Growing up in Indonesia, Farwiza Farhan developed a deep passion for the ocean, which led her to pursue a career in marine biology. However, as she delved deeper into her studies, she realized that simply working in the ocean was not enough; she needed to take action to protect it.
“I witnessed the ocean's ecosystem deteriorating due to overfishing and climate change,” Farhan explains. “Feeling helpless, I decided to further my education in environmental management to better address these issues.”
Her commitment to environmental protection eventually brought her back to her homeland, the Leuser Ecosystem in Sumatra, Indonesia. This region is one of the last remaining habitats for endangered species such as tigers, orangutans, elephants, and the Sumatran rhinoceros. It also hosts over 300 bird species, including eight that are unique to the area.
“When I first saw the Leuser Ecosystem from the air, it was breathtaking—a vast, uninterrupted expanse of lush, diverse vegetation extending across hills and valleys. The Leuser is truly a unique and majestic landscape,” she recalls.
Her first encounter with an orangutan in the Leuser Ecosystem further deepened her connection to the area. “Watching a baby orangutan swing playfully from the branches while its mother observed us was a profoundly moving experience.”
Over time, Farhan's experiences with the wildlife and the ecosystem fueled her determination to protect this biodiversity. She initially worked for a government agency dedicated to conservation. However, after the agency was dismantled due to political shifts, Farhan founded the HAkA Foundation.
“The mission of HAkA is to safeguard, conserve, and restore the Leuser Ecosystem while promoting sustainable economic growth for the region,” she says.
“Wild places and forests like the Leuser are incredibly valuable natural assets that provide essential life-sustaining services,” Farhan adds. “Just as blood flows through our veins, the rivers of the Leuser are crucial for our survival. Can anyone live without water?”
The HAkA Foundation has made significant strides in protecting the region. The organization has been instrumental in enforcing laws against palm oil companies that destroy forests, leading to a landmark court decision that fined one company nearly $26 million. HAkA has also successfully opposed infrastructure projects that threatened crucial habitats for Sumatran elephants and rhinos, and supported communities in developing sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, they have trained hundreds of police and government rangers, including establishing the first female ranger teams in the region.
“We have empowered local villages to create regulations for river and land protection, giving communities control over their environment,” Farhan notes.
This year, Farhan is recognized as one of Tory Burch's Empowered Women. The grant she receives will support the Ecosystem Impact Foundation, a local organization dedicated to protecting the critically endangered leatherback turtle on the west coast of Sumatra.
“The funds will help keep rangers employed and continue their vital work in preserving the islands, endangered birds, and sea turtle habitats,” Farhan says.
To learn more about Tory Burch and Upworthy's Empowered Women program, visit Tory Burch Empowered Women. If you know an inspiring woman like Farwiza, consider nominating her today!