Gabriella Carissa: Pushing Beyond What’s Possible

A woman with proven leadership experience, Gabriella Carissa is playing a pivotal role in process engineering at APRIL. Discover how she’s pushing beyond limits to ensure quality and efficiency in the paper-making process while inspiring a more inclusive and sustainable future.

In the paper-making industry, a smooth, efficient process is essential not only for maintaining superior product quality but also for minimising waste and maximising resource use. As a Process Specialist at APRIL, Gabriella Carissa plays a pivotal role in ensuring that every step of the process – from turning wood into pulp to produce paper – runs seamlessly. Throughout the entire operation, she helps optimise productivity while maintaining a sharp focus on safety, cost-efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Gabriella makes sure that issues are addressed promptly, driving operational and environmental efficiency.

Passionate about physics and engineering since high school, Gabriella earned a Tanoto Foundation scholarship to study Chemical Engineering at the University of Riau. She joined APRIL as a trainee, and after completing the programme, she was entrusted with leading 35 men (several of them much older than her) in the processing department. Overcoming gender bias within the team, Gabriella earned her team’s respect through dedication and persistence.

Gabriella believes that collaborative success is key to a smooth paper-making process. “A big part of ensuring everything runs smoothly is making sure all team members have the same knowledge and share the same vision,” she says. “Alignment is crucial. We focus on sharing solutions, so everyone understands their role and how they contribute to the bigger picture.”

With years of experience at APRIL, Gabriella has witnessed the company’s ongoing efforts towards sustainable growth and its commitment to creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace. “The real challenge is overcoming self-imposed limits,” she says. “True change comes when we shift how we think about our potential. We need to embrace a mind-set that pushes beyond what we believe is possible.”

Gabriella’s journey reflects APRIL’s commitment to achieving 20% women in leadership by 2030. It highlights how the company’s focus on inclusion and development is empowering women in leadership roles. Currently, 11.4% of APRIL’s leaders are women, including strong, resilient leaders like Gabriella.