A Ranger for a Day – Writing Competition
The A Ranger for a Day experience is open to students across Belize in Standards 4, 5, and 6. Selected participants will have the opportunity to shadow rangers at the Mayflower Bocawina National Park, learning firsthand about the vital role rangers play in managing protected areas and safeguarding Belize’s natural heritage.
Competition Launch
The activity officially opens on October 15, 2025, and will be promoted via APAMO and PACT’s and social media platforms and email distribution lists.
Selection
Students will be invited to submit a short letter to APAMO and PACT explaining:
- Their interest in being a ranger for a day;
- What about nature inspires them; and
- How they imagine helping the environment in the future.
Letters must be no longer than 500 words, with no more than 20% generated using AI tools. Submissions should be made via Google Form on or before October 29, 2025.
A panel of judges comprising representatives from APAMO, PACT and a third party will review applications and select six students to participate. Parents/guardians of selected students will be contacted directly, after which the results will be announced on APAMO and PACT’s social media networks.
Judging Criteria
| Criteria | Description | Weight (%) |
| Understanding of a Protected Area | Demonstrates understanding of what is a protected area | 25% |
| Understanding of a Ranger’s Role | Demonstrates awareness of why rangers are important and the value of their work. | 25% |
| Personal Motivation & Connection | Expresses a clear personal interest in nature, conservation, or becoming a ranger. | 25% |
| Creativity & Originality | Shows imagination in ideas, storytelling, or expression (e.g., how they would help nature, their vision of a ranger). (≤20% AI use) | 20% |
| Compliance with Guidelines | Adheres to word limit and submission form | 5% |
For more information contact Ms. Alissa Roches at programdirector@apamobelize.org or Ms. Jeanelle Mencias at cmmanger@pactbelize.org.
>>> Click on link to complete submission form <<<
https://forms.gle/YNy5MmPfHU1v7kY87
APAMO and PACT may publish submitted letters as a part of their wider co-marketing campaign. Photographs, videos, and recordings will be taken of the selected participants during the event and may be used by APAMO and PACT for educational and promotional purposes.
