Redefining Leadership in Thailand’s National Parks
Credit: Ranger Federation of Asia
“Women are just as capable as men.” These words define Nipaporn Paisan’s journey as she rises through the ranks in Thailand’s protected area management, breaking gender barriers with resilience and leadership.
As the Chief of Ob Luang National Park, Nipaporn has led conservation efforts while navigating complex challenges, from legal designations to community concerns. Her career began with a forestry degree specializing in Park, Recreation, and Tourism Management, followed by work in environmental education. However, she sought greater challenges, which led her to fieldwork in Chiang Mai, where she took on leadership roles in some of Thailand’s most ecologically significant parks.
Her appointment as Chief of Ob Khan National Park tested her ability to balance conservation with local livelihoods. When the park’s designation met fierce opposition, over 200 villagers surrounded her, refusing to let her leave, fearing restrictions on their traditional way of life. Rather than enforcing regulations with force, she chose dialogue over confrontation. Patiently, she reassured the communities that conservation and their traditions could coexist. Over time, her perseverance transformed conflict into cooperation, leading to a sustainable ecotourism model that benefits both people and nature.
Later, at Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park, she tackled law enforcement challenges and revitalized tourism while strengthening community relationships. She firmly believes that women bring essential skills to park management, especially in communication and trust-building, which are vital in conservation work.
Inspired by dedicated park chiefs like Winich Rukchart, Nipaporn hopes to leave behind a legacy of balancing conservation with community well-being. She sees leadership not as exerting authority but as working alongside her team, fostering motivation and unity. Her advice to aspiring female conservationists: “Stay true to your values, resist external pressures, and never lose sight of your mission to protect nature.”
This story was authored by Peeranuch Kappelle, Southeast Asia Representative of the Ranger Federation of Asia.