Thiri Da Wei Aung
About yourself
I am a Myanmar ornithologist with over 15 years of experience in bird and habitat conservation. I have served as Executive Director of the Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association (BANCA) since 2019. My work focuses on globally threatened ASAP species such as Spoon-billed Sandpiper, Helmeted Hornbill, Baer’s Pochard and Gyps Vulture. I lead national vulture conservation as Chair of the Myanmar Vulture Working Group and serves as the member of Baer’s Pochard Taskforce. I connect grassroots efforts with international partnerships to protect biodiversity and promote long-term species and ecosystem resilience in Myanmar.
What inspired you to start working in the field of conservation?
Due to cultural and gender norms in Myanmar, my parents initially discouraged me from working in the field of conservation. However, driven by my passion and academic background in ornithology, I joined BANCA as a junior researcher. The Chair of BANCA recognised my dedication to bird research and conservation, which gave me both encouragement and opportunities to grow. Although I faced many challenges- as a woman, I experienced salary discrimination and was excluded from some travel opportunities. At that time, I felt a strong sense of injustice. In response, I took the initiative to independently apply for conservation projects myself. The project awards support me to get motivation I received—especially from leadership—strengthened my commitment. These experiences shaped my decision to continue working in conservation and to advocate for biodiversity and community-led efforts across Myanmar.
What is your biggest takeaway from the in-person retreat session?
The Now Leadership program has been a powerful and transformative experience, strengthening my confidence in my leadership role and enhancing my overall wellbeing. During the in-person retreat sessions, I learned so much from the facilitators and my inspiring fellow women leaders from across Asia. My biggest takeaway was the importance of mental health—especially recognizing when I am not well, both at work and in family life.
Through practices like creating tiny habits, setting boundaries, and meditation, I’ve learned the importance of taking care of myself. These tools have helped me reduce stress and sleep better at night. The retreat also deepened my understanding of how to identify areas needing attention in my life and how to develop strategies to support my wellbeing moving forward.
What does being part of the ASAP Network of Women means to you?
Being part of the ASAP Network of Women makes me feel supported, and empowered. For a long time, I felt like I was navigating the field of conservation alone as a woman—facing challenges that often felt isolating. Joining this network reminded me that I am not alone; there are many strong, resilient women working with similar passion and purpose across Asia.
This network gives me a sense of belonging and solidarity. It has inspired and energized me to continue my conservation journey with more confidence and determination. Through sharing experiences, wisdom, and encouragement of the network, I’ve gained not only professional support but also personal motivation.
I hope to contribute to the network by sharing my experiences, and amplifying the voices of women in conservation in Myanmar and beyond. I believe together we can break down gender barriers and create a more inclusive and equitable conservation movement in Asia.