Finding a Global Innovation Family with WAITRO
I’m Theresia Ningsi Astuti from Indonesia. My first encounter with WAITRO came in 2019 through a regional capacity-building program – but what I discovered went far beyond a typical training. I found a truly global network, a community of innovators from around the world, and a space where science meets collaboration in the most inspiring way.
A Turning Point in My Professional Journey
In May 2019, I had the privilege of attending a WAITRO program hosted at the Concorde Hotel in Shah Alam, Malaysia. The event brought together over 100 participants from all corners of the world – Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. It was one of the most enriching professional experiences of my life.
The training tracks were diverse and timely. I joined workshops on:
- RTO Management – strengthening institutional leadership and strategy
- Commercialization – bridging the gap between research and market
- Internet of Things (IoT) – exploring future technologies and smart solutions
- Personal Care Technology – tapping into innovation in the cosmetics sector
- Solar Thermal – learning about sustainable energy applications
Each track was delivered by experts, and each discussion sparked ideas I could take back to my work at BRIN. It was practical, relevant, and deeply inspiring.
More Than Training – A Sense of Belonging
What struck me most was not just the technical content – it was the people. In a matter of days, strangers from different regions and cultures became friends, collaborators, and part of my growing professional circle.
WAITRO created a space where ideas flowed freely and every voice was valued. Despite our differences, we were united by a shared purpose: to use science and technology to make the world a better place. We laughed, we learned, we shared stories – and in doing so, we built lasting connections.
A Platform for Continued Growth
That program in Malaysia was just the beginning. Since then, I’ve participated in multiple WAITRO activities and felt myself grow with each one. I’ve had the opportunity to:
- Join webinars and expert forums
- Network with researchers across continents
- Explore collaboration opportunities for joint proposals
- Exchange ideas that shaped new research directions
Through WAITRO, I gained not only knowledge, but confidence. I realized that as researchers from the Global South, our ideas and innovations matter – and we have a global family cheering us on.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
WAITRO has changed how I see international cooperation. It’s not just about funding or technical exchange – it’s about trust, shared values, and working together for something bigger. It’s about building a more inclusive and innovative world, one project and partnership at a time.
As I look to the future, I hope to contribute even more – whether through collaborative research, mentoring young scientists, or simply continuing to connect. Because the strength of WAITRO is in its people, and I’m honored to be one of them.
