Celebrating the Next Generation of Women Leaders in Conservation
9 December 2024
In November, we honoured the second cohort of our groundbreaking Women in Conservation Leadership Programme at an inspiring graduation event. Attended by over 60 guests—including friends, family, colleagues, and programme alumnae—the graduation was a celebration of the participants’ achievements and a showcase of the transformative journey they have taken as conservation leaders. Each graduate shared their own story, from overcoming personal and professional challenges to finding purpose and joy in the path they are on.
Delivered in collaboration with Visibility Co, the programme equips participants with essential leadership skills, and promotes wellbeing, courage and resilience to drive impactful conservation. One of the strongest elements to have emerged from the programme is the sense of community that it fosters with participants forming a close-knit network of cheerleaders, providing support and guidance to each other.
Friends, family and colleagues joined the inspirational virtual graduation event
The next chapter: Introducing the Network of Women (NOW)
During the event, we launched the new phase of the programme: the Network of Women (NOW). This initiative will continue to empower women conservationists through the 8-month NOW Leaders programme while providing alumnae with new opportunities for growth, connection, and leadership development through the NOW Collective.
The NOW Collective with enable alumnae to stay connected, share knowledge, and further enhance their skills as they advance their careers and drive impactful conservation efforts.
Participants at the 2024 programme retreat in Cambodia
Reflections from the Graduates
The graduation event highlighted the programme's impact on the participant’s personal and professional lives:
“Being part of the ASAP Women in Conservation Leadership Programme has been transformative. It has not only empowered me to embrace my leadership potential but also strengthened my ability to connect with and uplift communities in conservation efforts.” Cisca Nurfi’aini
“Joining the programme gave me the tools and confidence to lead and support my team in conservation, staying true to my leadership style and values. This programme has been a turning point for me. It’s helped me grow as a leader and inspired me to lead with purpose and work towards meaningful impact for both people and nature.” Anita Bousa
Cisca Nurfi’aini, 2024 Programme Graduate
Looking ahead
As we celebrate the achievements of this second cohort, we look forward to the continued growth of the Network of Women. With each new graduate, we are building a stronger, more inclusive conservation movement, one that recognises and elevates the vital contributions of women across Southeast Asia.
Stay tuned as we open the NOW Leaders 2025 in January and continue to support the incredible women leading the way in conservation.