Niyanta Spelman is the remarkable CEO of Rainforest Partnership, an organization that protects the world's rainforests with a unique approach by working directly with local and indigenous communities. Born and raised in Tanzania, and having worked in different parts of the world, Niyanata Spelman has a wealth of experience working with people of different cultures and adapting to various situations. A biology major from the University of Texas at Dallas, she later studied MPAff and environmental policy from The LBJ School of Public Affairs.

Niyanta Spelman has held several leadership positions in various organizations such as advising the board at SXSW Eco, serving as commissioner for the City of Austin Planning Commission, and as a board member in several organizations such as Texas Federation of Asian American Chambers of Commerce, Liveable City and PPPMC, Inc. She has also worked as a budget analyst at Texas Legislative Budget Board and as a legislative aide at Texas Legislature.

However, the most exciting and challenging position she has held is being a CEO at Rainforest Partnership. With her team, Niyanta Spelman works tirelessly to create global impact through an integrated approach that directly protects the forests by partnering with local communities. She is an inspirational leader, mentor and an eco-warrior, who has dedicated her life to promoting a sustainable environment.