Dominic Oviedo Löwen
2025 Eco-Hero
SHIMON SCHWARZSCHILD AWARD
Dominic Oviedo Löwen
Age 15
Itauguá, Paraguay
Mymba Saite: Awakening Love for Paraguay's Wild Animals
Dominic Oviedo Löwen embodies a profound passion for the natural world, channeled into his impactful "Mymba Saite" (Wild Animals) project in Paraguay. What began during the COVID-19 pandemic as a personal quest for local bird information—a surprising void in his native Guaraní language—has blossomed into a far-reaching initiative to document, share, and protect his country's rich biodiversity.
Dominic's journey started with self-initiated research and photography, meticulously compiling his observations into a personal bird guide. This dedication led to the publication of two books, "Birds of Volendam" (1000 copies distributed) and the more comprehensive "Fauna of Volendam" (500 copies distributed), sponsored by the local Cooperativa Volendam. These books not only bridge an information gap but also foster a sense of shared identity and connection among scattered Mennonite communities. As Dominic eloquently states, "No se puede proteger lo que no se ama" (You can't protect what you don't love), a guiding principle for his work.
His outreach extends far beyond publishing. Dominic actively shares his discoveries on social media (Instagram, Facebook with over 2,000 combined followers), gives engaging talks to over 500 people, and guides numerous birdwatching outings, transforming passive observers into active admirers of nature. In a testament to his influence, his evidence of local fauna was instrumental in having Patiño Hill, a vital green space, declared a natural heritage of Itauguá city by local authorities—a powerful act of environmental justice stemming from his personal advocacy.
Dominic's project has become a family endeavor, with "Mymba Saite" now serving as the identity for their group dedicated to lectures and outings focused on native Paraguayan animals. He also coordinates a group of children for "Pajareritos Argentinos y de América" (Argentine and American Little Birders), sharing his knowledge and passion with younger generations. His mentor, Cecilia DeLarminat, highlights his "stubborn" dedication and profound belief that knowledge leads to conservation.
Looking ahead, Dominic plans to publish scientific articles on new species and previously unknown feeding behaviors, continue his vibrant social media presence, and author more books, ensuring that his love for nature continues to spread "one observation at a time, one conversation at a time." His genuine, unwavering commitment, even in the face of the tedious research process, truly sets him apart as a remarkable young eco-hero.
