Spending my internship at Dassa was one of the most meaningful and heartwarming experiences in my journey as an environmental learner and enthusiast. From day one, I already felt that this was not just a workplace, but a growing space—a place where people don’t just work on projects, but truly care about what they stand for. I was surrounded by experts who have been working in carbon and conservation for a long time, but what impressed me most was not just their expertise, but the way they shared their knowledge: warm, down-to-earth, and incredibly genuine.
I learnt a lot about carbon and biodiversity projects from the small projects I was given during my internship. But beyond the numbers and technical documents, it was the stories behind them – stories of struggle, of community, of nature, and of H.O.P.E – that made the biggest impression on me. Each story touched my human side and made me learn not only as an academic, but also as a human being who wants to understand the world more deeply and honestly. Dassa helped me see that the environmental world is much more complex than I thought. There are so many layers, voices, and interests intertwined. And in the midst of all that, I was invited to think critically, but also with an open heart. I got a lot of valuable input for self-development, especially in the social approach to research that requires sensitivity to the surrounding environment and empathy for the people affected. At Dassa, I feel like I am not just seen as an intern, but as a learning partner – and that is something I am very grateful for.
What makes this experience even more special is the supportive and sharing atmosphere. I was never afraid to ask questions, as every enquiry was met with a smile and a willingness to explain. This kind of environment is rare—and Dassa has it. I came away from this internship not only with new knowledge, but also with my spirit reignited. Dassa has re-energised me, not just to keep going in this field, but to really fight with my heart. I feel more confident that this is the path I want to take: a path to protect the environment and stand up for communities that often go unnoticed.
Thank you, Dassa, for being a place that is not only full of knowledge, but also full of love. I hope Dassa will continue to grow, continue to make a real impact, and be happy every step of the way-one year from now, five years, even a hundred years from now haha. The world needs more places like Dassa and I feel lucky to have been a small part of its journey.
May every small fire lit within Dassa burn long and bright in the lives it touches—just as it has in mine.
With all my respect and love,
Irtiyaah Mareta Sari
Dassa’s Internship Batch 1