Born and raised in the eastern part of Singapore, Farah Sanwari grew up in a landscape defined by high-rise buildings, fast-paced development, and an ever-expanding cityscape. But amidst the concrete and glass, she found herself drawn to the quieter, greener spaces: small community gardens, parks tucked between blocks, and the stories shared by elders about kampong life. These early experiences planted the first seeds of environmental awareness, shaping her lifelong commitment to sustainability and community care.
From a young age, Farah stood out for her reflective nature. She asked questions that many overlooked. Why were natural spaces disappearing? Why did waste feel like a normal part of everyday life? Raised in a multicultural society where traditions and modernity coexisted, she developed a deep sense of responsibility not just to the planet, but to the people who called it home. In school, she excelled in both science and the humanities, a dual strength that later defined her approach to environmental work, blending analytical thinking with compassion and storytelling.
Her journey into environmental leadership began during her university years, where she found herself increasingly involved in grassroots initiatives. It was there she discovered the power of small, community-driven action. This passion led her to co-found several impactful sustainability projects, including FiTree, a pioneering initiative that connects Islamic teachings with ecological stewardship. By linking environmentalism to faith and values, Farah created space for more people to see sustainability not as an external obligation, but as a deeply personal and spiritual commitment.
But Farah’s path was not without challenges. As a young Malay woman advocating for environmental justice in spaces that were often dominated by more privileged voices, she had to navigate issues of representation, inclusion, and institutional inertia. There were moments of resistance, burnout, and the frustration of seeing policies prioritize economic growth over ecological balance. Still, Farah remained grounded in her belief that change must begin with people and relationships. She chose to lead with empathy, building bridges rather than barriers.
Today, Farah Sanwari is widely regarded as a thought leader in Singapore’s environmental movement. Her impact is felt not only through the projects she has led but through the lives she has touched, especially among youth, minority communities, and faith-based groups. By bringing environmental action down to earth and making it accessible to all, she has helped shift the narrative in a city often focused on speed and development. Her legacy is one of quiet, persistent transformation. It is a reminder that sustainability is not just about saving the planet, but about nurturing the bonds between people, place, and purpose.