A journey from forestry to human resources: Embracing change, empowering people!

Starting my career in the development sector, I was someone deeply rooted in the forestry field. My work revolved around the green, lush landscape, nurturing biodiversity, supporting community-based forest management and promoting sustainability. Every day, I found inspiration in nature’s quiet strength and resilience. 

But life brought a sudden change, and I made a bold shift from managing trees to managing talents, stepping into human resources management. This transition surprised many, including myself, but somehow, it felt deeply right. 

At first, I was nervous and uncertain. It was a completely new experience for me. I often felt hesitant, sometimes emotional, as the forestry program had always been close to my heart. This journey wasn’t without its challenges, as switching sectors meant unlearning, relearning, and stepping away from the path I had long known. It also meant embracing a new professional identity. But the support from my colleagues, the inclusive and encouraging culture of Arannayk, and my own belief in myself have helped me ground myself in this new role. For that, I remain deeply grateful to them!

Over time, the transition from conserving green horizons to caring for workplace wellbeing taught me a valuable lesson: it’s not just the trees that make a difference; it’s the people. This realization sparked a personal transformation. 

I understood that investing in both natural ecosystem and human potential can bloom with care, and together, they can shape a brighter, more sustainable world, turning into powerful resources. Just as trees capture carbon and store it for years to benefit the planet; people, too, contribute to the planet’s well-being through their fresh ideas and the insights they’ve gathered over the years.

Today, as the HR & Wellbeing Officer at Arannayk Foundation, I work to foster and manage human relationships through understanding people, building trust, and creating an environment where individuals feel valued, supported, empowered, and resilient. Becoming the strategic partner of office management and voice of employees, I strive to ensure that the same care we give to our ecosystems is reflected in how we care for our people, creating space for their growth and unlocking human potential.

Looking back, I see my career as a tree; it may have branched out in a new direction, but its roots remain the same: a commitment to making a positive impact. Whether through protecting environment or employee development, I am proud to contribute to Arannayk’s mission in a way that brings both nature and people together.

After all, I believe true sustainability means caring for both the planet and the people, through fairness, equity, inclusion, and decent work!