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<\/p>\nKrystel Pe\u00f1aflor, a licensed forester and dedicated biodiversity conservationist, has spent much of her life deeply engaged with nature, science, and conservation.<\/p>\n
Raised in the serene province of Pangasinan, Krystel\u2019s early years were defined by a sense of wonder for the environment and a thirst for knowledge that would ultimately shape her path. Now, as she works in forestry, climate research, and youth empowerment, she\u2019s determined to inspire young Filipinos to pursue careers in science. Her story reflects a journey filled with curiosity, challenges, and a calling to protect the Philippines\u2019 unique biodiversity.<\/p>\n
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Growing up as a \u201csickly child,\u201d Krystel wasn\u2019t able to play outdoors as much as her twin brother. Instead, she spent her childhood in the peaceful farming community where her grandfather lived. It was here that her fascination with nature and learning truly began. Krystel recalls, crediting books and documentaries on channels like Discovery Channel and National Geographic for fueling her early passion for conservation.<\/p>\n
At just 16, she embarked on her college journey at the University of the Philippines Los Ba\u00f1os, choosing to study forestry. The university introduced her to a community of passionate professors and mentors who taught her not only the intricacies of forestry but also the value of resilience in the face of challenges.<\/p>\n
Krystel reflects on a pivotal experience during a field research trip to Polillo Island, where a typhoon left her and her classmates stranded, creating an unexpected opportunity to study the island\u2019s wildlife. This experience not only deepened her commitment to conservation but also instilled a profound sense of responsibility toward vulnerable species. \u201cWe accidentally killed an animal\u2026 my professor was nearly in tears and said, \u2018Remember, these animals are giving their lives for us to learn.\u2019\u201d It was a moment that showed her conservation is more than just a career\u2014it\u2019s a calling that demands dedication, compassion, and respect.<\/p>\n
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After college, Krystel\u2019s career became a journey to make a meaningful impact. She joined the Climate Change Commission and worked as a Science Research Specialist at the University of the Philippines, contributing to climate adaptation and disaster management. Despite limited opportunities in the Philippines leading many scientists to work abroad, Krystel chose to return and apply her overseas experiences locally. \u201cI think I\u2019m one of the few who really came back\u2026to bring it here, to replicate the knowledge and the practices, to really improve the life of the Filipino people,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n
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Krystel also sheds light on the unique struggles faced by women in science, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by men. \u201cMas pinipili nilang bigyan ng job o ng opportunity yung mga lalaki kaysa sa mga babae,\u201d she notes, referring to the gender biases that still exist in scientific fields like forestry. These obstacles have only strengthened her resolve to support the next generation of women scientists and conservationists, using her own experiences to empower others.<\/p>\n
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Krystel co-founded the Youth Climate Navigator (YCN) in 2019 to engage youth in environmental efforts through tree-planting, webinars, and ecotourism training, reaching over 200 local farmers and promoting sustainable practices. In 2023, she launched EmpoWoment Storytellers: Women for Climate & Biodiversity, empowering 80 women across Southeast Asia to advocate for conservation through storytelling. \u201cAt college, we learn about Ecotourism and Agroforestry\u2026 so we can provide livelihood to local people, but we have to teach them how to have sustainable tourism,\u201d Krystel shares, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to conservation.<\/p>\n
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Her advocacy extends globally, representing the Philippines at international forums like the YSEALI Women Leadership Academy. There, she shares Filipino resilience practices, emphasizing climate action. To aspiring scientists, she stresses the importance of funding in science: \u201cWhen you\u2019re conducting research, it involves a lot of funding\u2026 without it, we cannot integrate science-based research into policies.\u201d<\/p>\n
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A notable highlight of Pe\u00f1aflor\u2019s academic journey was the completion of her MSc in Island Biodiversity and Conservation during the 2021-2022 academic year, where she became the first scholar from Southeast Asia to join this prestigious program. Offered by the Jersey International Centre of Advanced Studies (JICAS) and accredited by the University of Exeter in the UK, the course provided her with unique learning experiences, from hands-on exposure to cutting-edge technologies to having the entire island of Jersey as a scientific laboratory. The program was taught by world-renowned experts, allowing Pe\u00f1aflor to engage deeply with innovative STEM education methods and real-world applications.<\/p>\n
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As an international student, Pe\u00f1aflor not only expanded her scientific skills but also enjoyed immersing herself in British culture, exploring historic landmarks, and building lasting friendships with locals and fellow students. This experience further ignited her passion for STEM, reinforcing her commitment to advancing her field and inspiring others.<\/p>\n