David Romo - TBS Director

David Romo’s work for TBS began in June 1996 as camp administrator. Although he always wanted to work towards conservation in Yasuní, he never imagined he would have the opportunity to serve in a place and institution as USFQ/TBS. During these 25 years, most of those as codirector of the station with Kelly Swing, he had the opportunity to interact with amazing people. The most important group has been the staff from Quito and the field. This group has been like a family to him because they have shared their lives, dreams and deep love for Yasuni. Then they have all the researchers, many of which are now his personal friends, he feels very happy to know that TBS has worked to make their job easier and fruitful. Over the years, the scientific production of TBS has been unprecedented compared to similar facilities in Amazonia. He can say, without hesitation, that they made a major and critical contribution to the current knowledge of the neotropical rainforest. The next group is professors and their students and his own students. That experience is just unforgettable because he had the chance to see that wow expression, over and over again. Last, but not least, all those visitors include filmmakers, ambassadors, friends and family with whom he shared his passion for the forest and the future of Yasuni. Many inspired him to do more. Now that he has stepped down as director, a part of him is a bit sad, but the joy of the work done, and the chance to continue contributing as a researcher, returns the calm to his heart knowing that his life will be forever tied to Yasuni and TBS. David wants to also thank his wife and daughters, without whose support and sacrifice over the years (knowing that he had to be away in many important moments of their lives), he would have not been able to do all of this.