Katia is an environmental and social development specialist based in Paramaribo, Suriname, where she has lived and worked since 1996. Belgian by origin and grew up in several African countries, she has always been drawn to work that connects people and the natural environment.

Katia’s journey with shorebird conservation began in 2024, supporting the development of Manomet’s Guianas Green Coast Conservation Plan (GGCCP), a trilateral strategy to safeguard shorebird habitats, coastal biodiversity, and local livelihoods. Since August 2026, she has served as Regional Coordinator for the three Guianas. She works closely with partners and stakeholders to support implementation, build connections, and foster a shared vision for the Guianas coast, with a particular focus on trust, dialogue, and inclusion.

Katia holds an MSc in tropical agricultural engineering, specializing in rural development in low- and middle-income countries, from Ghent University in Belgium.

Her work brings together experience in conservation, community engagement, communication, and project management. She values listening to different perspectives and finding practical ways to connect conservation goals with local knowledge, livelihoods, and cultural practices.