Cisca Nurfi’aini
About yourself
I am the Operations Manager at Wildlife Rescue Centre Jogja. Join since 2018, my role starts from handling administrative tasks, conservation education, managing foreign volunteers and school groups activities, to promoting our activities through exhibitions, website development, and social media management.
We focused our work on Critically Endangered Malayan Giant Turtle (Orlitia borneensis). Recognizing its critical status in the wild and its successful breeding at our site, we initiated efforts to contribute to its population by planning to release juvenile turtles into their habitat.
What inspired you to start working in the field of conservation?
Since I was a child, I loved watching National Geographic and reading the magazines. And by chance, during my first job interview at my current workplace, I heard the beautiful calls of gibbons, which made me fall in love with the natural surroundings. The opportunity to work here has fuelled my enthusiasm to learn more about conservation.
Seeing wild animals up close, observing the behaviour, and helping to prepare them for release back into the wild, participating in caring for small creatures from hatching, show their natural behaviour, convinced me that this work is both rewarding and challenging. It feels like the perfect fit for my adventurous spirit. My passion for nature, wildlife, and travel only adds to my dedication to conservation. From organizing schedules to hands-on fieldwork, every task brings joy.
What are some of the rewards and challenges working in conservation?
Being able to release these animals back into the wild, seeing them roam freely as if saying 'thank you', is invaluable. The challenges are many, especially in Indonesia where awareness of wildlife conservation is still low. Many people are unaware of the importance of protecting wildlife and allowing them to thrive in their natural habitats. However, I have learned that not everyone shares the same mindset. We strive to raise awareness, starting with small community, family, and friends, then expanding to larger communities. Hopefully, this can have a significant impact on environmental conservation and wildlife preservation in the future.
Why does being part of the ASAP Women in Conservation Leadership network mean to you?
Being part of this network means a lot to me. It connects me with a diverse group of passionate women across Southeast Asia who share a common goal, making a significant impact in conservation. This network feels like a supportive family, where we help and inspire each other every step of the way. I have learned personal and professional growth. Together, we are breaking barriers and creating positive change. Participating in this program has shown me the essential qualities needed for this job: dedication to the environment and grounding in personal values. This network is not just about individual growth; it is about building a legacy of female leadership in conservation and ensuring a sustainable future for our planet. Being part of this network fuels my strength and drives meaningful change.