Frustrated by the limited options available for those pursuing careers in biology and ecology, she recognized the need for a platform that could help others in her position therefore starting Conservation Opportunity; a nonprofit organization aimed at supporting individuals interested in conservation careers, focusing on providing those opportunities in Puerto Rico.

Fabiola’s vision was to create a space where people could easily find resources and guidance in the field – job postings, internships and grant opportunities. Over time, the organization expanded to include workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and office hours to help individuals enhance their skills and increase their competitiveness in the job market. A key aspect of the organization’s growth was its emphasis on leadership development, as Fabiola sought to foster a sense of community and teamwork among those involved.

Currently, Fabiola’s organization is actively supported by Hispanic Access Foundation’s Community Navigator program. The program connects Latino-serving organizations to climate resilience grant funding and capacity-building resources. Through the program's Cultivando Side-by-Side cohort, nonprofit leaders receive training and mentorship on essential skills like grant writing and administrative management. With the support she received from the program, Fabiola’s organization achieved a significant breakthrough and secured a $50,000 federal grant from the U.S. Forest Service’s State, Private and Tribal Forestry Program to support a forest health project—an achievement that marked a new chapter for the nonprofit.

The grant not only provided much-needed financial resources, but also allowed Fabiola to hire a full-time staff member for the first time. The grant will help Conservation Opportunity create a pilot program to develop a forest health-monitoring app and replicate the process throughout the island

“I'm just grateful for Hispanic Access. I'm grateful for the Community Navigator program, for providing us with this guidance to secure our first big grant. In the long-term, we've always visualized Conservation Opportunity being an organization that can also have interns and paid staff in different areas. I would love to pay my team to continue doing the amazing things that many of them have done for three years voluntarily.”

Fabiola’s story is one of determination, resilience, and a deep passion for the environment. From her early days spent in nature to founding an organization that helps others pursue conservation careers, she has dedicated herself to protecting Puerto Rico’s natural beauty while empowering the next generation of conservation leaders. With the continued growth of Conservation Opportunity Fabiola is well on her way to realizing her vision of a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for Puerto Rico.

Hispanic Access is inspiring, training, and supporting local organizations like Conservation Opportunity, who have a stake in their community and have the drive for positive change. To help support and continue this work, please consider making a Charitable Donation