How would you describe the learning environment and support at RGU?

Back in 2015–16, I studied oil and gas management, which I had no background in. To be honest, it wasn’t easy. I often felt out of my depth, trying to keep up with unfamiliar concepts while surrounded by classmates from all over the world, many of whom already had extensive work experience in the industry. But looking back, that experience shaped me in ways I hadn’t expected. I never imagined that I would one day go on to establish an environmental non-profit organisation in Bangkok. Although the connection simply wasn’t there at that time, I gradually began to see how my understanding of the oil and gas industry could help me approach environmental challenges more realistically and practically.

Did you take part in any placements, internships, or industry projects during your studies?

Yes. I worked as an intern at AGR, a multidisciplinary engineering consultancy, where I was involved in shaping digital marketing strategies. Today, I draw on that experience to develop marketing strategies for the Econok Foundation.

How well do you feel your course prepared you for your career?

Although my course focused on oil and gas, I’ve come to realize that what I gained is far from limited to one field. It provided me with a strong foundation in management and leadership. Working in a different country and cultural environment, I’ve had to constantly adapt and reshape that foundation through trial and error to advance our initiatives. In many ways, however, that’s exactly what makes the journey so rewarding.

Tell us about your current role and what a typical day looks like.

I currently work as a Project Executive, leading our Saving Energy 101 program with the support of our dedicated volunteers. In Thailand, more than 80% of electricity generation still relies on fossil fuels. While access to electricity is often taken for granted, many people don’t fully recognise the environmental costs behind it. Through our workshops, reaching students from elementary school to university, we aim to instil the importance of energy conservation and foster greater environmental awareness. Since launching the program in October 2024, more than 5,000 students have taken part in our workshops.

What’s one thing you learned at RGU that still shapes your life or work today?

Different perspectives—and even opposing ones—play a crucial role in shaping how I think. As I mentioned earlier, my class was highly diverse, spanning different ages and backgrounds. Each person brought a unique perspective, and their opinions often surprised me. Sometimes, they directly challenged my own views, but over time, I’ve come to see how valuable those moments were.

What’s a career moment you’ll never forget?

It seems unlikely that I would have started my own organisation if I hadn’t studied at RGU. Compelling scientific evidence does not necessarily change people’s mindsets or behaviour, and this is especially true when it comes to tackling climate change. Since moving to Thailand in 2019, just before COVID 19 broke out, I’ve felt a strong desire to do something meaningful for society. Seeing the gap between environmental messaging and the reality on the ground (at least in Thailand) pushed me to establish the Econok Foundation and approach environmental challenges from a different perspective. That was a turning point in my career.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give an RGU student today?

Ordinary days hold just as much meaning as the special ones. Cherish each day by taking the time to care about and listen to the people around you.

The renewable energy illusion provides insight into the thinking behind our Saving Energy 101 program and the need for environmental education. If you’re interested, please take a moment to read it.

Econok - The Renewable Energy Illusion