The Biodiversity Friends Forum
The Biodiversity Friends Forum was initiated in 2017 to provide an avenue for individuals new to the biodiversity scene to become introduced to issues and take action, through the mentorship of members of the nature community represented in the Biodiversity Roundtable of Singapore. This mechanism is part of Singapore’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), providing platforms for mentorship, conversation and action.
The Biodiversity Friends Forum (BFF), was initially envisaged as a youth branch of the Biodiversity Roundtable but is now open to anyone of any age keen to learn about and make a difference for nature.
On 12 August 2017, the first Forum was launched to understand the needs of individuals new to the nature scene. 120 individuals between 16 and 30 years old drawn from JC students, polytechnic students, undergraduates, postgraduates and working adults registered for the forum. From the focus group discussions with Facilitators , BFF formulated relevant capacity building tools and workshops to develop skill sets and establish relationships necessary for a participatory community concerned with biodiversity issues.
The BFF Challenge
The BFF Challenge is a structured capacity building programme organised within the Forum. In 2018, the first forum was initiated in response to the need for public education about Human-Wildlife Interactions in Singapore. Through seminars, workshops and On-The-Job trainings, the challenge equipped participants with basal knowledge necessary to learn about and take action for these issues. This programme culminated with public outreach at the annual Festival of Biodiversity.
The Biodiversity Roundtable
The Biodiversity Roundtable is an initiative of the National University of Singapore and National Parks Board with members of over 20 NGOs involved in local biodiversity issues. The Biodiversity Roundtable meets regularly to discuss issues and events related to the biodiversity of Singapore. We have organised the annual Festival of Biodiversity since 2012.
Biodiversity Friends Forum 