THE FACES
BEHIND THE WORK
At Orchids for Peace (OFP), we protect endangered orchid species across the Neotropics, focusing on those in rapidly shrinking habitats. We combat deforestation, habitat loss, and illegal trade by combining cutting-edge research with community-driven conservation.
We believe in the power of orchids as symbols of peace, balance, and biodiversity. By inspiring and empowering communities to conserve these unique plant species and their ecosystems, we encourage the thoughtful stewardship of natural resources. This approach helps people protect their environment while enhancing their mental well-being.
Partnering with private collectors, we transform their knowledge into sustainable solutions, empowering local communities to preserve orchids through legal cultivation. Together, we aim to conserve these beautiful species and the vital Andean ecosystems they call home.
We are a recognized institution by MinCiencias Colombia, as part of the Science, Technology, & Innovation Research Groups, and as a Research Group on Evolution & Systematics and the Conservation of Neotropical Epiphytic Orchids (B).
Dr. Tatiana Arias
EXECUTIVE AND SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR
With over 15 years of experience in plant sciences, I bring a blend of classical training and modern methods to our team. My journey in botany began with a PhD in Biological Sciences from The University of Missouri, followed by a two-year postdoctoral fellowship at The University of Hong Kong. I have led scientific initiatives at The Center of Biological Research (CIB) and la Sociedad Colombiana de Orquideología (SCO) in Medellín, Colombia, and have taught at various universities in Colombia for seven years.
Luis Eduardo Mejia
HEAD OF CONSERVATION
Luis Eduardo is a renowned anthropologist and filmmaker with a deep passion for orchids and environmental conservation. He has led numerous NGO initiatives and conservation projects across Colombia, combining his expertise in anthropology with his love for nature. As the former Director of La Reserva Orquídeas, Luis pioneered efforts in orchid preservation, cloud forest restoration, and visual education, producing over 25 films about Colombia's tropical biodiversity. His contributions include five conservation-focused books and his ongoing work in ecosystem restoration and community education.
Juan Felipe Posada
HEAD OF HORTICULTURE AND EX-SITU CONSERVATION
Juan Felipe brings an extraordinary wealth of experience and expertise in orchid cultivation, making him an invaluable asset to the Orchids for Peace team. A true guardian of Colombia’s orchid heritage, Juan Felipe carries forward the proud tradition of leading orchidologists who dedicated themselves to the golden era of the Sociedad Colombiana de Orquideología, playing a pivotal role in shaping La Reserva Orquídeas and the renowned journal Orquideología.
Dr. Mailen Ortega
FUNDRAISING AND SERVICE MANAGER
With a strong passion for discovery and innovation, I have built a career at the intersection of microbiology and biotechnology. After earning degrees in microbiology and bioanalysis, I completed my PhD in biotechnology at the University of Antioquia. My research spans leading institutions such as AGROSAVIA, the University of Antioquia, and the Corporation for Biological Research (CIB), along with international collaborations with the French group FUNGISEM. My expertise includes microbiology, molecular biology, phytopathology, and omics sciences. At Orchids for Peace, I aim to use this knowledge to support conservation efforts, fundraising, and sustainable development of orchid biodiversity in Latin America.
Luz Adriana Garzón
STATUTORY AUDITOR AND ACCOUNTANT
Luz Adriana Garzón is bringing her expertise in financial oversight and accountability to the foundation. As the statutory auditor, she ensures that all financial operations comply with legal regulations and that the foundation maintains transparency and integrity in its financial reporting. In her role as accountant, Luz Adriana is responsible for managing the foundation’s financial records, budgeting, and financial planning, providing the essential financial structure that supports the foundation’s conservation and community-focused initiatives. Her diligent work guarantees that the foundation's resources are managed efficiently and responsibly, contributing to the long-term sustainability of OFP.
Luis Germán Olarte
REGIONAL WILDLIFE COORDINATOR - JARDIN TEAM
Luis Germán has dedicated over 40 years to bird conservation in Colombia. He is the founder of the Sociedad Antioqueña de Ornitología and has worked as a field advisor on educational projects with the ATA Foundation. With extensive experience in observing and studying Colombia’s birdlife, Luis has become a leading figure in the conservation of avian species. His lifelong passion for nature and commitment to protecting Colombia’s biodiversity make him a key asset in driving OFP’s conservation initiatives forward.
Carolina Zuluaga
REGIONAL VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR FOR SCIENTIFIC AND
CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES - JARDIN TEAM
Carolina is a dedicated leader in conservation, with over a decade of experience promoting volunteer-driven conservation efforts. She holds a degree in Alternative Medical Therapy from Atlantic University, USA (2004) and completed training in transitional crop management at SENA in 2016. Since 2010, Carolina has been a passionate advocate for environmental preservation in Jardín, where she coordinates volunteers to undertake crucial conservation tasks. As the Volunteer Coordinator for Scientific and Conservation Activities at OFP, Carolina plays a key role in mobilizing and guiding volunteers to support conservation initiatives, contributing to the preservation of Colombia's biodiversity.
Maria Isabel
REGIONAL OUTREACH COORDINATOR - JARDIN TEAM
Maria Isabel is a community leader from the municipality of Jardín and a passionate advocate for conservation. As a mother and head of her family, she is also a producer of high-quality coffee in the southwest Antioquian coffee-growing region. Her leadership extends to promoting conservation efforts within her community, where she has been instrumental in fostering sustainable practices.
Mary Polania
REGIONAL HORTICULTURE COORDINATOR - CAQUETA TEAM
Mary Polania has been a driving force behind the Caquetá project, inspiring its inception and playing a pivotal role in its development. As a passionate orchid enthusiast and a respected community leader, Mary has been instrumental in building and managing our nurseries, including the largest one in the region. Her dedication extends beyond conservation; she integrates her love for orchids into her work at a local school, engaging and educating students through hands-on gardening projects. Mary’s deep commitment to the project is evident in her tireless efforts to train local communities around Caquetá and her active participation in fieldwork. Her leadership and enthusiasm are vital to the success of our conservation initiatives, making her a cornerstone of our team.
Carolina Trujillo
REGIONAL COLLECTION MANAGER - CAQUETA TEAM
A recent graduate in Biology from Universidad de la Amazonia in Florencia, Caquetá, Carolina has been an integral part of our team since 2019. She co-authored the Caquetá Orchid Checklist paper and plays a crucial role in managing collections, processing photographs, and handling data. Carolina also provides essential logistical support in the field, ensuring the smooth operation of our projects.
July Rojas Castillo
REGIONAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN - CAQUETA TEAM
As a laboratory technician in the Molecular Biology Lab at Universidad de la Amazonia, July has been an essential member of our team since 2023. Under the guidance of Professor Fausto Andrés Ortiz Morea, she specializes in DNA extractions, amplification, and bioinformatics of orchid samples from Caquetá, as well as in growing orchids in vitro from seeds. Her technical expertise and dedication significantly contribute to the success of our molecular research efforts.
Litle Oiden
REGIONAL EXPEDITIONS AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR - CAQUETA TEAM
Litle is the owner of Reserva Doña Blanca in Paujil, Caquetá, and a SENA Technical Extension Specialist. Since 2021, he has played a key role in organizing the logistics for our expeditions, using his deep local knowledge to ensure safety and foster strong coordination with the surrounding communities. His expertise has been invaluable in navigating the region and building meaningful partnerships.
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