I recently had the opportunity to illustrate a new children’s book titled How Taiga Became Faiya Taiga, written by Gail Lash. The story introduces young readers to Taiga, a curious black jaguar who embarks on a journey to become Faiya Taiga—an ambassador between fire and humanity.

The book was created to help Belizean children understand the importance of fire safety. Faiya Taiga is envisioned as a mascot children can connect with, and a character who will continue to appear in future stories.

The timing of her arrival feels especially meaningful. Just last year, Belize experienced one of its most severe fire seasons on record, with thousands of acres of forest lost to bushfires. Against that backdrop, the message of Faiya Taiga is both urgent and timely.

For now, the book is available in a limited print run. The goal, however, is to place copies in bookstores, libraries, and schools across Belize later this year. Hopefully, it’s the beginning of something that will have a lasting impact.