Karmele Llano Sánchez

Dr. Karmele Llano Sánchez is a Spanish-born wildlife veterinarian and conservationist who has dedicated more than two decades to protecting Indonesia’s wildlife and biodiversity. Since arriving in Indonesia in 2003, she has devoted her career to rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting endangered wildlife, particularly orangutans and other primates.

As CEO of YIARI from 2008 when it was founded, she leads conservation initiatives that go beyond wildlife rescue, integrating habitat protection, forest restoration, environmental education, and community empowerment. Her work is driven by the belief that protecting wildlife also means protecting forests and supporting the communities that depend on them.

Through her leadership, YIARI continues to advance a holistic approach to conservation, creating a future where people, wildlife, and nature can thrive together.