Henky Irawan is a lecturer in the Department of Aquaculture and a Faculty of Marine and Fisheries Sciences at the Universitas Maritim Raja Ali Haji (UMRAH) in Indonesia. Henky started his career at UMRAH in 2009 by focusing on the sustainability of the Mangrove Forest, Seagrass and Coral Reef ecosystems, and their support on aquaculture and general fisheries activities. Heis a prominent leader in educating younger generations on conservation in the Mangrove Forests.

IVLP Impact Award Project: Introducing Fun Mangrove Planting Activities for Gen Z University Students as an Effort to Increase Sustainable Marine Life Habitat 

Henky’s project introduces young university students to mangrove planting activities to foster a deeper understanding of sustainable marine life habitats and the significance of mangroves in supporting marine life. Through hands-on experiences, Henky seeks to instill a sense of responsibility and personal connection to environmental conservation efforts.  

Thus far, Henky has grown mangrove seedlings that now have reached three months of maturity. Select university students will plant these seedlings in October. Henky has recruited 100 university students for the planting activities. He is also organizing workshops for the students to share valuable knowledge on marine ecosystems, ecological principles, and environmental stewardship.

“I want to Introduce the fun mangrove planting activities for Gen Z university students as an effort to increase sustainable marine life habitat. The important role of the existence of mangrove forests is as a unifying humanity to form communities in the area” - Henky Irawan 

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Henky participated in the IVLP Project Sustainable Fisheries Management, organized by the U.S. Department of State and World Learning, in partnership with Gulf Coast Diplomacy, World Affairs Council of Maine, World Affairs Council of New Hampshire, and World Affairs Council of Seattle 

Henky’s exchange experience led to the development of his project: “Leveraging the knowledge and connections from the IVLP sustainable fisheries management experience when visiting Nashua National Fish Hatchery can enrich the mangrove planting project's implementation, enhance its ecological outcomes, and foster meaningful partnerships that advance the shared goal of conserving and restoring coastal habitats for the benefit of both marine life and local communities.”   

“[I will] incorporate knowledge and connections from the IVLP sustainable fisheries management experience gained during interactions with Mr. Keith McGilvary, the Hatchery Manager at Nashua National Fish Hatchery, one of the many field stations of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service... Plants and their habitats can significantly enhance the effectiveness and impact of the mangrove planting project in my country.” -Henky Irawan 

U.S. Communities Visited

Washington, DC; Pensacola, FL; Portland, ME; Manchester, NH; Seattle; WA 

Country: Indonesia

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