Interests and expertise
I conduct interdisciplinary research at the nexus of climate change, biodiversity, and wellbeing, with a focus on nature-based solutions (NbS) in tropical ecosystems of Southeast Asia – particularly in the Philippines, where I am from. To complement my NbS expertise, I am deeply interested in regenerative paradigms, diverse cultural perspectives and emerging technologies to galvanise community action and address societal challenges.
Through my research and public engagement, I seek to catalyse increased deeper awareness and connection as pathways for transformative systemic change. Practically, this involves developing research-based tools that enhance public understanding, inform policy and practice, and contribute to addressing ecological and climate crises to improve collective well-being.
I am eager to collaborate and learn from others working across different fields. Please feel free to connect.
Background
With over a decade of international public and private sector experience spanning consulting, sustainability, and technology, I have led projects across Hong Kong, Philippines, Laos, Singapore, Switzerland, UK, and US. My work involves cross-sector collaboration and applying innovative solutions to environmental and development challenges. Beyond bespoke reports, this includes storytelling and outreach through conference events, workshops, and media (film and sound) to inspire action and drive change.
Previously, I led multi-stakeholder communication and capacity-strengthening initiatives on conservation, protected areas, gender, and indigenous peoples’ rights in collaboration with the Philippine Department of Environment & Natural Resources, Oceana, ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, and the German Development Agency (GIZ).
Currently, I serve as an editor for the Stockholm Environment Institute’s WeADAPT climate change platform.
I earned an MChem (Hons) in Environmental and Sustainable Chemistry from the University of Edinburgh and conducted sustainable energy research at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne. Additionally, I have received training in sustainability leadership from the Environmental Change Institute Oxford, and group facilitation from St. Ethelburga’s Centre for Reconciliation and Peace.
Public Engagement
Events & Workshops
- Organiser & speaker – NbS introduction community workshop, Tropical Academy, Surigao Del Norte, Philippines, 2024
- Plenary speaker – International Natural Resources & Environment Management Conference, Manila, Philippines, 2023
Plenary speaker – Climate and Social Disaster Resilience PACSDR Conference, Manila, Philippines, 2023 - Host – Indigenous peoples and local communities poster session, NbSI Conference, Oxford, UK, 2022
- Host – Governance working group, Asia Parks Congress, Sabah, Malaysia, 2022
Film
- Producer & Director – KATIWALA
- NbS in Action, Natural History Museum, Oxford, UK, 2024
