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Farewell Interview with Hyeseon Do, Senior Programme Officer of EAAFP Secretariat
“I have truly fallen in love”: Hyeseon Reflects on Her Years of Experience at the EAAFP @EAAFP Secretariat Introduction Hyeseon Do recently departed from her role as Senior Programme Officer at EAAFP Secretariat. Hyeseon has been an integral part of the organization for the past six years, dedicating her time and expertise to furthering the mission of the EAAFP. As part of her farewell, this interview gave her an opportunity to share her unique perspective and insights gained during her extensive tenure with the EAAFP. As she bids farewell to her colleagues and moves on to new endeavors, we recognize the invaluable contributions she has made to the EAAFP's work in promoting the conservation of migratory waterbirds and their habitats along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). It also serves as a moment to celebrate her achievements and acknowledge the impact she has had on the organization's initiatives. Her dedication, professionalism, and passion for environmental conservation have been evident throughout her time with the EAAFP. We extend our best wishes to Hyeseon as she embarks on new endeavors, confident that her knowledge and experience will continue to drive positive change in the field of conservation. We are grateful that she has reflected on her journey, and shared her valuable insights to hopefully inspire others to take up the cause of protecting our precious waterbirds, their homes, and the livelihoods of those who depend on them. @EAAFP Secretariat Question: What was the motivation that brought you to the EAAFP Secretariat? Hyeseon: I started working at the EAAFP Secretariat as a Programme and Communication intern almost 10 years ago. I think that's how I started my life together with the EAAFP. My motivation came certainly from the people I had met, their inspiration, and migratory waterbirds (It was the first in my life to see through a scope! Like other most interns here.) during that internship period. That was amazing, to meet many conserving needs, our Partners and then the staff members who have been really motivated by Nature and a joint goal. I've never met such passionate people about their work and then for something most people probably don't focus on. So that was certainly a trigger for me to learn and then a rechanneling of my career and life path. Before I re-joined the Secretariat, I majored in international law in China and then I worked for the NGOs, a UN agency, an embassy, and then a law firm. My background is very diverse, and I was still very ambitious and hesitant to pick the best one I could pursue for the rest of my life based on my knowledge and experience and full of curiosities But as soon as I really met the devoted people here, I found that probably this is the kind of destiny that would make me work a lot meaningfully (or workaholic!) with a strong justification. Question: You mentioned that you were an intern at the EAAFP Secretariat 10 years ago. Do you see any parallels between your experience as an intern and your experience that came afterward as a Programme Officer? Do you think your experience helped you? Hyeseon: Yes indeed. The experience I had before being a Programme Officer having already had almost 15 years of experience in diverse environments including the school life in China had a great impact. The unique thing or character I probably would’ve brought to the Secretariat and to the Partnership was a little bit of a different sense of having work experience in a different way from the conservation field. So, I tried to bring the knowledge e.g. formulating a capacity building program and training internally and with the externals (including youth, and governments), diplomatic skills, strategic coordination skills, and administration management skills. All these experiences certainly helped a lot to shape my work stream, and workstyle and to make the Secretariat system settle in more effectively and efficiently. @EAAFP Secretariat Question: What big challenges did you face in your role as Programme Officer and what lessons did these challenges teach you? Hyeseon: Yes, the biggest challenge was I was not a keen birdwatcher, I didn’t know the names, and still the most difficult part! I've been thinking about this question a lot and of course, there are so many things beyond the specific challenges at work I have faced. But if I had to not consider only my challenges here but what the EAAFP is facing collectively it still would be the challenge of how to convince a wider group of people, how to strategically tell our story and mission to the people so that they are emotionally invested and being a supporter. We deal with a variety of stakeholders so effective storytelling taking that into account, to prompt their thoughts about the importance of biodiversity conservation or the importance of the migratory waterbird habitat was the biggest challenge. To address this, with the collaboration with my team and colleagues, I've been very focused on how our EAAFP can be branded globally and domestically and then how we can tell a compelling appealing story to anyone not only for our Partners, but for diplomats, mayors, private sectors, media, site managers, civil societies, and general public. So, I made a storyboard myself that targets different groups of people and considers what I need to tell this group or the other group in their languages. I trusted the person motivated will whisper our stories to their family, friends, and colleagues. @EAAFP Secretariat Question: Thank you for your answers. What is your message to your colleagues? Hyeseon: A message your work is contributing even though you can’t see the result right away and makes your work and time meaningful! One day the scattered dots will all be connected. Our work is invisible sometimes and then people also don't know. So, we personally need to be truly motivated, and we must be goal-oriented otherwise we can’t tell the real message we wanted. If we are not convinced by nature or by our mission our story that we cannot convince others. I highly recommend that everyone really tries to have that mindset and for everyone to really chase opportunities and hope for all of us. It’s been almost 10 years journeying with EAAFP Secretariat and still many former interns and colleagues said EAAFP Secretariat has a unique and amazing atmosphere which can’t be found in other organizations and miss about. We were special and will be! Please continue and then remember the precious moments you have in love and how we formed synergy together. That is all that’s needed. That’s my feeling and it's continued even now. @EAAFP Secretariat Question: I think working here it seems that you really have hopes for us and hopes for us to continue and for the entire organization as an entity not necessarily just as staff. What do you hope for? What is your hope for the EAAFP and the Secretariat? Hyeseon: There's a big hope! As everyone knows, the Partnership is growing and expanding, and it means that now there is greater awareness of how crucial nature is for all people. These days the biodiversity agenda is really on top of everything globally, especially when we talk about climate change. We shouldn’t miss this timing, we need to collaborate and cooperate more to synergize it and then make our agenda up front at site, regional and national levels (wherever you are and whatever you can) more than any agenda. Just emphasize that the nature and migratory waterbirds that surround you are there and that we really need to protect together (and that's the aim of our Flyway Partnership) as an indicator of the climate crisis and that we have been not just only working with the government Partner, but we work with other diverse Partners and collaborators, including the ground site level as well. The Partnership story is real, and we are not selfishly fighting for ourselves, for all of us including your family. That is my hope. Question: All right so now we're going to ask some personal questions only for you. Working at the EAAFP you might already have a lot of memorable moments, but can you share with us one of your most memorable moments you had while working at the EAAFP? Hyeseon: That's difficult to pick one of the memorable moments. Of course, I was really pleased to meet all of the Partners and supporters at the 11th Meeting of Partners in Brisbane early this year, we’ve collectively made many important decisions, danced, sang, laughed, and hugged - and were happy about being gathered again after the COVID pandemic. Another memorable moment I can think of - like for example EAAFP was part of the World Natural Heritage Site nomination for the Yellow Sea tidal flats (important habitats for migratory waterbirds) and because of that, I visited the different sites in Yellow Sea, and I met lots of the stakeholders including from countries, local government, experts and local communities, to understand the issues, conflicts, impacts, and concerns. I was just very honored to be a part of the journey of making the inscription happen eventually. The momentum that the Partnership really made is to see the support from the UNESCO member countries to agree to announce to the world that they encourage to protect these identified habitats for the Heritage in the Flyway as a top priority at the UNESCO committee meeting. At the moment, I also couldn’t stop crying and smiling as I knew how our Partners desperately wanted to protect these areas. My dream came true partially. I was really honored to be the presenter on behalf of the EAAFP to say that we are really pleased about the commitment and hope that following this example, other countries can step up together to really protect these habitats in every way they can for our Flyway and their Flyway. Subsequent follow-up measures and conversations are continuing until now. People talk more about Flyway everywhere. @EAAFP Secretariat Question So the job that you had, you got to the rank of Senior Programme Officer because you've been here a long time. When you're in a position for a long time sometimes your motivation can ebb and flow. Sometimes you're really motivated and sometimes the work seems difficult. How did you personally maintain your motivation to keep going with the job? Hyeseon: To be honest I think of course there were moments that I was discouraged, for example, if somebody isn’t committed after we put a lot of effort change their mind. In those moments I tried to meet the local people or visit the site because in any case, our ultimate goal is to give a benefit to their livelihood at the local level. As I was very new to the conservation field and flyway work when I joined the Secretariat, I had to put triple the effort than others to understand the dynamic and identify real impact at the local level and on Partnership. I didn’t want to ruin what people had built on, so didn’t mind approaching any people who will help me to have up-close lessons and experiences. Our Partners and supporters were always approachable and answered very patiently and kindly whenever I inquired (even though those are very easy ones). Looking back, my energy and motivation were from the people the most including our team members, colleagues, and flyway friends. Of course, sometimes I go bird watching or do local activities as well to really feel what we are doing the work for. Namdong Reservoir (located in Incheon, surrounded by industrial zones and an urban reclaimed city), Black-faced Spoonbill breeding habitat, was one of my favorite places I can breathe and seek a solution when I felt stuck. Question: I see. So, you're leaving very soon. What is your plan after leaving the Secretariat? Anything you're particularly excited about? Hyeseon: Sorry - I'm so excited about all! I definitely have mixed feelings as I leave you and all. Even though I won’t be a part of the Secretariat, the memory I really have had here with all of you is so memorable that I think whatever I do, I think that I will be trying to find a way to re-contribute the work of the Flyway. In the long term, my plan is to continue working in the conservation field and find ways to contribute in different ways. I want to join volunteering activities as a tour guide/site manager/educator/interpreter/birdwatcher at sites to understand the challenges and needs of local people and travel the natural sites around the world. Additionally, I'm interested in corporate engagement and how to incorporate the biodiversity agenda into their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) actions and strategies. So, I am taking a self-sabbatical with my new binoculars – I will be around, so don‘t be surprised if I show up in your country and event. Question: We now have a great idea as to what your experience has been here. But if you could sum up your feelings as you're leaving into one word or one phrase, what would it be? Hyeseon: Currently, I find it difficult to express my emotions precisely. However, I must admit that I no longer feel sadness because I have come to realize that no matter where I go, I will always be a part of the conservation work. This realization brings me a sense of gratitude and blessing, especially considering the remarkable individuals I have had the privilege of meeting and working with across the globe. Witnessing the shared passion and dedication of hundreds of people is a sight I had never before encountered. EAAFP was a truly special atmosphere and one that we should strive to preserve. Through these encounters, I have forged connections and friendships that span the entire world. This realization not only fills me with a deep sense of gratitude but also ignites an ever-growing love for the work we do and the mission we pursue. In all honesty, I believe I have truly fallen in love with the field of conservation. @EAAFP Secretariat The Secretariat created a message board for Hyeseon. If you have any message to her, please leave it here: https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/GbD0L90E
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The First Mangrove CEPA International Symposium in Shenzhen, China committed stronger cooperation and support to CEPA for wetland.
© Young Pai On the morning of July 6, the First Mangrove CEPA International Symposium in China, also the CEPA Sub-forum on Wetland Education for 2023 China Nature Education Conference was held in Futian, Shenzhen, where new cooperation on wetland education and commitment to promoting CEPA on wetland conservation were confirmed. The symposium was supervised by the Wetland Management Department of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, the Chinese Society of Forestry, the Forestry Administration of Guangdong Province, and the Shenzhen Municipal Planning and Natural Resources Bureau, hosted by Futian District Government and organized by Water Authority of Futian District, the Education Bureau of Futian District, Futian Mangrove Center and Mangrove Foundation (MCF). Ms. Jennifer George, Chief Executive of the EAAFP Secretariat, was invited to give a recorded remark at the opening ceremony. The Chinese Society of Forestry and the Government of Futian District jointly signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on Wetland Education at the meeting. The symposium was also determined that the CEPA International Symposium will be held annually in Futian District as a regular sub-forum of the China Nature Education Conference. Jennifer George, Chief Executive of EAAFP delivered opening remarks © Mangrove Foundation The first 16 "Mangrove Wetland Education Promotion Ambassadors" and 8 "Mangrove Wetland Education Partners" (Vanke Foundation, Ming Foundation, Aleshan Foundation, Zero Waste Society, Shenzhen Birding Society, Blue Ocean Environment Protection Society, Friends of Park Centre, MCF )(please add their organization names?) were announced at the conference. They came from the education, enterprises, media, arts, and culture sectors, and local environmental NGOs. The keynote speeches of the conference focused on the development of wetland education and invited experts, scholars, and practitioners from domestic and international wetland reserves and professional organizations to discuss the outreach and routes of wetland conservation and public awareness. Representatives including Mr. Connor Walsh, International Engagement Officer of Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Ms. Yang Shufen, Director of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve of Singapore, Yamme Leung, Director, Education, of WWF (HK) shared cases of international excellent wetland education centers. In the afternoon session, interactive discussions in parallel sub-forums were carried out around four modules: wetland education and formal education, public communication capacity for Spoon-billed Sandpiper conservation, citizen science for wetland conservation, and social participation for wetland conservation. Read more (in Chinese): 【视频】首届中国红树林湿地教育CEPA国际研讨会在深圳福田举办_腾讯新闻 (qq.com) 专家齐聚福田!直击首届中国红树林湿地教育盛会现场_腾讯新闻 (qq.com) 绿美广东丨支持国际红树林中心建设 中国湿地教育CEPA国际研讨会落户深圳福田|广东省|深圳市|福田区|湿地公约|生态系统|生物多样性_网易订阅 (163.com) 首批红树林湿地教育共建单位在深揭晓_深圳新闻网 (sznews.com)
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The second “Birds and Schools” in EAAF brings primary school students from Incheon and Hong Kong together
The second “Birds and Schools” event was held on 30th June, 2023, 30 primary school students from Incheon, Republic of Korea and Hong Kong, China, participated. The event was co-organized by Black-faced Spoonbill Eco Centre in Incheon and Hong Kong Wetland Park and the EAAFP Secretariat. The event is part of the CEPA programme under the Incheon-Hong Kong Sister Site Programme. The event was kicked off by a warm-up activity led by Vivian Fu, Senior Communication Officer of EAAFP Secretariat and an introduction about EAAFP. The Korean students taught students in Hong Kong the pronunciation of Black-faced Spoonbill in Korean, and vice versa. After that, Ms. Catherine Lam from Hong Kong Wetland Park introduced the “Hong Kong Wetland Park School Partnership Programme” which the students joined, and Ms. Mi-eun Kim from Black-faced Spoonbill Eco Centre introduced the organization, with moderation by Communication Assistant, Andy Lee. Primary school students from Incheon participated in the event © EAAFP Secretariat The main session of the event was the presentations by students who came from 6 primary schools: Chiu Yang Por Yen Primary School, Christian Pui Yan Primary School and YLPMS Alumni Association Tang Ying Yip Primary School from Hong Kong; Incheon Eunsong Elementary School, Incheon Dongmak Elementary School and Black-faced Spoonbill Eco Center Youth & Family Club from Incheon. The students introduced Black-faced Spoonbill along with other bird species found in the wetlands to each other, and shared the activities they carried out at the wetlands and what they learned and felt after the activities. Presentations by students from Hong Kong © Hong Kong Wetland Park Presentations by students from Incheon © EAAFP Secretariat After the presentations, Ejin Kim, Communication Assistant of EAAFP Secretariat led an interactive True-or-False game for students to show their understanding of what they learned from the presentations. The students enjoyed the game. The event concluded with certificates presented to the students who participated and made the presentations. An interactive True-or-False game © EAAFP Secretariat Incheon students listening to the presentation from Hong Kong © EAAFP Secretariat Student participants receiving the certificates © Hong Kong Wetland Park Student participants receiving the certificates © EAAFP Secretariat “Birds and Schools” was initiated from the Wetland Link International (WLI), in which both Hong Kong Wetland Park and EAAFP are members of WLI – Asia – Oceania. Learn more: https://wli.wwt.org.uk/resources/priority-theme-resources/migratory-birds/birds-and-schools/
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WWT’s launch of Foundation Course in Wetland Health and Vitality
EAAFP Partner, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT), is pleased to announce the launch of the first Foundation Course in Wetland Health and Vitality, part of our developing Wetland Learning Hub. The online learning platform is aimed at early career professionals or those that want to develop their understanding of wetland conservation. The Team is looking for 50 wetland people to help us test this pilot. See https://wetlandlearninghub.org/ for the website and how to apply, deadline: end of July 2023. The pilot course is free this year and will run over October and November 2023. Thanks to all their partners that have helped in creating this resource. Website: wetlandlearninghub.org E-mail: [email protected]
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Farewell to Ejin Kim, Communication Assistant
© EAAFP Secretariat In the words of Ejin Kim, "Working at the EAAFP Secretariat as a Communication Assistant made me experience many things I would never gain if I were not here. Before I joined the EAAFP, I wanted to explore myself as well as my career path since I’m majoring in Global Affairs and concentrating on Media, Communication, and Culture. Throughout my university life, I only focused on school-related communication. Thus, I had a doubt whether I should follow this field for my career since I was unsure how communication can be connected to other areas. At the same time, working at an international organization was one of my dreams, and pursuing the environment field was my interest. Thus, I wanted to have hands-on experience, which matched my academic background and environment. My experience as a Communication Assistant could widen my perspectives and teach me how communication is important to environmental sectors. During 6 months at EAAFP Secretariat, I tried and worked on new things that were totally new to me. As a Communication Assistant, I was involved mainly in CEPA activities, which fascinated me with the connection between communication and conservation works. It was a great opportunity that I could be involved in activities of various types such as uploading daily SNS posts, publishing monthly e-Newsletters, and facilitating annual big campaigns related to World Migratory Bird Day. Also, I could expand my environmental knowledge by supporting the EAAFP Black-faced Spoonbill Conservation Cooperation Forum and the 11th Meeting of Partners. At Black-faced Spoonbill Conservation Cooperation Forum and Black-faced Spoonbill café © EAAFP Secretariat The first big forum that I supported was the Black-faced Spoonbill Conservation Cooperation Forum. The participants came to the forum in person/online to discuss how to conserve them in a sustainable way. By supporting this forum, I could talk with many people from different countries with experts on the environment and see the importance of Partnerships since conservation could not work by only one organization. Also, I could learn how international organization organizes events to make cooperation between different people with one shared goal. Explaining how to play Lulu game to children © EAAFP Secretariat In addition, one of my most valuable experiences in EAAFP was the World Migratory Bird Day campaign project. World Migratory Bird Day is one of the biggest campaigns of CEPA activities for raising awareness of the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. To celebrate the WMBD, I contributed to creating translated WMBD global posters in 12 EAAF languages, designing three species introduction Card News that was shared on UN Biodiversity, and facilitating the Black-faced Spoonbill birthday party. During the birthday party, I explained how BFS migrates and how to play the Lolo game to the children, and checked whether they answered correctly. I was happy that I was the person who encouraged children to be active in migratory bird conservation activities and provided the opportunity to learn about the birds and their environmental importance. The whole series of events and works could increase awareness of the importance of the connection between migratory waterbirds and water to the public audience. I realized that the public should know the significance of migratory waterbirds and habitats to conserve them strongly. Group photo of Gochang BBR & birdwatching © EAAFP Secretariat Furthermore, by joining Gochang Big Bird Race, I could participate in birdwatching to directly feel the importance of migratory birds and promote them to the public. By running a booth, I engaged people to know more about EAAFP and the significance of migratory waterbirds and their habitats. Joining the Gochang BBR with my colleagues was an invaluable experience because this was my first-ever bird-watching experience and it made me enjoy the bird watching and seeing the many species. Birds and Schools Group photo © EAAFP Secretariat The last important event that I facilitated was Birds and Schools, the Black-faced Spoonbill education exchange program between Incheon and Hong Kong. I communicated with two countries to organize and coordinate the event and worked as a moderator of the Q&A Quiz session. Students enjoyed the whole activity and actively participated in learning about the same birds that migrated to two different countries. © EAAFP Secretariat My internship started with the Black-faced Spoonbill Cooperation Conservation Forum and ended with Birds and Schools. I could never experience these if I did not join the EAAFP as Communication Assistant. These whole experiences grew me a lot and made me increase my problem-solving skills as well as communication skills. Also, I was happy that I could gain lots of environmental, especially migratory waterbirds knowledge. Even though I finished my 6-months internship, I would pay attention to migratory waterbirds and habitat conservation works. Thanks to EAAFP, now, I can go further in my future journey based on what I have learned from EAAFP."
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Farewell to Yeonah Ku, External Relations Specialist of EAAFP Secretariat
11th Meeting of Partners (2023) © EAAFP Secretariat Over the past three years, from June 2020 to May 2023, I had the privilege of working at the EAAFP Secretariat, making meaningful contributions to various projects. As a Local Project Coordinator (Jun 2020 – Jan 2023) and External Relations Specialist (Feb – May 2023). From my early experiences to my recent endeavors, I have dedicated myself to the field of conservation and sustainable development. Beginning with my study background in biology and ecology, I have pursued my passion for protecting our natural world and promoting sustainable practices. This passion took root during my junior year of university in 2009 when I first delved into the realm of wetlands and waterbirds, gaining a deeper understanding of the Ramsar Convention and the East Asian – Australasian Flyway. Building upon this foundation, I joined the EAAFP Secretariat in 2018 as a Communication Specialist for six months (Article), where I further developed my abilities in effectively conveying the importance of conservation efforts. I have immersed myself in various projects within the realm of sustainable development, conservation, and energy plan policy. During my tenure as the Local Project Coordinator, I spearheaded two crucial projects in the RO Korea: the "Collaboration on Conservation of the Hwaseong Wetlands" (2020 – 2022) and the "Incheon-Hong Kong Conservation Project on Migratory Waterbirds and their Habitats" (2022 – 2023). International Symposium for the Hwaseong Wetlands (2021) © EAAFP Secretariat A Discussion for Sustainable Development of the Hwaseong Wetlands (2022) © KFEM Hwaseong The "Collaboration on Conservation of the Hwaseong Wetlands" encompassed a range of activities, including international symposia, communication with local stakeholders, ecological surveys, training programs for locals, public awareness events, and the formulation of management strategies. Notably, I played a significant role in crafting proposals and reports such as “Wise Use of the Hwaseong Wetlands Flyway Network Site: 2020 Final Report”, “The Proposal for the Management Directions for the Sustainable use of the Hwaseong Wetlands”, and “A Vision for the Hwaseong Wetlands”. See the overview article: Activities of the EAAFP Secretariat for Hwaseong Wetlands Conservation Projects 2020-2022 (link) the 3rd Incheon-Hong Kong International East Asian-Australasian Black-faced Spoonbill Conservation Cooperation Forum (2023) © EAAFP Secretariat The "Incheon-Hong Kong Conservation Project on Migratory Waterbirds and their Habitats" focused on waterbird surveys, Black-faced Spoonbill census, communication and education efforts, and organizing international forums. Through this project, we achieved remarkable milestones, including record-breaking Black-faced Spoonbill populations, strengthened collaborations between Incheon and Hong Kong, and the launch of educational initiatives. These accomplishments are showcased through various articles, reports, and videos that highlight the significance of our conservation efforts. 2020 Black-faced Spoonbill Census Results showed Black-faced Spoonbills population hits record high (link) 1st forum: Incheon-Hong Kong International East Asian – Australasian Flyway Black-faced Spoonbill Conservation Cooperation Forum (link) 2nd forum: Stronger working relationship between Incheon and Hong Kong to conserve Black-faced Spoonbill (link) 3rd forum: Move forward for Black-faced Spoonbill Conservation in EAAF (link) A Tale of Black-faced Spoonbill Linking Two Cities – Launch of Incheon-Hong Kong Sister Site Agreement video (link) World Migratory Bird Day: WWF collaborates with EAAPF to Launch an Updated Education Pack “Lolo Flying Journey” about Black-faced Spoonbill (link) Linking environmental educators from Hong Kong and Incheon for conservation of migratory waterbirds (link) Report of monitoring of migratory waterbirds 2021 – 2022 at the Songdo Tidal Flat Flyway Network Site in Ro Korea (link) I am immensely grateful for the collaborative spirit demonstrated by diverse sectors within and beyond the EAAFP. It was through our combined efforts that we achieved these remarkable outcomes. Additionally, I had the privilege of supporting communication with Korean governments and civil societies on various conservation matters, drawing upon my network and experience. Conservation of migratory birds and their habitats along the Han River Estuary, Ro Korea (link) At the Nakdong Estuary FNS, river flowing freely for the first time in 35 years (link) Special Exhibition on Shorebirds of Nakdong Estuary, Ro Korea (link) First Upo Wetland Symposium held to promote harmony between birds and people (link) Confirmation of important sites for Scaly-sided Merganser in Ro Korea (link) Scaly-Sided Merganser- Workshop in Suncheon (external link from HSS) Conference on Management of Flyways in Asia (link) EAAFP Secretariat visited Partner and Flyway Network Site in New Zealand (link) As the External Relations Specialist, I also played an essential role in managing sponsorships and corporate engagement for the 11th Meeting of Partners (MOP11) and other external relations projects. Our endeavors fostered fruitful partnerships and showcased the profound impact of collaboration between humans and nature. MOP11 sponsor page (link) Corporate engagement page (link) EAAFP leads happy companionship of humans and nature through the Ulsan Symposium for Migratory Birds (link) Looking back on my time at the EAAFP Secretariat, I am proud of the accomplishments we achieved together. My journey here has solidified my passion for wetlands and waterbirds, which first ignited during my junior year of university when I discovered the Ramsar Convention and the East Asian – Australasian Flyway. As I transition from this role and embark on new opportunities, I am eager to continue making a meaningful impact in the conservation and sustainable development realm. If you would like to connect with me or discuss potential collaborations, please feel free to reach out to me at [[email protected]]. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey, and let's continue our collective efforts in safeguarding our precious natural heritage. Warm regards, Yeonah Ku
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