September 2025

Celebrating Patriotism and Unity

September 2025

Monthly Newsletter

🌟 Celebrating Patriotism and Unity

September is one of the most vibrant and meaningful months in Belize, as we celebrate St. George’s Caye Day and Independence Day. These milestones not only remind us of our nation’s rich history and resilience but also highlight the pride and unity that bind us together as Belizeans.

At work, patriotism can also be reflected in how we support one another, collaborate as a team, and contribute to the growth and success of our company. Just as our ancestors stood together for freedom and progress, we too play an important role in carrying that spirit of determination into everything we do.

Here are a few ways we can embrace the spirit of September in our workplace:

Show teamwork: Just as national celebrations bring communities together, teamwork helps us achieve our goals more effectively.
Celebrate responsibly: Enjoy the festivities with pride while remembering the importance of safety and responsibility.
Support local culture: Whether it’s food, music, or traditions, participating in and appreciating our culture strengthens our national identity.
Take pride in your work: Patriotism is not only about waving the flag but also about doing our jobs with dedication, knowing our efforts contribute to the greater good.

As Belize turns 41 this Independence Day, let us celebrate with pride and carry the values of unity, resilience, and progress into both our personal and professional lives. Together, we continue to build a brighter future — for our country, our community, and our workplace.

🤔 Did you know?

There is a special day we can celebrate on September 7th

Everyone knows about Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, which are widely celebrated across the world. But did you know there is also a special day dedicated to those who are blessed to become grandfathers and grandmothers? It’s called Grandparents’ Day, and it is normally celebrated every year on the first Sunday of September.

Grandparents hold a special place in our families, offering wisdom, love, and traditions that help shape who we are. Grandparents’ Day is the perfect opportunity to honor and cherish them in meaningful ways. Here are a few simple yet heartfelt ideas to celebrate:

Spend quality time – Visit them, share a meal, or plan a fun family gathering.
Create memories – Look through old photo albums together or record their stories for future generations.
Give a personal touch – Handwritten cards, drawings from the kids, or even a homemade treat can mean the world.
Share experiences – Take a walk, cook a favorite family recipe, or enjoy a game they love playing.
Show appreciation – Sometimes, a sincere “thank you” and a warm hug can be the best gift of all.

Let’s not forget to celebrate the role of grandparents in our lives, as they continue to guide us with love, patience, and countless lessons.

🌱Latest in Agriculture News: Belize Launches Soil Doctor Training Programme

Belize has officially launched the Soil Doctor Training Programme, an initiative aimed at strengthening soil conservation and promoting sustainable land management. The programme is being led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE) in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and was officially opened in Belmopan on Monday.

The five-day training-of-trainers workshop, facilitated by FAO soil expert Juan Carlos Rey Brina, brings together agricultural extension officers from MAFSE and other stakeholders. Once certified, these officers will train a national network of “Soil Doctors”—community-level champions who will work directly with farmers to promote best practices in soil health and management.

According to the Ministry, “Through hands-on training, the programme equips extension officers with practical tools and knowledge to support farmers in diagnosing soil issues, implementing conservation measures, and adopting climate-smart agricultural practices.”

The Soil Doctor initiative forms part of the FAO’s Global Soil Partnership, aligning Belize with international efforts to ensure healthier soils and more resilient farming systems for the future.

Source: https://www.greaterbelize.com/belize-partners-with-fao-on-soil-conservation-training/

BELIZE: Celebrate 44 Years of Independence

September 21

September is a month of pride and celebration for all Belizeans as we mark the anniversary of our nation’s independence. On September 21st, Belize turns 44—a milestone that reminds us of the strength, resilience, and unity of our people. Patriotism is more than just waving the flag; it is about honoring our heritage, protecting our freedoms, and contributing positively to the growth of our communities and country.

At Big Creek Group, we join the nation in celebrating this special occasion. Just as Belize has grown through determination and collective effort, we remain committed to building a stronger company and community through teamwork, dedication, and national pride. As we celebrate this September, let us remember that patriotism is lived not only in words but also in our actions—by respecting each other, uplifting our country, and contributing to a brighter future for Belize.

Happy Independence, Belize!

Positive Thought of the Month

“When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.”

— Paulo Coelho

At Big Creek Group, growth is not just about improving our operations—it’s about improving ourselves. When each of us takes small steps to learn, adapt, and strive for excellence, we uplift our teams, our workplace, and even our community.

By focusing on being better today than we were yesterday, we create a positive ripple effect that strengthens our company culture and helps us achieve greater success together.🌟

🎉 Carnival Road March: A Celebration of Culture and Patriotism

September 17

This September, the streets of Belize City will once again come alive with the vibrant energy of the Carnival Road March, one of the most anticipated events of the year. Since its start in 1975, this annual celebration has continued to grow and will showcase the very best of Belizean culture, unity, and patriotism.

The festivities will kick off before sunrise with the lively J’ouvert, where revelers will take to the streets in paint, mud, and powder, dancing to the rhythm of soca and carnival music. The excitement will build into the grand parade, where dazzling costumes, pulsating beats, and vibrant dance performances will fill the streets with unmatched joy and energy. The celebration will culminate with the jump-up party at BTL Park, where thousands will gather to close out the day in true Belizean style.

At Big Creek Group, we look forward to the Carnival Road March as a reminder of the importance of community, tradition, and national pride. Just as carnival will unite Belizeans from every walk of life, our team remains committed to working together toward building a stronger and more unified future.

Riddle me this ...

Previous Riddle: it would be a foot

What has a bottom at the top?

🤔

Answer revealed in upcoming issue.

🌿September's Wellness Tip: Snack Smart

Snacking can give you the energy boost you need to get through the day—but it’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits. Instead of reaching for processed snacks that leave you feeling sluggish, choose options that fuel your body and mind.

✔️ Try a handful of mixed nuts for healthy fats and protein

✔️ Crunch on fresh veggies for fiber and vitamins

✔️ Enjoy Greek yogurt for a boost of probiotics and calcium

✔️ Treat yourself to a piece of dark chocolate for antioxidants

(in moderation!)

Making mindful snack choices helps you stay energized, focused, and ready to tackle your day at Big Creek Group.

The Port Hub⚓

Discussing all things Maritime 🚢

🌊 World Maritime Day - September 25th

On September 25th, the world will celebrate World Maritime Day, and here in Belize, the Belize Port Authority is expected to host an expo to commemorate this special occasion. This annual event plays a vital role in raising awareness about the maritime sector and providing an opportunity to share knowledge and experiences with those who attend.

The insights shared during the expo will be fundamental in inspiring the next generation of maritime professionals, ensuring that the industry continues to grow with skilled and passionate individuals.

Events like these are not only about celebration but also about education, collaboration, and community engagement. They highlight the importance of maritime trade to Belize’s economy, showcase advancements in safety and sustainability, and foster stronger connections among stakeholders in the sector.

Together, we are building a deeper understanding of this vital industry—one that supports global trade, connects nations, and sustains livelihoods. We look forward to this yearly event and the positive impact it continues to create!

🦺September's Safety Tip: Use Protective Equipment Correctly

WProtective equipment is only effective when it’s used the right way. At Big Creek Group, safety is a top priority, whether working at the Port of Big Creek, in our fertilizer warehouses, or in office environments.

🔹 Training Matters – Employees should know how to properly wear, adjust, and remove protective gear.

🔹 Inspect Regularly – Always check equipment for damage or wear before use.

🔹 Stay Consistent – Proper use and maintenance of protective gear help reduce injury risks and keep everyone safe.

By using protective equipment correctly, we create a safer workplace for all and ensure that daily operations continue smoothly and without unnecessary risks.

The Exceutive Brief💼

SHIPPING ISN'T SINKING. IT'S BEING HIJACKED - AND YOUR BRIDGE IS NEXT

- Captain Alejandros Lignos

🚩Maersk lost $300 million from a malware attack. What happens when the breach hits your rudder - not your office?

In 2017, Maersk was paralyzed by NotPetya. 17 terminals shut down. Global tracking gone. Operations frozen in 130 countries. The damage: $300 million - from a single piece of code.

That wasn’t fiction. That was the wake-up call. We hit snooze.

In 2018, COSCO Shipping was next. Their U.S. network collapsed. Emails dead. Bookings rerouted to personal Gmail accounts. Clients were told to “please call local agents for updates.”

In 2020, the IMO - yes, the organization that writes the cyber rules - got hacked. Their entire web infrastructure went offline. During a regulatory session.

In 2021, the Port of Houston was breached. Hackers used stolen credentials to infiltrate OT networks. The FBI confirmed it: state-sponsored targeting of U.S. critical infrastructure.

And in 2019, in the Strait of Hormuz, dozens of vessels experienced GPS spoofing. Ships were digitally “relocated” miles from their actual positions. ECDIS data falsified. No pirates. No weapons. Just signals - hijacked.

Now ask yourself:

What happens when the next cyberattack isn’t onshore… but on the bridge?
When “GPS SIGNAL LOST” flashes red - and it’s not a glitch, it’s an invisible hijack?
When your vessel is drifting… and the helm doesn’t respond?

This isn’t an IT issue. It’s a safety issue. It’s a crew issue. It’s a leadership issue.

Here’s what we’re up against:

400% increase in OT system attacks since 2020 (DNV)
Only 5% of crews receive structured cyber training (DNV)
96% of maritime incidents involve human error (Allianz)
89,510 officers short by 2026 (BIMCO/ICS) - and most aren’t cyber-ready

We’re building smarter ships. But with dumber protocols.

We’re investing in decarbonization. But not in defense.

We’re filling bridges with automation. But not with awareness.

So when the next cyberattack strikes - will your ship keep sailing? Or will it drift into darkness, while the world reads your company’s name in the headlines?

You trained your crews for storms. But did you train them for silence, static, and a frozen helm? One crew. One click. One breach. That’s all it takes. Because the next Mayday won’t come over VHF. It’ll come from a dead console and a vessel veering off course. The global cost of cybercrime will hit $10.5 trillion per year by 2025. And in maritime? The average cyberattack already costs over $3.1 million.

Culture doesn’t crash ships. But it can’t stop the ones who will. So ask yourself - who’s really steering your ship… when the screens go dark?

⚔️St. George's Caye Day: Honoring Belize's Resilience

September 10

On September 10th, Belizeans across the nation will celebrate St. George’s Caye Day, a holiday that honors a defining moment in our history. This day commemorates the Battle of St. George’s Caye in 1798, when the combined efforts of the enslaved, the Baymen, and British soldiers successfully defended Belize against the Spanish.

St. George’s Caye Day is more than a historical event—it is a celebration of resilience, unity, and national pride. Across the country, official ceremonies and parades will take place, bringing communities together to reflect on the courage and sacrifices of those who stood for Belize’s future.

The days leading up to September 10th will also be filled with lively traditions such as carnivals, sporting events, fire engine parades, and pop concerts, adding excitement and joy to the patriotic season.

At Big Creek Group, we recognize the significance of this milestone in our history. Just as Belizeans of the past worked together to defend our land, we remain committed to working side by side in unity, perseverance, and dedication to building a stronger future for our nation.

🍻 Interesting Traditions: National Beer Lover's Day

September 7

Did you know that every year on September 7th, beer enthusiasts across the world celebrate National Beer Lover’s Day? This fun tradition pays tribute to one of the world’s oldest and most widely consumed beverages, dating back thousands of years to ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia and Egypt.

Beer has not only been a refreshing drink but has also played an important role in culture, celebrations, and even history. Today, it continues to bring people together, whether at a local pub, during sporting events, or at backyard barbecues.

Ways People Celebrate National Beer Lover’s Day:

Tasting Events – Breweries and pubs often host special tastings to highlight different beer styles.
Pairing with Food – Many celebrate by exploring how different beers complement meals, from rich stouts with desserts to crisp lagers with seafood.
Sharing Stories – Friends and families often gather to share their favorite brews and memories.
Exploring Local Flavors – Some take the opportunity to try craft beers from local breweries, supporting small businesses.

While beer may be the star of the day, the tradition is less about the drink itself and more about the camaraderie, laughter, and connections that come with raising a glass together.

So, whether you’re a casual sipper or a true connoisseur, National Beer Lover’s Day is a great excuse to toast to good company and good times!