“Where there is a will, there is a way!”

Shruti Dhungel, 28, is Finance and Compliance Officer at WWF Nepal, an international non-government organization that works in the field of conservation. Currently pursuing Association of Chartered Certified Accountant, Shruti has her own share of challenges and achievements while working at WWF, an organization that isn't in contest with her educational background.

Republica caught up with her for a quick career chat.Tell us about your responsibilities at work.

As a Finance and Compliance Officer, I give finance related support to programs and grantees. I'm also responsible to ensure compliance with relevant organizational, national, and international regulations and donor policies.

What do you love the most about your job?

While working here for over two years now, I love how my job has widened my perspectives on different issues and instilled in me a strong appreciation of my country's resources. My work also entails traveling to various parts of the nation and this allows me to observe and appreciate the beauty and diversity of my country.

Similarly, I love how the work I do on my computer is reflected in the field and touches the lives of humans and wildlife alike. We make a difference in people's lives, change the way they live, and this gives me a tangible sense of accomplishment that is hard to put into words.

What has been some of your challenges?

The lessons we are taught in our classes don't always suffice for real life challenges, so I'd say that's one of the biggest challenges I had to face. Coming from a non-science background, I work in a science based organization and at times situations can be quite challenging from a technical perspective. But on the flipside, that's also the beauty of my job because I get to learn new things every day.

Other challenges are to make some people realize the importance of conservation. It's also difficult to reach and work in certain areas of the country that are hard to access.

What does it take to be a successful professional?

Success in a professional context might mean different things for different people. For me, being successful is waking up with a goal, working hard towards attaining it and sleeping at night content with the knowledge that I've done my best. The goals may change but the determination, work ethic and passion to realize them must always be there.

Do you have a work mantra?

I firmly believe in strong work ethics and hard work on the job. These are the two mantras that will help you succeed in any work you do. No experience goes to waste; all experiences test us, allow us to learn something new and help us unlock our potential. There is no hurdle you cannot overcome if you're armed with strong work ethics and determination. Like they say, where there is a will, there is a way.

Your future plans?

I do not believe in making plans, and frankly, none of my plans have ever fallen in place together. When I was planning to become a researcher, I entered the field of banking. And when I left banking to study further, I got an offer from WWF Nepal to work with them and I took it, packing my bags and moving to Pokhara in the process. We should learn to take life as it comes, but of course we should also have a backup plan in case things go pear-shaped. I plan to work for a few more years before I go back to completing my education.

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