EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Executive Director and Co-Founder of YAPPENDA was born, raised, and resides in Papua, providing him with an intimate understanding of the challenges faced by indigenous communities. His proficiency in English, Bahasa Indonesia, Melayu-Papua, and Bahasa Yali (a highland Papuan language) enables effective communication with diverse stakeholders, bridging cultural and language barriers. With over 19 years of conservation experience, Iain’s background includes working with organizations such as the Clinton Foundation and the Green Economic Growth Program for Papua Provinces.

FINANCE MANAGER

Dwi is the finance and business manager at YAPPENDA. She brings a strong educational background and work experience to the team. Dwi is a versatile and innovative mind, who is adept at managing finances and identifying and implementing solutions for our programs administration.

Dwi has a Bachelors degree in social welfare science and a Masters degree in sociology from University Cenderwasih.

She has previously worked in the finance department Staf Keuangan • Universitas Cenderawasih, Papua

And she was a Supervisor at Program Keluarga Harapan Kab. Jayapura • Kementerian Sosial RI, DKI JAKARTA

Malcolm Kobak, a Papuan born conservation pioneer, co-founded YAPPENDA in January 2022 Channelling his intimate knowledge of the Papuan Highlands, Malcolm's mission is to protect the regions biodiversity and indigenous heritage, Having been born and raised among the Yall, Malcolm experienced a childhood steeped in the cultural tradition of the Yali. He has 25 years of exemplary service in Canadian Low enforcement working for Peel Regional Police, Durham Regional Police and The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, In 2020 he received The Police Exemplary Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada,

Malcolm also volunteers on the board of directors for The Scott Mission in Toronto, Canada,

GOVERNMENT LIAISON & FORESTRY PROGRAM MANAGER

Domi has over 25 years of experience in agroforestry including coffee and cacao. He has worked all across Papua in rugged and remote locations. In his spare time, he volunteers to help his local community develop coffee and cacao. He has also worked with an HIV/AIDS-focused NGO and other social development programs in leadership roles. His extensive experience and networks are invaluable to our team.

TREE NURSERY SUPERVISOR and EDUCATION/TRAINING TEAM LEADER

Jack has a degree in agriculture from the Universitas Negeri Cendrawasih (UNCEN) and has over 30 years of experience in conservation, agroforestry, and sustainable development working with organizations including BP Tangguh Bintuni Bay LNG Project as a community relations supervisor, and various other international NGOs. In addition to his work with YAPPENDA, he also lectures at STAKIN (a Sentani-based seminary) on topics related to conservation and sustainable development.

LOGISTICS

Asra joined our team after working with the Indonesia Green Growth Program. He is a versatile problem solver with a strong passion for the environment and community development. Asra brings a wealth of experience in sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, making significant contributions to our projects. His dedication to both environmental conservation and empowering local communities exemplifies the core values of YAPPENDA.

MEDIA COORDINATOR

Gusti is an artist and photographer who is passionate about Papua and conservation. He has extensive experience as an independent journalist and has worked previously as the photographer for LSM Economy Hijau Papua dan Papua Barat (“Green Economy Papua NGO).

In addition to media work, Gusti has been helping to lead a new mangrove reforestation initiative, demonstrating his commitment and versatility.

CONSERVATION CONSULTANT

Pieter has a formal education from Cenderawasih University, Papua. Pieter has been active as an environmental activist in Papua and West Papua Provinces for the last 20 years in the field of marine and land conservation. Building cooperation with the government, legislative institutions, cultural institutions, and universities, as well as development partners. He likes traveling, photography, music and traditional arts as well as gardening in his yard.

Education and Youth Outreach

Jeff is a university student who was an integral member of our successful Cyclops Expedition. Jeff was absolutely integral to the rediscovery of Attenborough’s echidna and is lead author of the subsequent paper related to this rediscovery. In addition to his ongoing studies and research, he has developed an outreach program delivering conservation-focused education to communities in our project areas.

REFORESTATION SUPERVISOR

Yali is a graduate of JMC Academy with a degree in audio engineering. He organizes and leads our reforestation work. He oversees and participates in activities on the ground, managing the setting up of nurseries, planting sites and tracking project activities.

Liaison Officer

Yanni began his relationship with YAPPENDA as a board member. However, as he became so deeply involved as a board member we realized there was a role for him as a full time member of our team. He is an excellent communicator who has helped to maintain and develop mutually beneficial relationships, with government agencies, other NGO’s and academic institutions.

REFORESTATION SUPERVISOR (highlands)

Das is a university student in his last year of an environmental sciences degree. He maintains and runs our nursery in the highlands town of Wamena. He also has overseen the development of a new reforestation site and nursery in partnership with an indigenous community called Alogonik, in the Baliem Valley .

Mia is a graduate of Cenderawasih University with a degree in Geophysical Engineering. She works as a GIS analyst to integrate biophysical, ecological and socio-economic data to support YAPPENDA in activities that include mapping of project sites, monitoring erosion and deforestation, and developing data to support project planning and management.

Attixs Kobak is a proud indigenous Papuan dedicated to preserving the rich natural heritage of his homeland. Born and raised in Holuwon, Attixs pursued his early education in Holuwon and Wamena before earning his S-1 degree from STIKOM University in Jayapura. Choosing to return to his roots, he now resides in Holuwon, where he leads conservation efforts and empowers the next generation of Papuans.

As a leader embodying YAPPENDA’s values, Attixs not only works to protect Papua’s biodiversity but also teaches local children about the importance of environmental stewardship. Through hands-on education, he inspires them to safeguard their forests and wildlife, ensuring that their home remains vibrant and beautiful for generations to come. His commitment to both conservation and community education exemplifies the power of being educated, serving, and giving back—a true model for the future of Papua.