Grants and Communications Lead

Ashwarya has a strong academic foundation and practical experience in environmental sustainability, grant development, communications, project management and education. She holds a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Biology and Chemistry, a Graduate Certificate in Education and a Postgraduate Diploma in Climate Change. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Climate Change, with her developing research focused on strengthening evidence-based waste-management decision-making in Fiji.

Ashwarya began her career in education before transitioning into environmental project management, building early experience through the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme. This foundation in grant management, data analysis, monitoring and reporting has since developed into broader work across project development, resource mobilisation, communications and environmental partnerships.

In her current role, Ashwarya leads grant and resource-mobilisation efforts, coordinates communications initiatives and supports the development of strategic partnerships. Her work spans waste management, circular-economy solutions, regional collaboration and community-focused programmes across Fiji and the wider Pacific.

Ashwarya is passionate about environmental sustainability and social justice, particularly environmental protection and advancing the rights of marginalised and vulnerable communities. Through her work, she strives to develop meaningful initiatives that strengthen community resilience and empower those most affected by environmental challenges.