Puspita Bahari: The Fisherwomen's Movement in Coastal Demak

This zine is the result of a powerful collaboration between Puspita Bahari and the University of Leeds, uniting fisherwomen, researchers, and artists to amplify impactful stories of resilience, leadership, and community-driven change. Puspita Bahari, a fisherwomen’s community in Demak Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia. They were founded in 2005 with the spirit of empowering fisherwomen and helping them improve their welfare and escape and break the chains of patriarchal culture. Puspita Bahari was born as an oasis amid the strong patriarchal culture in coastal communities and to challenge the continued dominance of masculinity within the fisherfolk movement in Indonesia. Through this zine, we bring to life the voices and experiences of fisherwomen navigating the challenges of climate change while showcasing innovative, community-led, and transformative practices. This creative celebration is more than a publication—it is a feminist act of documenting women’s knowledge, power, and leadership for a local, national, global audience, inspiring change and igniting hope. Together, we celebrate the strength of Indonesia’s fisherwomen and their vital role in shaping a sustainable and equitable future.