Fellowship Program

“I learned how to strategically develop projects, including how to initiate new projects and raise funds from potential donors. I also learned about global issues and challenges and opportunities in the forestry sector, which broadened my insight and understanding. Over the 6-month period, I assisted in project proposal evaluation, especially the technical and budget reviews of the new proposals, AKCF, and NTFP Regional Project. I hope to share my experiences with my fellow Indonesian colleagues so we can have a common understanding on AFoCO’s project processes and cooperate better in the future.”

“Through the Fellowship Program, I gained a deeper understanding of AFoCO’s mechanisms and strategies and have been directly updated about AFoCO’s work and activities through engagements in various meetings. I am happy that with my experience managing the Viet Nam Landmark project over the past 5 years, I am able to help in project monitoring and evaluation, developing instructions on the PIP matrix and drafting standard cost norms for AFoCO projects. I was also able to contribute to the development of the country profile document of Viet Nam.”

“Over the six-month Fellowship Program, I have had the chance to actively support my country in the preparation of 2 projects that were funded through AFoCO. Many activities within the Secretariat help promote a better understanding of the project management cycle. Timor-Leste is seeking to develop new essential projects in the near future to help the government achieve its vision of securing forests resources and sustaining its uses for the welfare of people.”

Veronica passed away from illness in early 2022. We extend our sincere condolences to her family.

“The Fellowship Program gave me a valuable opportunity to work in an intergovernmental organization. I had many chances to learn about the important role of facilitation and communication, gained experiences in developing reports and policy briefs, and assisted in organizing international training and workshops. My experiences have strengthened my capacities and widened my knowledge in international forestry cooperation.”

“The Fellowship Program provided me with more opportunities to gain knowledge and build my capacity in international forest cooperation. I was also able to network with officials and project personnel from AFoCO member countries well as partner institutes and international organizations that AFoCO works with. I am thankful for the precious memories during my six months in the Republic of Korea. In Cambodia, I hope to share my experiences and knowledge with my colleagues.”

“The Fellowship Program was an eye-opening experience for me. The Program’s interdisciplinary approach makes it well-suited for young officials who want to contribute towards addressing challenging forestry and climate change issues. Having the opportunity to work with an outstanding team and the governments of the member countries to achieve a shared goal was the highlight of my Fellowship experience. I am certain that the hard and soft skills I gained from my experience will positively impact my future career as a forester. Now, I am ready to support the initiatives between Mongolia and AFoCO.”

“This journey of six months has truly been one of the most memorable career experiences I have had. Being a part of such a diverse team in a collaborative work environment has been an amazing experience altogether. I now know how AFoCO pursues its goals and forest initiatives in close cooperation with its member countries and partner organizations. Aside from all the things I learned here, I will definitely take back with me the work etiquette and dedication seen at the Secretariat. I hope to continue promoting and supporting AFoCO in the future.”