Generations of Growth: Stories from the Heart of Sol Azul and Sanctuary Oysters

At Sol Azul and Sanctuary Oysters, the ocean isn’t just our workplace, it’s part of who we are. Behind every oyster lies the care, skill, and dedication of the people who grow them. Many of our team members come from families with deep ties to this work, carrying forward values of resilience, responsibility, and pride in their craft.

We sat down with a few of our dedicated team members to learn more about what it means to be part of a generational story in aquaculture. These are their voices.

Jesús Manuel Rojas Rojas

Field Operator – Second Generation

For Jesús, oyster farming is more than a job, it’s a link to his father’s legacy. “When my dad worked here, everything was very rustic. Everything had to be done manually, no automated equipment,” he recalls. “I was still very young when he told me, ‘In the future, there will be tractors and automated screeners to carry the product from the sea to the plant.’ I thought it was just a story, something from his imagination. But now, I see it all happening. Everything he said came true.”

What sets Sol Azul apart for Jesús is the respect and care the company shows its workers. “Here, they give you everything you need to work safely. They value the effort you put in.”

His proudest moment? “Joining the company and knowing that my parents also worked here. That fills me with pride.”

Yoanca Madaí Torres Gallegos

Plant Operator – Second Generation

Yoanca’s story is one of determination and hope. As the youngest daughter in a family struggling with financial hardship, she took the first step. “I got the job and when I saw my situation improve, I brought my parents and siblings to work here too, so we could all build a better future together.”

Her favorite part of working at Sol Azul? “The support the company gives, not just to workers, but to our families as well.”

She hopes future generations will continue this legacy: “I want them to have the same dedication and responsibility, the same drive to follow their dreams.”

Ana Elizabeth Ceja Saucedo

Production Control – Second Generation

Ana’s path was deeply shaped by her mother’s hard work. “Thanks to my mom’s effort, I was able to complete my university degree and now I’m working in my field.”

One of her earliest memories is working during school breaks. “When I was in high school, I worked here on vacations. After graduation, they gave me a job aligned with my career. That was a very proud moment.”

For Ana, one key value defines the company: “Here, you don’t get opportunities just because you’re family. You have to show drive and commitment.”

Zulma Areli Flores Beltrán

Seed Nursery Technician – First Generation

Zulma started working at Sol Azul out of curiosity, but soon discovered a calling. “When I began, I was drawn in by the effort and hard work. As my daughters grew up, they joined too. I taught them what I knew, and they used their earnings to pay for school. They chose different careers, but they still love the oyster world.”

She’s proud of how Sol Azul has grown. “It’s one of the best job sources in our community, and being a leader in exports is something to be proud of. So many hands, so many generations have touched each oyster.”

Zulma takes pride in her role and the responsibility it brings. “I’ve been able to provide a better life for my children. Each experience has been a source of pride.”

Her advice to the next generation? “Take on responsibilities with a good attitude, and always work with dedication.”

A Living Legacy

These are just a few of the voices behind the oysters we grow. From parents to children, from manual labor to leadership roles, the work at Sol Azul and Sanctuary Oysters is a tapestry of progress, passion, and purpose.

Each oyster harvested carries with it a story, of family, of hard work, and of belief in a better tomorrow.