, and the beauty of collective action to protect what we love.
I'm thrilled to rejoin the team for our upcoming trip to the Dominican Republic in February 2025. I know this journey will once again offer invaluable insights from the locals and our partners—showcasing their deep commitment to their homeland and their remarkable efforts to protect our planet’s well-being.
This experience stands as a powerful reminder that, together, we are building a future where both people and nature can thrive.
How can our followers get involved and LEARN MORE?
Our website here is a comprehensive overview of our work and our current campaigns, so I would start there.
You can also get involved by:
Following WELL/BEINGS on Instagram
Email me for more information about our upcoming 2025 Programmatic Learning Trip
