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.
Kevin Coomer
OPERATIONS AND STRATEGY MANAGER
Kevin brings extensive operations and partnership expertise to drive organizational excellence at Orchids for Peace. He implements the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) framework to establish clear team objectives and accountability structures that advance our conservation mission. Kevin leads technology infrastructure development by researching and managing integrated systems including Google Workspace, CRM platforms, email marketing solutions, and AI tools to optimize organizational efficiency.
Kevin also researches marketing strategies and serves as the team's problem-solver, taking on critical projects that support our goal of creating 1,000 orchid sanctuaries while fostering sustainable environmental stewardship through community collaboration.
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.
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.
David Cadavid
COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY SCIENCE
David Emilio Cadavid is a local orchid researcher and conservationist based in Riosucio, Caldas. Working from the cloud forests of the western Colombian Andes, he documents miniature orchids – especially Lepanthes – and has collaborated in the description of new species from the region. His work bridges field research, in-vitro cultivation and community projects that turn scientific knowledge into shared tools for conservation, territorial identity and peace-building among rural communities and local organizations.
Sergio Alarcon
COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY SCIENCE
As Community Outreach and Citizen Science Coordinator at Orchids for Peace, he brings fifteen years of practical experience in beekeeping and meliponiculture, along with six years of self-taught expertise in orchid study, cultivation, and conservation. His work in Riosucio, Caldas, integrating native bees, orchids, and local environmental stewardship, reflects his deep commitment to community-led conservation. He now supports OFP in engaging local partners, strengthening citizen science initiatives, and fostering meaningful connections between people and the ecosystems they inhabit.
OFP Podcast
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