World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Singapore

Established on 29 April 1961, WWF is now one of the world’s largest and most experienced independent conservation organisations. While headquartered in Gland, Switzerland, they are present in more than 100 countries with more than 5 million supporters.

WWF-Singapore was launched in March 2006. They work with communities, businesses and the government to secure a sustainable future for Singapore with clean air, fresh water, food security and a safe climate.

In this interview, Chitra Venkatesh shares her experience working as the Head of Education of WWF-Singapore.

1. What is your role in WWF-Singapore?

I am the Head of Education, part of the Communication and Outreach Department of WWF-Singapore, and I report to the Chief, Strategic Communication and External Relations. I lead the Education and Outreach Unit. I work very closely with my colleagues in the Communications, Conservation and Corporate Relations department. We provide education and outreach services to educational institutions, businesses, community groups and the general public.

I develop and maintain a cooperative relationship with non-governmental organisations, government agencies and other partners. I also work with education teams across the world as a Global Leader for Education. I represent WWF when I work with organisations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the World Organisation of the Scout Movement (WOSM).

2. Why did you choose this role?

I had previously worked in education management for almost 15 years, but in for-profit organisations. I was looking for an opportunity to work for a non-government and non-profit organisation. I was excited about this opportunity because WWF-Singapore is a local NGO, but also part of an international network of offices. I wanted a role that enables me to work with and learn from my colleagues in Singapore and around the world.

3. What’s the most interesting event that you’ve encountered in your role?

I attended the Third Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities in Asia Pacific in January 2019. This event gathered government representatives and youth from all over Asia to make decisions on urgent environmental issues like plastic waste. I was able to lead and moderate a session with UNDP and the authors to release the publication Global Environment Outlook for Youth, Asia and the Pacific.

4. What’s the greatest difficulty that you’ve encountered in your role?

The biggest lesson I have learnt is that there is no silver bullet to most of the complex problems in the world. Different people or places have parts of the problem. The biggest challenge is to convince people and organisations that we should work together to solve the problem, especially because people are from different backgrounds. I remind myself to slow down, to listen, and to ask many questions. I always tell myself to be patient, that there is more than one way to understand a problem, and to focus on finding the solution.

5. What jobs are available in your organisation?

All current vacancies are listed here.

6. What skills does WWF-Singapore look out for in job applicants?

We do not only look for conservation scientists. Instead, we look for different types of people for the different roles. Most importantly, we look for people who are curious and willing to learn from others, by trying something new and by reading. We also look for people with strong 21st century skills.

7. Does WWF-Singapore welcome interns? If so, what are the eligibility criteria?

We look for interns and post openings on our careers page.

8. How can readers access more information about WWF?

They may access our website. They may also write to us at edu@wwf.sg for inquiries related to education and outreach.