YLAI Professional Fellows Program, Class of 2016

Celesta "Lesta" Laurencin is the Founder and Chief Operations Officer of Miel, a bee rearing and honey production business in Saint Lucia. Through Miel, Lesta hopes to achieve the following: produce high quality, pure honey; contribute to the re-establishment of the honey bee population; and provide sustainable livelihoods for persons in his community of Anse La Raye. Though largely self-taught in apiculture, Lesta has completed his secondary school education at George Charles Secondary School. In his current capacity, Lesta serves as a PADI certified Dive Instructor at Ti Kaye Resort and Spa. Lesta has also secured a Boat Masters Captain license for coastal waters. Lesta's professional experience has allowed him to gain valuable knowledge of Saint Lucia's marine environment, biodiversity, and environmental issues. With his experience, Lesta is well poised to establish a sustainable and successful apiculture business.