Before joining the Master of Social Sciences in Nonprofit Management programme, I spent over a decade working on bird conservation. While my scientific background allowed me to address ecological challenges, I came to realize that the most critical element in nature conservation is people—their values, behaviours, and capacity to drive positive changes. This realization motivated me to pursue a social science-focused master’s program to complement my ecological expertise.

The program not only broadened my perspective but also equipped me with tools to better engage communities, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and integrate social and ecological dimensions in conservation efforts. The rich learning environment, insightful discussions with peers and teachers, and inspiring site visits proved invaluable in strengthening my understanding of the human aspects of conservation and organizational development of nonprofits.

This transformative experience has equipped me to advance my career when I moved on to work with international organizations, fostering communication and international cooperation among governments, NGOs and local stakeholders to achieve conservation goals on a regional scale. Beyond professional growth, the programme also brought me lasting friendships, with some classmates becoming good friends. I am grateful for how the program has shaped me into a more holistic conservationist, ready to tackle complex challenges with innovative, people-centred solutions to promote a sustainable future and harmony with nature.