Farwiza Farhan

Indonesian conservationist fighting illegal logging and protecting marine biodiversity.

Farwiza Farhan is an Indonesian environmental activist and founder of Yayasan Pesisir Lestari (Coastal Heritage Foundation), working to protect marine ecosystems in Wakatobi National Park. Born to a fishing family in Southeast Sulawesi, Farhan witnessed coral reef destruction from overfishing and illegal logging. In 2008, she pioneered the Community Marine Patrol, training local fishers to monitor illegal activities. This initiative led to a 70% reduction in destructive fishing practices in protected zones by 2020. Farhan's advocacy secured Indonesia's first logging ban in Wakatobi in 2021, preserving 1.4 million hectares of mangrove forests. Her work has been featured in National Geographic and the documentary "Defenders of Wakatobi". Farhan also co-founded the Save Our Seas Network, uniting 50 coastal communities across Indonesia. Her 2022 TED Talk highlighted the economic value of coral reefs, inspiring eco-tourism projects that now employ 2,000 locals. Farhan's innovations include mangrove replanting programs that sequester 10x more carbon than tropical forests. She was awarded the 2023 Global Environmental Leadership Prize for her holistic approach combining conservation with community welfare. Her organization's Eco-School Program has educated 15,000 students on marine stewardship, ensuring long-term sustainability.