Passionate about enhancing socio-economic development in Asia, Iari has over 6 years of experience at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Jakarta and obtained her Masters Degree in Asian Studies from Leiden University. Prior to joining Aflatoun as Project Manager Asia, she managed political cooperation and several projects on human capital development to deliver quality education and training towards a future-ready workforce. Iari joined Aflatoun in May 2021. 

Why do you work for Aflatoun International? If I could sum up our world today in one word, it would be inequality. I want to fight inequality in education by trying our best to give a fairer start to children and youth around the world, many of whom have no control over their circumstances. 

How would you explain what you do to a 5-year-old? I work to support the people who help you learn and play inside and outside the classroom. 

Why is social and financial education important? Social and financial skills are highly relevant, practical and prevalent in every aspect of life. They foster critical thinking and creativity, which are crucial for children and youth in particular to reach their full potential. 

What do you like most about Aflatoun International? Its diversity and commitment to empower children and youth around the world. 

What is something NGOs have to deal with that you want to fix? Leveraging each other’s capacity and resources to maximise potential impact whilst avoiding duplication of efforts. 

How do you see the future of Aflatoun International? I believe Aflatoun’s work will become increasingly relevant, and that Aflatoun will be at the centre of collective action in the field of social and financial education. 

Please share with us a motto or quote close to your philosophy of life.  “To me, it underscores our responsibility to deal more kindly with one another, and to preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we’ve ever known.” – Carl Sagan, of Earth as photographed by Voyager 1 – Pale Blue Dot (1995)