Thien Vilandry Lestary Miru

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT THIEN VILANDRY LESTARY MIRU

I’m a policy analyst, social worker, and program coordinator with over 10 years of experience working at the intersection of community empowerment, environmental and social justice, and inclusive development. My journey began in the remote Aru Islands of Indonesia, where I led interfaith initiatives, climate education, and Indigenous advocacy efforts. Now, as a Master of Social Work candidate at Columbia University specializing in Policy Practice, I’m building on that foundation with global research, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement skills. I’ve worked across government, academic, and grassroots sectors—designing and managing programs that promote gender equity, Indigenous rights, youth empowerment, and sustainable development. From coordinating large-scale education trainings and environmental campaigns, to conducting research on child protection policies and leading advocacy communications, I bring a unique combination of field insight, strategic planning, and research-based decision-making. Currently, I’m co-developing a US-based nonprofit organization with Professor Fumiko Sasaki and fellow colleagues from China and Indonesia. Our mission is to support underrepresented, grassroots NGOs in Indonesia that focus on underprivileged children. By building capacity, visibility, and international collaboration, we aim to uplift local initiatives making real impact in underserved communities. My work is guided by a deep belief that social and environmental change must be inclusive, locally grounded, and globally informed. I’m especially passionate about climate adaptation, education reform, and community-led development. Let’s connect if you’re working in social policy, international development, Indigenous empowerment, or any effort aimed at creating sustainable, inclusive systems.