The ICLEI Oceania Region is growing! We are thrilled to introduce several new staff members who bring a wealth of expertise, passion and diverse experience to our mission of supporting sustainable local governance across the region.
Meet our new team members
Dr Hartmut Fünfgeld
ICLEI Professor of Practice: Local Government Climate Resilience
In a unique partnership with La Trobe University’s Climate Change Adaptation Lab, Hartmut returns to ICLEI to bridge the gap between research and practice. With two decades of experience across Australia, Europe, Africa and Asia, Hartmut focuses on making a tangible difference for rural, regional and urban councils. His role will be pivotal in developing training courses and building capacity for locally-led climate adaptation.
Dr Jyoti Prasad
Coordinator: Pacific Islands Office
Based in our Pacific Islands Office in Suva, Fiji, Jyoti brings deep regional expertise to this role, with over a decade of experience spanning climate policy, finance and nature-based solutions across the Pacific. She has worked with major regional and international organisations on local government strengthening, ecosystem-based adaptation, food security and livelihoods, and community-based climate action. Her academic credentials include an MSc in Climate Change and a PhD in Ecosystem-Based Adaptation from the University of the South Pacific.
Eleanor Dewar
Professional Officer
Joining us in 2026, Eleanor focuses on our strategic pathways with a special emphasis on nature-based solutions. Having previously worked on a world-first urban nature project in Aotearoa New Zealand, she brings deep expertise in stakeholder engagement and a commitment to driving system-level change that benefits both people and place.
Su Inan
Communications & Administrative Officer
After a successful internship with ICLEI Oceania, Su has now joined the team to support our communications and daily operations. Currently completing her Master of International Relations at the University of Melbourne, Su combines a background in political science with a creative approach to sustainability and community-led initiatives.
Looking ahead
The addition of these talented individuals strengthens ICLEI Oceania’s ability to tackle the complex environmental and social challenges facing our region. Whether through high-level research partnerships or on-the-ground support in the Pacific, our team is more equipped than ever to foster resilient, sustainable and nature-positive communities.