Francisco Blaha has been immersed in the fisheries sector since his teenage years, beginning as a deckhand and progressing to a globally recognized specialist adviser. With experience spanning over 50 countries, he has worked with international development organizations, governments, and the FAO as a Fishery Officer. Holding MSc degrees in fisheries and food science, as well as a Rhodes Ocean Scholar diploma in the Law of the Sea, Francisco brings a multidisciplinary approach to his work. His expertise covers EU Market Access Requirements, MCS integration, Port State Measures, Catch Documentation Schemes, and Marine Domain Awareness tools. Increasingly, he is also engaged in fishers’ labor rights, both in practice and research. A dynamic force in fisheries governance and sustainability, Francisco works fluently in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Fisheries Advisor

Manuel Castiano has been at the forefront of fisheries law and policy since 2000, when he joined Mozambique’s former Ministry of Fisheries as a Legal Officer. Rising through the ranks, he served as Chief Manager, Deputy Director, and Director of Law Enforcement, shaping national fisheries governance. His expertise extends to international fisheries management, having coordinated regional projects for WWF and served as Policy Officer for Africa and Regional Coordinator for the Southwest Indian Ocean Sustainable Fisheries Program. Currently, Manuel lectures and advises at the University of Science and Technology of Mozambique, focusing on natural resource management and fisheries monitoring, control, and surveillance. A respected legal expert with a Doctorate in Law, he brings deep insight to fisheries governance and policy. Manuel works in English and Portuguese.

Legal Expert

Camille Welter is a trained natural scientist specializing in freshwater ecology and zoology. After graduating, he collaborated with the University of Innsbruck on water quality analysis in the glacier regions of the European Alps. In the mid-1990s, Camille shifted his focus to computer science, gradually building expertise in IT. Today, he advises individuals and companies on designing and implementing IT networks of all sizes and developing websites—such as Diatom’s own. Camille combines his scientific background with a deep understanding of technology, bringing a unique perspective to IT solutions that support environmental and organizational goals. His ability to bridge the gap between ecology and technology has made him a key asset to the team.

IT Specialist

Charles has dedicated his life to photography, drawn to its ability to capture fleeting moments and tell compelling stories. His craft has always been guided by curiosity, creativity – and a deep appreciation for technological innovation. As a photographer for the Photothèque of the City of Luxembourg, he spent decades documenting the vibrant pulse of urban life. Now, as a founding member of Diatom, Charles brings a fresh perspective—one that reminds us that meaningful work is not just about data and analysis but also about vision, inspiration, and human connection. He champions the idea that creativity and contemplation are essential to problem-solving, ensuring that our approach remains as thoughtful as it is effective.

Photographer

Peter began his career as a Naval Officer in 1966 before moving into fisheries regulation and compliance with the Canadian Department of Fisheries. In 1989, he transitioned to international fisheries development, leading complex projects across the Caribbean. His trailblazing work culminated in 1994 with FAO TP 338—Introduction to Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance Systems for Capture Fisheries—establishing him as a pioneer in modern fisheries law enforcement. Over the years, Peter held key compliance and advisory roles with WCPFC in Honiara, NPFC in Tokyo, and the Mozambican Ministry of Fisheries. A brilliant professional, a mentor, and a guiding force, Peter left an indelible mark on the field. Though he passed away in 2023, his vision and dedication continue to inspire us. As a founding member of Diatom, his spirit remains a part of our journey.

Founding Member