To Bich Ngoc
About yourself
With nearly 15 years of experience in communications and resource mobilization for nature conservation and sustainable development in Vietnam, I have taken on diverse roles such as editor, video production, media campaign management, in-depth desk research, field surveys, community crowdfunding, and building enterprise partnerships. These experiences have enabled me to work closely with local communities, authorities, experts, media, businesses, and government agencies.
Currently, I focus on supporting local NGOs in conservation through resource mobilization, collaborating with businesses on ESG and CSR communications, and developing the LoCoFoRest Vietnam network to advance sustainable forestry initiatives.
My greatest passion is to connect resources, create shared values, and foster lasting social and environmental impact toward a just, harmonious, sustainable future.
What are some of the rewards and challenges working in conservation?
For me, the greatest rewards in conservation are not measured in numbers but in witnessing real change, shifts in awareness, behaviours, and the shared commitment of communities. Small but consistent contributions can have an enduring impact. I feel fulfilled when a communication campaign raises awareness among tens of thousands, a crowdfunding initiative mobilizes meaningful support, or a project earns the trust of corporate partners and donors. Initiatives I have helped develop, such as “Regreening Forest”, “Contribute Leaves to Forest”, and “For Green Planet”, have contributed to restoring degraded forests, reviving habitats for endangered species, including the Northern White-cheeked Gibbon, and strengthening sustainable livelihoods through the combined efforts of local communities, authorities, businesses, government, and conservation organizations.
Conservation remains challenging. Livelihood pressures, short-term funding, and cultural or awareness gaps can limit engagement, while fragmented policies and a scarcity of skilled, passionate conservationists add complexity. Yet perseverance, collaboration, and supportive initiatives such as ASAP and NOW Leaders continue to inspire and help overcome these challenges.
What does being part of the ASAP Network of Women mean to you and what do you hope to achieve?
As a woman working in conservation through communication and marketing rather than a scientific background, I have sometimes felt that I did not fully belong in this field. Becoming part of the ASAP Network of Women reassures me that my contributions are truly valuable and strengthens my confidence in the path I have chosen.
This amazing network is more than professional growth. It fosters visibility, builds confidence in leadership, nurtures meaningful connections, and inspires action. It is a safe and supportive sisterhood where we can open up about both joys and struggles, especially the unique challenges women face in conservation. It is a space where vulnerability is met with understanding, voices are recognized and celebrated, and gentleness and strength naturally walk hand in hand.
Meeting inspiring women leaders in conservation from across Asia reminds me that none of us walk this journey alone. I have learned, shared, and grown immensely through these connections. Together, NOW Leaders uplift one another, promote solidarity, cultivate resilience, and create a community that protects nature, empowers women, and plants seeds of hope for a sustainable future in which people live in harmony with one another and with nature.
What is your biggest takeaway from the in-person retreat sessions?
The in-person retreat profoundly reshaped how I see myself, others, and the world around me. It was a rare pause from the busyness of life, giving me space to slow down, listen inwardly, and reflect beyond work goals. In that safe space, I reconnected with my core values and gained clarity on how I wish to live and lead.
I learned the importance of visibility, both to myself and to others, and the need to nurture well-being in body and mind. I realized that true leadership begins with self-leadership: when I am grounded and well, I can listen, empathize, and support others with greater sincerity. Learning and practicing “tiny habits” reminded me how small, consistent actions can spark big and lasting change.
Most importantly, I left with meaningful connections, renewed confidence, and a deeper commitment to authenticity, compassion, and bravery - values that will continue to guide my journey and ripple outward to those around me.