Serah PYAWA

Serah Pyawa is an Indigenous Papua New Guinean and Research Scholar at Lincoln University, New Zealand, pursuing a master’s in applied science under the GEF Gustavo Fonseca Scholarship 2025. Her thesis investigates the feasibility of implementing PNG’s first Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measure (OECM), exploring how this global conservation tool can be localized within customary land tenure, bigman leadership, and gendered governance systems.

With more than a decade of experience in the extractive industries, public health, and conservation, Serah has led national health programs funded by the Global Fund and USAID and pioneered PNG’s first liquid oxygen initiative. She also serves on the board of Eco Services Limited, a social enterprise fostering youth leadership in environmental stewardship.

Recognized through international leadership platforms, including the U.S. State Department Pacific Fellowship and the PNG–Australia Lowy Institute Emerging Leaders Dialogue, Serah is committed to advancing Indigenous-led, culturally grounded, and equitable pathways for biodiversity conservation in Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific.