We are thrilled to announce Sue Phillips as a new Patron for Borneo Nature Foundation (BNF). Sue has spent over three decades in international media and public affairs across different countries in the United States, Europe and Middle East, which includes her career in Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and strategic position as the Founding Director of Al Jazeera London where she played an integral part to the creation of the channel.
Recently, Sue attended the London Illegal Wildlife Trade on 11-12 October 2018 as a representative for BNF. “BNF really understands the human wildlife conflict in Borneo as well as the importance in protecting peatlands. The organization is collaborative and works hard to sustain partnerships with communities, industry and government stakeholders that is crucial to the very survival of endangered creatures and land” said Sue.
Together with Tira Shubart (freelance journalist), Sue came to Borneo in June to lead a Conservation Journalism Workshop, hosted by BNF, to bring together Indonesian journalists, NGOs, universities and government representatives to strengthen the representation and the portrayal of wildlife and conservation issues through Indonesian press and media. During the workshop, Sue also emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration between NGOs, journalists, and the global media connection for getting stories out to the world.
Being fascinated with primates, Sue has a special interest in orangutans, Borneo’s charismatic red ape. She had an unforgettable first encounter with orangutans when she was on the trip to one of the natural wonders in Central Kalimantan, Tanjung Puting National Park. This has driven her to step into the conservation of endangered animals by being a voice for threatened species in the global media while also delivering training for journalists and NGOs across the globe to effectively use the media in protecting wildlife and their habitats.
“BNF is special in many ways and different to other NGOs. The hugely important research that is carried in Sebangau on orangutans and other wildlife is so critical to their survival in these desperate times” Sue added.
We also welcomed Sue to one of BNF’s research sites in Sebangau on the last day of the Conservation Journalism Workshop where she learnt about the work carried out by the BNF team.
“I had the good fortune to visit the research centre in Sebangau and witness firsthand the incredible dedication and determination of researchers and scientists collating crucial and fascinating data” she explained.
As our Patron, Sue will represent BNF at events to network and provide additional support to BNF, which is vital to increase our public profile. She will also assist BNF to expand global media links by connecting us through international media and enhance our press relations. By doing so, we hope to boost our audiences and inform more people around the world about BNF and the reason why everyone should care and do their best to safeguard the future of our environment.
Welcome on board Sue!
