Eclectic Aspirations announced the successful international premiere of WEALTH UNTOLD, a new documentary that follows a multigenerational network of women leaders working to protect Belize’s world-renowned barrier reef from environmental threats that put the livelihoods of coastal communities at risk.
More than a story of environmental crisis, WEALTH UNTOLD is a powerful portrait of resilience, ingenuity, and inspiration. The film is set in Belize and explores challenges faced by the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sustains over half the country’s population through fishing, tourism, and cultural identity.
Produced over four years by a dedicated team of independent filmmakers and ocean advocates, WEALTH UNTOLD offers an intimate look at efforts to protect marine ecosystems while balancing economic development. It stands as a beacon of hope for coastal communities worldwide and a testament to the powerful role of women in shaping a sustainable future.
The international premiere of WEALTH UNTOLD took place on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at the #ForCoral Pavilion within the Palais des Expositions in Nice, France, during the third United Nations Ocean Conference. The event was co-organized by Healthy Reefs for Healthy People and the International Coral Reef Initiative, and marked the first time the film screened outside Belize since its world premiere at the 2024 Belize International Film Festival and nationwide television broadcast.
The #ForCoral Pavilion served as a platform to spotlight bold action and amplify awareness of the vital role healthy coral reefs play in sustaining ocean and planetary health. Organised by the International Coral Reef Initiative, the pavilion was supported by the General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS), the Bloomberg Ocean Initiative, the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), and the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR).
WEALTH UNTOLD was screened in person to a distinguished audience that included film participant Dr. Melanie McField, advisor Mary Ann Beyster, producer Philip Karp, and director/producer Eladio Arvelo. Approximately 30 attendees joined the screening, which was followed by an engaging panel discussion. Audience members shared thoughtful reflections and asked insightful follow-up questions. The feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing interest in the film’s distribution plans and potential for broader outreach.
In addition to traditional distribution through film festivals, television broadcasts, and future streaming availability, WEALTH UNTOLD aims to engage global audiences through grassroots partnerships with aligned organisations, academic institutions, and related conferences. Please contact Eclectic Aspirations to request a screening or learn how your organisation can leverage this inspiring film on women-led marine conservation efforts.
Photo credit: Eclectic Aspirations, https://eclecticaspirations.com
Source: Press release
