Our Leadership Team

Don Listwin is the visionary behind Belize Kids. With a distinguished career in technology, including a decade at Cisco Systems and leadership in building the mobile internet at Openwave, Don has always been at the forefront of innovation. In 2004, he shifted his focus to philanthropy, founding the Canary Foundation, the world's largest research initiative for early cancer detection.

An avid scuba diver, Don and his wife fell in love with Ambergris Caye, where they now live part-time. Over the years, they have invested deeply in the island's children by building and refurbishing schools and parks. In founding Belize Kids, Don sought to partner more closely with local businesses to meet the needs of the community's youngest members. His leadership is driven by a passion for creating lasting, positive change.

Hilary Valentine brings a unique blend of design expertise and philanthropic leadership to Belize Kids. As a partner at Black & White Design, she has a keen eye for creating impactful solutions. Hilary's dedication to education and children's welfare is evident in her extensive board leadership, including serving as Chair of the Board of Directors for Room to Read from 2008 to 2010 and now as Emeritus Board Chair.

She also serves on the boards of the Valentine Family Foundation and the Canary Foundation. With a BS in Psychology from St. Lawrence University, Hilary's work is guided by a deep understanding of human needs and a commitment to fostering growth and opportunity for children around the world.

Rebecca Coutant's journey to Belize began after a successful career as a bond trader at Lehman Brothers in New York. At 32, she visited Ambergris Caye and was captivated by the island and its people. Now a full-time resident of 16 years, Rebecca has immersed herself in the community, managing a popular bar and restaurant before launching Belize's most widely read independent blog, SanPedroScoop.com.

Through her writing, she explores the island's hidden gems and champions local causes. Her deep connection to the people of Ambergris Caye and her passion for storytelling make her an invaluable leader in driving Belize Kids' mission forward.

With over 20 years of experience in Belize's diving industry, Gil Nunez is a true steward of the island's natural beauty and its people. Starting as a boat-hand at age 13, Gil quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a NAUI and PADI instructor by 1999. His expertise in diving instruction is unmatched, and he now manages Canary Cove and Poseidon Diving Adventures, where he specializes in private charters.

As treasurer, Gil brings not only his financial acumen but also his deep ties to the local community, ensuring that Belize Kids' resources are used effectively to benefit the children of Ambergris Caye.

Jeff Spiegel's path to Belize was as unique as his contributions to the island. After a decade running a successful independent record label in San Francisco, Jeff moved to Ambergris Caye 14 years ago and opened Azul Resort & Rojo Lounge, where he served as executive chef for 10 years. Now, he is developing a remote fly-fishing camp on the island's northern leeward side.

Jeff's entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and deep understanding of the local tourism industry make him a dynamic leader for Belize Kids, where he channels his passion for the island into creating opportunities for its children.

Mark Evans brings 40 years of experience in advertising, marketing, sales, and business analytics to the Belize Kids board. As a co-founder of an advertising agency and a former executive at tech giants like Netscape, eBay, and Google, Mark has a proven track record of driving strategic growth.

His expertise in marketing and business development is invaluable to Belize Kids as the organization expands its reach and impact. Mark's commitment to using his skills for social good ensures that Belize Kids remains focused on its mission while operating with transparency and efficiency.