Advisory Panel

Rina holds a Master of Sciences in Geo-Informatics from the Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Since her early career with Indonesia’s National Institute of Aeronautics and Space (LAPAN), during which she monitored forest fires, Rina has developed a strong commitment towards the protection of forests and biodiversity in Indonesia. For the last two decades, Rina has worked with several national and international agencies, including UN, on developing geo-spatial modelling and analysis in support of nature conservation. Rina has in-depth expertise regarding northern Sumatra, where she has been working since 2005 using a wide variety of GIS approaches, including geospatial conservation opportunity assessments, participatory land use planning, and monitoring changes in land use and cover – all leading to improved conservation decision-making.

“For SOS Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are an integral part of orangutan conservation, and the application of spatial data, analysis, and modelling, allows us to identify and prioritise key areas for orangutan conservation, as well as monitor whether our approaches on the ground achieve the required successes to safeguard orangutans and their habitat.”

With a passion for cultivating talent and fostering thriving workplaces, Rahma brings over ten years of dynamic HR experience to the table. Armed with a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Indonesia, she’s built a robust career encompassing talent management, HR consulting, and organizational development. Rahma’s commitment to continuous growth is reflected in her certifications as a Professional Coach and Human Resources Professional, enabling her to offer holistic solutions for individuals and organizations alike.

A passionate Information Technology expert with over 18 years of experience in digital enablement, specializing in the delivery of information systems and data management solutions. Oktaviar Rahmat is dedicated to providing solutions in data collection, management, validation, analysis, and visualization

Ni’am has been engaged in research and project implementation in northern Sumatra for more than six years, focusing on indigenous peoples, human-nature relationships, and nature conservation. He combines a solid foundation in social science theories with practical and anthropological approaches to development and conservation practices. His dedication to community-led conservation supports the development of more participatory, rights-based initiatives by the Sumatran Orangutan Society (SOS) and its frontline partners.

Masrizal Saraan is a renowned environmental leader and Executive Director of Yayasan Pesona Tropis Alam Indonesia (PETAI), a leading NGO in North Sumatra dedicated to conservation, community empowerment, and sustainable forest management. With a Master’s in Environmental and Natural Resources Management and as a Ph.D. candidate at North Sumatra University, he blends academic expertise with over 20 years of field experience.

He has held key roles, including Senior Program Manager at the Orangutan Information Center (2012–2016), Program Manager at Yayasan Ekosistem Lestari (2009–2011), and Chief Facilitator for Sumatra in Indonesia’s REDD+ National Strategy under UN-REDD (2010), showcasing his expertise in climate change mitigation and multi-stakeholder facilitation. In 2021-2024, He was assigned as Head of the Accelerated Access Division in the North Sumatra Social Forestry Working Group, Masrizal has championed community access to forest management rights.

Globally recognized, he represented Indonesia at the 2016 International World Ranger Congress where he shared insights on Community-Based Forest Patrol initiatives and was named one of Asia’s Wildlife Heroes by WWF-EFN. Through his leadership, PETAI has become a social forestry leader, promoting sustainable practices that benefit communities and ecosystems alike.

Juang Solala Laiya, an insightful visual storyteller, holds a master’s degree in Visual
Communication Design with a unique focus on Visual Narratives from the respected Jakarta
Institute of Arts, Indonesia. With a 15-year background as an Art Director in diverse creative
fields, Juang has worked in graphic design studios, advertising agencies, and digital
communication agencies. In recent years, he has left the industry to reside on a remote
island off the West Coast of North Sumatra, dedicating his time to community empowerment
and environmental conservation. Among his endeavors are organizing formal education for
remote communities, championing indigenous people, and promoting regenerative
agriculture and food security initiatives. Currently pursuing a doctorate in Development
Studies, Juang concentrates on critically analyzing the development narrative in Indonesia
and its implications for the well-being of indigenous communities. His commitment to
creating a better world by blending creativity, knowledge, and a passion for social and
environmental justice, exemplifies his genuine desire to promote positive change.

“Storytelling ignites the spark of awareness that fuels the fire of action for social and
environmental justice.”