Jenne De Beer recognized with distinction as NTFP-EP‘s Member Emeritus
Johannes Henricus de Beer, also known to many as “Jenne,” has been honored as Member Emeritus of NTFP-EP, marking a milestone in his illustrious career and recognizing Jenne’s role in founding NTFP-EP 26 years ago. Hailed as the “father” of the Non-Timber Forest Products movement in Southeast Asia but “grandfather” or “lolo” to his colleagues and friends in NTFP-EP Asia who celebrated his journey with forest dependent communities and community-based organizations for whom he dedicated his service and advocacies.
As the founder and inaugural Executive Director of NTFP-EP from 1998 to 2010, Jenne established a foundation that continues to shape sustainable development practices across the region. His pioneering work as an ethno-ecologist, researcher, advocate, and writer brought critical attention to the significance of forest products in supporting local livelihoods and fostering sustainable development. Through his efforts, Jenne empowered forest-based communities to safeguard their ancestral lands and responsibly manage forest resources, ensuring their long-term viability.
Jenne’s path to leadership in conservation and community empowerment began in The Netherlands, where he pursued education and early career endeavors in social work. His unconventional journey led him to embrace the persona of “Sloom,” a clown performing with a donkey, before embarking on extensive fieldwork and academic research in Borneo, particularly in Sarawak and West Kalimantan. It was here that Jenne’s deep-rooted passion for environmental conservation and community welfare flourished.
In the 1990s, Jenne demonstrated hisdedication by supporting Philippine organizations, and Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPs&LCs). He advocated for their land rights and helped them secure access to Non-Timber Forest Product (NTFP) permits. His co-founding of NTFP-EP Asia not only elevated the visibility of non-timber forest products as emblematic of the importance of forests and the critical need to recognize Indigenous Peoples territorial rights, he also in particular drew attention to the rights of the marginalized Negrito tribes (the first Filipinos). He fostered a spirit of unity through cultural festivals that celebrated their heritage. Jenne’s advisory roles with NGOs, academic institutions, and diverse stakeholders further underscored his dedication to sustainable resource management and cultural preservation.
His advocacy for indigenous rights and sustainable practices earned him the prestigious Darrell Posey Fellowship, affirming his role as a champion of forest communities across Southeast Asia.
As Jenne de Beer assumes the honorary title of NTFP-EP’s member emeritus, we celebrate his enduring impact and look forward to the continued influence of his visionary leadership.
This special recognition event was a heartfelt tribute to Jenne’s visionary leadership and enduring contributions to our organization and the broader community. Jenne’s dedication and passion have been the cornerstone of NTFP-EP’s mission, inspiring countless initiatives and collaborations. His legacy continues to guide and inspire us as we move forward.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE EVENT
