A walk on the wild side: Jigme's story

A passion for conservation led Jigme to pursue studies in environmental management. He aims to make change, one project at a time.

Wildlife enthusiast Jigme is dedicated to making the world a better place for animals. Working on several field projects early on in his career fuelled his passion for wildlife conservation and he knew he wanted to learn more.

With an environmental management degree under his belt, Jigme returned to his native country of Bhutan in central Asia where he now works, walking the field walk and talking the animal talk.

Straight into the field

Prior to studying at CDU, Jigme worked at the Royal Society for Protection of Nature in Bhutan within project management and field coordinator roles.

On completion of his master’s degree he returned to the Royal Society and began working extensively in the conservation of Black-necked Cranes (Grus nigricollis) and their habitats in Bhutan.

Jigme’s qualifications enabled him to step up to higher responsibilities. “I’ve been involved in a number of major conservation projects and have worked closely with stakeholders, agencies and landowners to achieve harmonious outcomes for all,” says Jigme.

“It’s such a great feeling to achieve outcomes that benefit everyone. Being a leading force in developing the Black-necked Crane Action Plan has been a career highlight for me and getting my work published has also been wonderful.”

A flying start

With his career off to a flying start, Jigme has a lot to be thankful for, including the platform CDU gave him to start his career.

“CDU has really given me the confidence to engage with the broader community," he says.

The management modules I studied have helped me in my current role with professional networking and promoting my ideas.

And for his contributions, CDU has recognised Jigme with a nomination for the Alumni Awards.

A future worth looking forward to

As far as the future’s concerned, there’s no slowing Jigme down. As well as working full time he’s an active participant and representative in numerous conservation committees and organisations and has plans to continue publishing work regarding his projects.

But his past decisions are what got him here.

I was attracted to CDU because the course was holistically packaged, covering specifics such as a species conservation and management module.

I was also attracted by the multicultural campus,” Jigme adds.

“I was fortunate to meet students from countries I’d never heard of, and while learning about diverse culture and systems myself, I was proud to represent my country and showcase my culture and traditions too.”

Get in and get on

With an exciting career ahead of him and experience on his side, Jigme knows that he’s taken the right path.  So, what advice would he give his younger self?

Stop thinking about furthering your education, just do it.

"Broadening educational experiences early on will give you more opportunities to maximise your capabilities.”

Passionate about conservation? Explore environmental science and management courses at Charles Darwin University.