It is an honor to introduce myself as the new President of the Latin American and Caribbean Chapter of the World Aquaculture Society (WAS). I am excited to begin this new chapter with an exceptional team, which includes Dr. Marcelo Shei (Brazil), as president-elect, Dr. Jesaias Costa (Brazil), Laura Silva as Secretary and Dr. Juli-Anne Russo (Jamaica) and Adriana Muñoz as Directors. I deeply appreciate our outgoing president, Francisco Javier Cordero, for his invaluable leadership and commitment, who will continue to provide us with his support on the Board, sharing his experience to continue strengthening our community. Special recognition and thanks to Dr. Maria Celia Portella for her valuable support on Board duties.

An Unforgettable Event in Medellín

I want to extend my recognition to everyone who made the success of the recent event in Medellín (September 23 to 27) possible. Thanks to their efforts, we managed to bring together 2,211 attendees from 5 countries, with an outstanding participation of 246 students, the presentation of 584 abstracts, 193 posters, and 391 oral presentations distributed in 61 sessions, in addition to having 64 booths at the commercial exhibition.

This event marked a milestone, especially for the space dedicated to new generations who are beginning to forge their path in the exciting world of aquaculture. Under the motto "Weaving networks: passions that connect, voices that inspire," the 64 participating students had the opportunity to develop interpersonal and professional skills through personalized mentoring, networking activities and workshops focused on key topics such as nutrition and feeding of aquatic organisms, sustainable aquaculture, and agribusiness. These initiatives reinforce our Society's commitment to professional growth and connection between generations.

Opportunities to Participate

Looking ahead, I want to inform you that at the beginning of 2025 we will open new calls to join the Board of this chapter. I invite you to reflect on possible candidates and prepare your proposals. The active participation of our community is key to continue promoting aquaculture in the region.

A Call to Action

Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of each of us, as part of this noble aquaculture activity, assuming the role of ambassadors in all possible forums. We must promote the relevance of aquaculture projects, which are not only sustainable, but in many cases are even regenerative, contributing to the well-being of our communities and ecosystems.

Furthermore, I encourage you to invite your colleagues, aquaculturists and students to join our Society. Take advantage of the promotions available for registration and help strengthen our network, which continues to grow and evolve for the benefit of aquaculture in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Together, we will continue to build a bright future for our industry. Thank you for your trust and commitment! We hope you can start making plans to see us in Puerto Varas, Chile this October 2025.
— Luis Andrés Gonzalez-Agraz, President