K Sugitha P Kanniaseelan

About Sugitha's Community Action Project (CAP)

At WWF-Malaysia, I lead the Eco Champion Awards, a programme that supports young people—especially those from marginalised communities—to turn their ideas for the environment into real projects through workshops, mentorship, and small grants. I’ve seen how powerful it can be when these youth become changemakers in their own communities, inspiring others to take action. But many still face barriers like language and financial constraints, which limit their ability to participate. That’s why I’m proposing a new youth leadership programme focused on reaching young people in WWF’s priority conservation areas. By working closely with local teams and community leaders, we can help these youth develop the skills and confidence to lead, while honouring their indigenous knowledge and supporting their ideas with the tools they need to succeed. I believe this is how we nurture future leaders who care deeply about their communities and the planet.

About Sugitha

Sugitha Kanniaseelan is an experienced education and sustainability leader, currently serving as Programme Lead for Education for Sustainable Development at WWF-Malaysia. She leads youth-focused environmental initiatives and community-based action, building on her academic leadership roles as Assistant Professor and Head of School. With a career spanning public relations, higher education, and the NGO sector, Sugitha bridges theory and practice to empower the next generation of changemakers.

She has played a strategic role in national education reform through her advocacy within a national ESD and global citizenship coalition, contributing to the inclusion of Education for Sustainable Development as a key thrust in Malaysia's national education policy. Committed to inclusive and holistic education, she aims to continue supporting greener education systems by empowering teachers and students, especially from marginalised communities. A certified yoga instructor and strong advocate for youth leadership, Sugitha integrates wellness, creativity, and purpose into her work—most notably through Earth Hour youth summits and WWF-Malaysia’s staff retreats.

More About Me

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grow up?
I wanted to grow up to be of service as it brought me immense joy even as a child and I am so glad that I now serve the planet itself!

Anything else you'd like to share with us?
My biggest wish is for our planet to heal and, in time, flourish.