June 2026

Celebrating the Anchors of Our Team

June 2026

Monthly Newsletter

⚓Celebrating the Anchors of Our Team: Happy Father’s Day from Big Creek Group!

As we step into June, the sun is shining a little brighter, the days are at their longest, and a familiar sense of appreciation fills the air. June brings many things, but most importantly, it brings Father’s Day—a time to pause and honor the incredible men who guide, protect, and inspire us.

At Big Creek Group, our success isn't just built on machinery, logistics, or numbers; it is built on people. This month, we want to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the many fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and father figures who make up our incredible workforce.

The Balancing Act: Dedication at Work and at Home

Being a working father is no small feat. It requires a unique blend of strength, patience, and tireless dedication. Every day, the fathers of Big Creek Group show up ready to give their best, driving our operations forward with a work ethic that sets an example for everyone around them.

But their impact doesn't stop when they punch out.

On the clock: They are engineers, operators, managers, technicians, and specialists keeping our wheels turning.
Off the clock: They are coaches, homework helpers, late-night advice givers, and the ultimate support systems for their families.

Managing the demands of a career while being present for life’s big and small moments at home is a masterclass in dedication. To the dads who transition seamlessly from the rigors of the job to the joys of family life: we see you, and we admire you.

Shaping the Next Generation

The lessons taught by a father figure echo for a lifetime. By bringing integrity, resilience, and a strong work ethic to Big Creek Group every day, our working dads aren't just contributing to our corporate goals—they are actively modeling what hard work and commitment look like for the next generation.

"A father is neither an anchor to hold us back, nor a sail to take us there, but a guiding light whose love shows us the way."

To Our Big Creek Group Fathers: Thank You

To all the fathers across all our departments and subsidiaries: thank you for the invaluable energy, wisdom, and dedication you bring to our team. You are the backbone of your families and a vital part of the heartbeat of Big Creek Group.

We hope you take some time this month to relax, kick back, and let your families spoil you. You’ve earned it!

Wishing all of our Big Creek Group dads, and the fathers of all our employees, a very safe, relaxing, and Happy Father’s Day!

🚢 Did you know?

The Story Behind the J.C. Griffith Tugboat

Did you know that our newest tugboat, J.C. Griffith, is named after the visionary pioneer who laid the very foundation of the Big Creek Group?

Next time you see her navigating the waters, here is the incredible history she carries:

The Government Era: Back in the 1980s, Belize’s banana farms and transport logistics were entirely government-owned and managed by a Honduran subsidiary of Chiquita called the Tela Railroad Company (TRC).
The Man with the Plan: When the government decided to exit the industry, they appointed Mr. John Craig Griffith to lead the monumental task of privatizing it.
Shaping the Industry: Mr. Griffith didn't just privatize the farms; he secured vital funding from Fyffes to restore them, and helped transition the Banana Control Board into the Banana Growers Association (BGA) we know today.
Birth of the Port: In a massive strategic move, Griffith successfully acquired TRC’s Belizean assets. This included buying Riversdale Services Ltd. (which became Banana Enterprises Ltd.) and officially establishing the Port of Big Creek.

In short: Without John Craig Griffith's leadership as Executive Chairman during that critical turning point, the Port of Big Creek and our modern operations might not exist today.

We are proud to honor his legacy of leadership, grit, and transformation on the open seas!

🌱Latest in Agriculture News: Belize Outlines Ambitious Plan to Revive the Citrus Industry

The Ministry of Agriculture is ramping up efforts to inject new life into one of Belize’s most historically vital agricultural sectors. In a recent high-level consultation at the Citrus Growers Association, Minister of Agriculture Rodwell Ferguson met with industry representatives, growers, and ministry officials to discuss immediate and long-term plans to rebuild and modernize the struggling citrus industry.

Once standing proudly alongside sugar and bananas as one of the country's leading export pillars—particularly in the Stann Creek District—the citrus industry has faced an uphill battle over the last decade. A combination of declining yields, financial hardships for processors, hurricane damage, and the devastating impacts of citrus greening disease have severely hampered production.

Recognizing its immense past contribution to export earnings and local employment, Minister Ferguson emphasized that the government is exploring every avenue to restore grower confidence and modernize practices. By bringing critical stakeholders to the table, the ministry aims to implement strategic solutions to boost production and ensure that orange and grapefruit farming can once again thrive sustainably.

What’s Next? Keep an eye out for upcoming policy frameworks and support programs stemming from these consultations as the Ministry moves from planning to execution to secure the future of Belizean citrus.

🥭What's Happening this Month: Hopkin's Mango Fest

June 13 - 14

📍 Where: Hopkins Village, Stann Creek District

Summer in Belize means one glorious thing: mango season is officially here! If you are looking for the ultimate weekend getaway this month, pack your bags and head south for the annual Hopkins Mango Fest (affectionately known in the local Garifuna language as Mangu Fest).

This lively, family-friendly weekend celebration transforms the scenic beachfront of Hopkins into a paradise for foodies and culture lovers alike. Here is a taste of what to expect:

Mangoes in Every Form: Taste your way through a smorgasbord of creative, mango-infused delicacies—from mango ceviche, tacos, and pupusas to sweet jams, jellies, smoothies, and cocktails. Don't forget to check out the "Biggest Mango" competition!
Rich Garifuna Culture: Dive deep into local traditions with striking cultural attire, storytelling hours for the kids, and unforgettable live performances featuring traditional Garifuna drumming and Paranda music.
Games & Competitions: Cheer on participants (or join in yourself!) in crowd favorites like the dory fishing contest, kayak races, drink-making competitions, and the legendary greased pole race.

Whether you are going for the sweet tropical fruit or the vibrant community atmosphere, the Hopkins Mango Fest is the perfect way to kick off your June. Come out, support local artisans and vendors, and celebrate the season in true Belizean style!

🌻Positive Thought of the Month

“A goal without a plan is just a wish.”

— Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

We all have dreams. Whether it is expanding a farm, learning a new skill, or simply finding more balance in our daily lives, our minds are constantly fertile ground for big ideas. Wishes are beautiful—they inspire us and give us a vision of what could be. But as the author of The Little Prince reminds us, a wish alone doesn't change our reality.

To bridge the gap between where we are and where we want to be, we need a roadmap. A plan doesn't have to be perfect, rigid, or overwhelming. It just needs to start with one small step.

This month, let's look at our biggest "wishes" and turn them into actionable goals:

Break it down: Divide that big dream into smaller, manageable weekly or monthly tasks.
Write it down: Putting your plan on paper gives it weight and accountability.
Keep moving: Even a tiny step forward is progress.

Don't just wish for a great month ahead—plan for one. What is one small step you can take today to bring your goal to life?

🎣Interesting Holiday - Celebrate National Fishing and Boating Week!

📅 When: June 1 – 7, 2026 (The first full week of June)

As we cast our lines into the month of June, it is time to kick off National Fishing and Boating Week! While this celebration originated as a way to highlight the joys of the open water and outdoor recreation, it serves as the perfect reminder for us to appreciate the incredible aquatic treasures right in our own backyard.

Whether you are navigating the tranquil waters of our rivers, exploring the lagoon, or heading out past the cayes, being out on the water is deeply woven into our way of life. This week is all about reconnecting with nature, spending quality time with family, and practicing safe, sustainable habits to protect our marine environments.

Here are a few ways to celebrate this week:

Take Someone New: Introduce a friend or a child to the patience and excitement of fishing.
Prioritize Safety: If you are heading out on a boat, take a few minutes to check your safety gear, life jackets, and ensure your vessel is in top shape.
Practice Conservation: Respect local fishing seasons, catch limits, and marine reserves to ensure our waters remain abundant for generations to come.

So, grab your rod, pack a cooler, and find some time to hit the water this week. There is no better place to unwind and find your peace than where the sky meets the sea!

Riddle me this ...

Previous Riddle: seven

I can be as calm as a mirror or roar like a lion. I have a bed but I never sleep, and a mouth but I never eat. What am I?

🤔

Answer revealed in upcoming issue.

Last Month's Activities

⏪May Rewind: Birthdays at Big Creek Group!

May Birthday Bashes!

May was a big month for birthdays, and we made sure our colleagues felt the love.

We gathered in the breakroom throughout the month to honor our April babies with:

Delicious Birthday Cakes: Because no celebration is complete without frosting.
Refreshing Drinks: To keep the energy high and the conversations flowing.
Casual Connection: It was wonderful to see everyone step away from their desks to share a laugh and catch up.

"Coming together to celebrate each other isn't just about the cake—it's about the community we build every day."

Happy Birthday once again to all our May celebrants! We’re glad you’re part of the team. Let’s carry this momentum of health and camaraderie straight into June!

🏃‍♀️☀️June's Wellness Tip: Sneak in Your Steps!

Happy June! With the days at their longest and brightest, it’s the perfect season to shake off the sluggishness and inject some extra life into your daily routine.

This month, our focus isn’t on grueling gym sessions (though those are great, too!). Instead, we're focusing on the magic of consequential movement—finding simple, effortless ways to get moving throughout your normal workday.

Little Changes, Big Rewards

Vigorous exercise is essential for long-term health, but sitting stagnant for eight hours straight can undo a lot of that hard work. Sneaking activity into your daily habits keeps your metabolism firing, your mind sharp, and your energy levels steady.

Here are a few easy ways to upgrade your daily routine:

Ditch the Lift: Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Your glutes and heart will thank you.
The "Micro-Walk": Set a timer to take short, 5-minute walks around your office or home workspace every hour. It’s a fantastic mental reset.
Swap Your Wheels: If weather and distance permit, try riding a bike or walking for local errands instead of automatically grabbing your car keys.

Why it matters: Incorporating small bursts of movement throughout the day keeps your circulation flowing, prevents afternoon brain fog, and delivers a steady stream of feel-good endorphins to your brain.

💡 This Month's Challenge:

Before you jump into the elevator or car this week, pause and ask yourself: Can I take the active route instead? Your mind and body will thank you for it.

How are you planning to sneak more movement into your workday this week?

The Port Hub⚓

Discussing all things Maritime 🚢

🌊 Steering the Shift: Women are Demanding Space in Belize's Maritime Industry

There is a quiet but powerful transformation happening across our waterways and ports, and it is being driven by women who refuse to just stay on the sidelines. Historically, the maritime sector has been a textbook example of a male-dominated field. Globally, women make up a mere 1% of seafarers. In the Caribbean, while women have found more footing ashore—occupying about 63% of roles in the private sector and 19% in maritime authorities—only a fractional 1% to 2% hold seagoing roles operating vessels.

But the tide is turning right here in Belize.

At the recent Women in Maritime Conference, the torch of leadership was visibly passed to a new generation. While veteran captain Monique Lamb captivated attendees with hard-won lessons from her trailblazing journey navigating literal and figurative rough seas, 28-year-old Jaeda Sutherland stepped up to chart the course forward.

Sutherland, who serves as the Head of the Projects and Quality Unit at the Belize Port Authority, was recently named President of the Belize Chapter of the Women in Maritime Association of the Caribbean (WiMAC). Her journey is proof that passion and determination can reshape a career; despite starting out studying literature at SJCJC, she has fully immersed herself in the sector and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

Entering an industry where veteran mariners sometimes question a woman’s capability—asking everything from whether they know how to change engine oil to whether they are afraid to navigate at night—Sutherland’s mindset remains unshakeable: "Anything a man can do, we can do, sometimes even better."

This shift isn't just about changing statistics; it’s about changing the operational culture. Belize’s Ports Commissioner, Kaylon Young, noted the immense value that diversity brings to the table: "Having more women involved gives a different dynamicity to how we see things... our way of management, our way of operations."

For WiMAC and its members, the goal is no longer just about gaining entry-level access to maritime careers. It is about retention, elevation, and leadership. It is about moving from the quiet background into the forefront of decision-making.

As Sutherland perfectly summarized: "We have been trying to push ourselves, trying to get into leadership, and trying to get a seat at the table especially. That is very important for me... try to get a seat at the table where the decisions are actually being made."

With leaders like Lamb breaking the initial barriers and young visionaries like Sutherland pulling up more chairs to the decision-making table, the future of Belize's maritime industry looks brighter, more inclusive, and incredibly dynamic.

#BelizeMaritime #WomenInMaritime #WiMAC #ThePortHub #BelizePortAuthority #WomenInLeadership #MaritimeIndustry

June's Financial Wellness Tip: Invest for Long-Term Growth and Income

Planting the Seeds

Happy June! As we hit the midpoint of the year, it is the perfect time to shift our focus from short-term budgeting to long-term wealth building. If you want your money to work as hard for you as you do for it, the secret lies in consistent, strategic investing.

Building a secure financial future isn’t about timing the market perfectly; it’s about time in the market. Here is your blueprint to get started this month:

1. Grab the "Free Money" First

The absolute best place to start is with your employer-sponsored retirement accounts, such as a 401(k) or a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

The Golden Rule: If your company offers an employer match, contribute at least enough to get the full amount. Turning down an employer match is essentially leaving free money on the table.
No Match? No Problem: If you don't have access to a workplace plan, open an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to keep your momentum going with great tax advantages.

2. Don't Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

Once your accounts are set up, focus on a diversified investment strategy. Diversification is your financial safety net. By spreading your money across different asset classes, you balance risk and reward:

Stocks: Driven by company growth, these provide the engine for long-term wealth accumulation.
Bonds: These act as a stabilizer, offering regular income and lower volatility.
Other Assets: Real estate or index funds can add extra layers of security.

3. Let Compound Interest Do the Heavy Lifting

Investing for the long term allows you to harness the power of compound interest—where your earnings generate their own earnings. Over time, even small, steady contributions grow into a substantial financial cushion that can provide both growth during your career and reliable income when you retire.

June’s Action Item: Log into your retirement portal this week. Check your contribution percentage, make sure you are meeting your employer match, and review your asset mix to ensure you're diversified for the future.

#FinancialWellness #Investing101 #RetirementPlanning #WealthBuilding #JunesFinancialTips

🇧🇿 Honoring the Lifeline of Global Trade: Day of the Seafarer

Every year on June 25th, the world stops to recognize the invisible heroes of global commerce on the Day of the Seafarer. From the everyday goods on our shelves to the critical industrial materials that keep our economy moving, nearly 90% of global trade relies on maritime transport.

Behind every successful voyage, every safely docked vessel, and every seamless port operation is a dedicated crew working tirelessly against unpredictable waters and demanding schedules.

Celebrating Our Exceptional Marine Team

Here at home, we don’t have to look far to see the spirit of the seafarer. Today, we are shining a bright spotlight on our own incredible tug crew and marine team—the true backbone of our port operations.

We want to extend our deepest gratitude and recognition to:

Our Captains: The visionary leaders who navigate challenging waters, make critical split-second decisions, and safely guide massive vessels into port with precision and expertise.
Our Sailors: The hands-on heart of the crew, whose strength, agility, and vigilance keep our daily operations smooth, secure, and moving forward.
Our Engineers: The brilliant technical minds below deck, who keep our powerful engines running flawlessly and ensure our fleet is always ready for duty.
Our Maintenance & Support Teams: Everyone working behind the scenes contributing to the vital upkeep, safety checks, and administrative support of our marine department. Your dedication ensures that our fleet never misses a beat.

A Commitment Beyond the Shore

Our marine department doesn't just do a job; they live a calling. It takes a unique blend of resilience, technical skill, and deep camaraderie to keep a port’s marine operations thriving. Whether they are enduring long hours on the water or meticulously maintaining equipment on standby, their commitment keeps our maritime gateway open and reliable.

To our captains, sailors, engineers, and support staff: thank you for your unwavering dedication, your hard work, and the sacrifices you make to keep our port safe and efficient.

Join the Conversation: Take a moment today to thank a member of our marine team! Let’s show them the appreciation they rightly deserve.

#DayOfTheSeafarer #MarineTeam #TugCrew #PortHeroes #SeafarersMatter #KeyHoliday

🇧🇿 Local Event: Pibil Fest

Savor the Flavor of Tradition

Get your appetites ready, northern Belize! One of the most flavorful and culturally rich weekends of the year is just around the corner. Mark your calendars for June 27th and 28th, because the annual Pibil Fest is taking over the beautiful village of Progresso in the Corozal District.

If you are a lover of culinary history, rich Mestizo and Maya culture, and—most importantly—tender, slow-roasted food, this is a local road trip you absolutely cannot miss.

What is "Pibil"?

Derived from the ancient Maya word meaning "buried," Pibil is a culinary art form that has been passed down through generations.

The process is a true labor of love: seasoned pork is meticulously marinated in local spices (like achiote), wrapped tightly in wild banana leaves, and buried deep inside a subterranean fire pit. It is then covered and left to slow-roast over hot coals for hours. The result? Melt-in-your-mouth, smoky, savory perfection that represents the very heartbeat of northern Belizean cuisine.

More Than Just a Feast

While digging into a hot plate of pibil with fresh corn tortillas is the main event, Pibil Fest is a full-on community celebration. The two-day festival in Progresso Village is packed with activities for the entire family:

Cultural Presentations: Traditional dances and displays celebrating our vibrant Maya and Mestizo heritage.
Live Music & Entertainment: Local artists and DJs keeping the energy high all weekend long.
Artisan Stalls: Local vendors showcasing handmade crafts, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks.
Community Spirit: A fantastic opportunity to support northern entrepreneurs, farmers, and cooks who keep these invaluable traditions alive.

Plan Your Weekend Getaway

Where: Progresso Village, Corozal District
When: Saturday, June 27th & Sunday, June 28th, 2026
Admission: Bring your family, your friends, and a huge appetite!

Whether you’re coming for the food, the scenic lagoon views of Progresso, or the incredible cultural atmosphere, Pibil Fest promises an unforgettable weekend. Come hungry, leave happy, and celebrate the rich flavors that make Belize so unique.

Are you going? Let us know in the comments if you prefer your pibil in a taco, a torta, or straight off the plate!

#PibilFest #ProgressoVillage #Corozal #ExploreBelize #BelizeanCulture #LocalEvents #CulinaryTradition

International Holiday: Children's Day

Nurturing Tomorrow

Every year on June 1st, the global community comes together to celebrate International Children’s Day. Established to honor the youngest members of our global family, this day is much more than a celebration of childhood joy—it is a vital reminder of our collective responsibility to protect, support, and empower the minds that will shape our future.

Children bring an irreplaceable energy, curiosity, and innocence into the world. Today is about ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, loving, and supportive environment.

The Foundation for a Brighter Future

The theme of International Children’s Day revolves around securing fundamental rights for every young person. When we invest in our children today, we are directly investing in the stability and progress of tomorrow. This means focusing on:

Quality Education: Providing the tools, classrooms, and resources that spark curiosity and foster lifelong learning.
Health and Wellbeing: Ensuring access to proper nutrition, healthcare, and safe spaces to play, grow, and simply be kids.
Safety and Protection: Creating environments at home, in schools, and across communities where children feel secure and free from exploitation.
A Voice for the Future: Listening to their ideas and perspectives, reminding them that their thoughts and dreams carry immense weight.

How We Can Celebrate Today

Celebrating Children’s Day doesn't require grand gestures; it starts with the meaningful moments we create in our daily lives. Here are a few ways to honor the day:

Unplug and Connect: Spend intentional, quality time with the children in your life. Play a game, read a book together, or just listen to their stories without distractions.
Support a Children's Cause: Consider donating to or volunteering with local organizations, schools, or charities dedicated to youth development, literacy, or pediatric health.
Encourage Their Dreams: Take a moment to validate a child's passions—whether they want to be an engineer, a captain, an artist, or an astronaut. Your encouragement is the fuel for their ambition.

Let’s use this day to renew our commitment to being the mentors, protectors, and champions that our children deserve. Happy International Children’s Day!

Share with Us: What is the best piece of advice you were given as a child that still guides you today? Let us know in the comments below!

#InternationalChildrensDay #ChildrensDay2026 #InvestInYouth #FutureLeaders #ProtectOurChildren #InternationalHoliday

Love is in the Air: Congratulating Our Newlyweds!

Here at the port, we talk a lot about teamwork, dedication, and building strong partnerships—but recently, a few of our incredible team members took those concepts to a whole new, lifelong level!

Please join us in sending the warmest congratulations and loudest cheers to three of our staff members who recently tied the knot. We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate these beautiful new beginnings across our different departments:

💕 Selvin & Angelica

A massive congratulations to Selvin Jackson from the Heavy Equipment and Maintenance Department and his beautiful new bride, Angelica Rodriguez! Selvin is used to keeping our heaviest machinery running smoothly, and we know that same dedication, care, and strong foundation will keep his new marriage thriving for decades to come.

💕 Carlos & Daniela

Cheers to Carlos Medrano from the BEL-AGRO Department and his wonderful bride, Daniela Carranza! Just like the vital agricultural work Carlos handles daily, marriage is all about nurturing growth, weathering the seasons together, and reaping the rewards of a deep, shared commitment. Wishing you both a beautiful harvest of love.

💕 Reynaldo & Angelica

Our heartfelt congratulations go out to Reynaldo Shol of the Security Department and his lovely bride, Angelica Coc! Reynaldo works hard every day to protect and secure our port family, and now he steps into a beautiful new chapter of protecting, honoring, and loving his new wife. May your home always be a safe haven of peace and happiness.

To Our Newlyweds:

Stepping into marriage is a beautiful journey of shared dreams, laughter through the rough seas, and a partnership that grows stronger with each passing day. Your port family is incredibly proud of you all, and we wish each couple a lifetime of unconditional love, good health, and endless joy.

Drop Your Well-Wishes: Let’s shower our colleagues with love! Leave your congratulatory messages, marriage advice, or favorite blessings for Selvin, Carlos, and Reynaldo!

#PortFamily #JustMarried #TieingThe Knot #Congratulations #StaffCelebration #LoveAndMarriage