In a remarkable collaboration, ad agency Ogilvy and multinational fish company Regal Springs have joined forces to transform the annual miracle of the rain of fish in Yoro, Honduras, into an economic opportunity for the local community. This extraordinary phenomenon, known as Lluvia de Peces, has captivated the town for generations, and now Heaven Fish, a new brand, aims to leverage this natural wonder to generate income for Yoro's residents.
According to legend, in the 1800s, a Catholic missionary's prayers for relief from hunger were answered when fish began falling from the sky during thunderstorms. While scientists propose water spouts as a possible explanation, the mystery surrounding this phenomenon endures, captivating both locals and experts alike.
Recognizing the potential to harness this unique event for the benefit of Yoro's inhabitants, Ogilvy and Regal Springs embarked on a plan to empower the community, many of whom live on less than $1 a day. Building on Ogilvy's track record of impactful work, including their Morning After Island campaign, the partners devised a strategy to pay residents for catching the fish during the rainstorm.
During this year's fish rain, Yoro residents eagerly ventured outside with makeshift nets made from hammocks and supermarket bags to catch the diverse array of fish, including tilapia, snapper, and bass. The fish were then taken to local Regal Springs centers for cleaning before being transported to main processing hubs, where they were sustainably packaged using locally sourced banana peels.
Branded as Heaven Fish, the product found its way to over 200 restaurant and grocery partners across Honduras, ranging from renowned chains like Mongolian Wok and TGI Fridays to upscale local eateries. The distinct origin of the fish makes it a rare and sought-after product, allowing for premium pricing.
Initially, some members of the community had reservations about commercializing this cherished event. For decades, the rain of fish has provided an opportunity for residents to enjoy seafood—a rare delicacy in a town where corn and beans are staple foods. Additionally, the event serves as the centerpiece of a yearly festival honoring the missionary, featuring a parade and carnival.
However, Edgardo Melgar, head of communications and strategy at Ogilvy Honduras, assures that the festival and communal celebrations will continue alongside the economic opportunity. As fishing contractors for Regal Springs, a quarter of Yoro's residents participated in catching the fish this year, with even more expressing interest. While not a year-round source of income, it serves as a supplemental cash flow for the community. Notably, 80% of the revenue generated by Heaven Fish directly benefits the people of Yoro.
The pricing for the fish varied based on the species, but the average payment amounted to approximately $6 per pound. Some families managed to collect 30 pounds or more, filling up small wagons. Melgar emphasizes that the amount of fish required to make a substantial impact on income is attainable, highlighting the accessible nature of this endeavor.
Through the Heaven Fish initiative, Ogilvy and Regal Springs demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and the well-being of local communities. By transforming a natural wonder into a source of income, they align their efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the vision of a global society that emphasizes equitable economic opportunities, environmental stewardship, and the empowerment of civil society.
Yoro's rain of fish has evolved into more than a miraculous spectacle—it has become a beacon of sustainability and a means of improving livelihoods in this Honduran town. The partnership between Ogilvy and Regal Springs exemplifies how innovative thinking, coupled with a deep respect for nature and community, can create tangible benefits for all. As the world strives for a sustainable future, the Heaven Fish project stands as a shining example of turning natural phenomena into opportunities for prosperity and social progress.
More information: https://www.fastcompany.com/90895929/honduras-town-rains-fish-heaven-fish-brand-income-locals