Nova Ruth

Nova Ruth Setyaningtyas is a singer, musician, and activist born in Malang in East Java, Indonesia. Growing up singing in churches, reciting the Qur'an, playing gamelan and singing Javanese pentatonics, her tunes represent her multi-religious background. Her lyrics make her a voice of nature, often dealing with environmental and women issues. She primarily sings in Javanese, and firmly believes that genuine emotions can transcend language barriers more effectively than any language that exists.

Together with her partner Filastine, Nova is the co-founder of Arka Kanari: a floating cultural platform that takes the form of a 70-ton sailing ship on a mission to foster resilience to climate change and reconnect people with the sea through their music. They have circled the globe twice, and are now voyaging the Indonesian water to share live music performances and host workshops from the deck of the ship. Nova is also co-founder of The Women of the Seven Seas, aiming to connect women from all aspects of maritime life.

Photo: Gevi Noviyanti