Carlos OrtegaCarlos Ortega, a Galápagos native born on San Cristóbal Island, is a professional with over 15 years of experience in environmental management, sustainable tourism, and community development. His career has been closely linked to strengthening institutions and conserving the archipelago’s natural heritage. He began his career as a park ranger with the Galápagos National Park, where he later served as Director of the Technical Unit in San Cristóbal. In these roles, he led strategic initiatives related to the protection of emblematic species, the management of tourism activities, and interinstitutional technical coordination, establishing himself as a key figure in the responsible management of fragile natural environments. He holds a degree in Tourism Business Administration and a Diploma in Sustainable Tourism, academic credentials that support his comprehensive vision of responsible development in protected areas. As President of the Governing Council of the Special Regime of Galápagos, Carlos Ortega has taken on the challenge of advancing practical, sustainable, and participatory solutions to address the archipelago’s most pressing needs. His leadership is grounded in the conviction that Galápagos can only move forward when it advances together, fostering dialogue, cooperation, and coordination among government institutions, productive sectors, communities, and citizens.Hugo Vera SerranoA lawyer with extensive experience in public administration, productive development, and the management of policies related to Ecuador’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors. Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership positions in government institutions, promoting initiatives aimed at strengthening sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and economic development. His professional trajectory includes serving as Acting Vice Minister of Aquaculture and Fisheries, Acting Undersecretary of Fisheries Resources, and Director General of Fisheries, where he led key processes related to fisheries governance, resource management, sector planning, and regulatory oversight. He has also played an active role in the design and implementation of public policies, inter-institutional coordination, and capacity-building efforts to support the sector’s long-term development. He currently serves as District Director for Manabí at the Hydrocarbons Regulation and Control Agency (ARCH), bringing a broad perspective on public management, regulatory frameworks, and productive sector development. As the representative of the Undersecretariat of Fisheries Resources on the Board of Directors of the Galápagos Life Fund, he contributes valuable technical expertise and strategic insight to support initiatives that advance marine conservation and promote the sustainable use of fisheries resources in Galápagos.