In memory of a cacao pioneer...

We were all shocked and saddened at the death of Gregor Hargrove, Green & Black's country and regional representative, based in Punta Gorda Town, in 2008.

Gregor, a Canadian national, had been working in Belize for over seven years. One of his greatest achievements while working in Belize was the strengthening of the Toledo Cacao Association after accepting a voluntary work offer in 2003.

During his years of working in the Cacao Industry in Belize, Gregor touched the lives of Toledo Cacao farmers, fighting for better prices, creating a better working environment in the industry, and nurturing and guiding young entrepreneurs and graduates become successful business individuals. He contributed to school and community functions in an effort to increase sustainability for social and economic development in the Toledo District, and was one of the founding pioneers of the first ever Toledo Cacao Fest in 2007.

All these efforts stand tall amongst many and will remain in the hearts of many cacao farmers, for he had contributed tremendously in the development of the Toledo Cacao Growers Association and the cacao industry in Belize. His outstanding hard work and dedication to the cacao farmers and T.C.G.A lasted to the last minute before his death. The many cacao farmers in Belize will sadly miss him.