Home / Environment / From Poacher to Protector: Turtle Hero's Journey
From Poacher to Protector: Turtle Hero's Journey
27 Jun
Summary
- Former hunter now protects endangered sea turtles on Príncipe Island.
- He transformed his understanding through a conservation monitoring program.
- He champions marine protected areas and community engagement.
Manuel Gomes, known as Lindo, has undertaken a remarkable transformation from a sea turtle poacher to a dedicated protector on Príncipe Island. For over 100 million years, sea turtles have navigated Earth's oceans, but many now face dire threats.
Gomes, who grew up in a fishing community where turtle hunting was a tradition, began poaching at age 10 to support his family. His perspective shifted dramatically in 2011 when he joined a conservation monitoring program, leading him to patrol nesting sites instead of hunt.
His commitment led him to leadership roles, including supervising the Sea Monitors Team and contributing to São Tomé and Príncipe's first network of Marine Protected Areas. Gomes effectively bridges conservation efforts with local communities by sharing his past experiences.
In 2021, Gomes received the Marsh Award for Marine Conservation Leadership, acknowledging his pivotal role in shifting from exploitation to protection and inspiring lasting change.
