The “Sound of SEMESTA: Film Screening and Discussion” seeks to bridge this gap by showcasing the connection between culture, spirituality, and environmental stewardship. In the end, this event invites students to rediscover the ecological values embedded in their heritage and recognise that sustainability is not a new idea, but a continuation of deep-rooted care for nature from generation to generation.

This initiative aligns with the University of Sydney’s Sustainability Vision and SUPRA Impact Grant’s mission to empower students in creating meaningful social and environmental impact. Through learning from environmental stewards from Indonesia, hopefully it can inspire reflection, crosscultural appreciation, and active participation in building a more sustainable and inclusive future.

We are pleased to feature our Keynote Speakers:

Moderator: Associate Professor Noverini Djenar, Department of Indonesian Studies, The University of Sydney. Associate Professor Novi Djenar is a leading scholar in the field of Indonesian linguistics and cultural studies at the University of Sydney. Her research explores 4 the relationship between language, identity, and social change in contemporary Indonesia.

Speaker 1: Professor Jeffrey Neilson, School of Geosciences, The University of Sydney.
Professor Jeffrey Neilson is an economic geographer whose research focuses on global value chains, sustainability transitions, and rural development in Southeast Asia. Over the past two decades, he has worked extensively with farming and indigenous communities in Indonesia, exploring how local livelihoods intersect with global sustainability agendas.

Speaker 2: Nerlian Gogali (Join via Zoom), Founder and Director, Institut Mosintuwu (Poso, Central Sulawesi) Nerlian “Lian” Gogali is a renowned peace activist, feminist theologian, and founder of Institut Mosintuwu, a community-based organisation in Poso, Indonesia, dedicated to peacebuilding, gender justice, and interfaith dialogue.

Details
Date: Thursday, 23 October 2025
4.00pm - 6.30pm

Venue:
In person: Lecture Theatre 320, Susan Wakil Health Building (SWHB), The University of Sydney

As this event is catered, registration is essential. Please only register if you plan to attend.

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