Diera Gala Paksi is Project Manager of AI Ready ASEAN Programme, a flagship regional initiative fully funded by Google.org and led by ASEAN Foundation. He leads implementation across 10 ASEAN Member States, overseeing AI literacy efforts that aim to reach 5.5 million beneficiaries, including 2,000 master trainers and 800,000 youth, educators, and parents. 

With over 13 years of experience in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and community development, Diera has worked across government, NGOs, international organisations, mining companies, and startups, consistently driving inclusive, impact-focused programmes. Prior to his current role, he served as Consultant to Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (KOMDIGI), advising on Microsoft’s USD 1.7 billion AI investment. He also led a national education initiative under Microsoft Philanthropies, reaching 100,000 underserved beneficiaries, and previously managed LISTRAF project, a World Bank-supported initiative to transform Indonesia’s labour market by enhancing labour market information systems, upgrading skills development programmes, and improving access to employment services for the working-age population. 

Diera holds certifications in ISO 26000 and Social Return on Investment (SROI), reflecting both practical expertise and principled commitment. He brings this depth to AI Ready ASEAN Programme, ensuring it is not only successful but also sustainable and locally rooted.