For Hla Doi, studying a Master of Environmental Management and Development at the Australian National University (ANU) has been more than an academic pursuit – it’s been a journey of growth, faith and service.

“I came to Australia with a commitment to strengthening environmental governance and advancing justice for Indigenous communities,” says the scholar, a proud Kachin and Christian from Myanmar. “That purpose continues to guide everything I do; in my studies, my volunteer work, and in how I connect with people here in Australia.”

At ANU’s Crawford School of Public Policy, Hla Doi has deepened his understanding of how environmental policy connects to human development: “I’ve learned how governance structures, sustainability goals, and policy practice must all work together to create meaningful change.” His dedication earned him a GPA of 5.33 out of 7.

“Academic excellence, for me, is not just about grades, it’s about growth and contribution – it shows how engaged I am with the issues and ideas in my studies.”

Beyond the classroom, Canberra became a second home. “Living in Canberra has been an incredible blessing. It’s not only an excellent academic environment, but also a welcoming community that embraces diversity and faith.”

Hla volunteers at All Saints Anglican Church in Ainslie and serves as Mission Coordinator at Hallelujah International Church (HIC) organising worship and outreach programs. Earlier this year, he took on a leadership role coordinating a mission trip to Melbourne and Bendigo. “We visited several churches to share messages of encouragement and to strengthen intercultural fellowship,” he explains. “It was an inspiring experience, and we witnessed how faith can connect people from very different backgrounds.”

Hla Doi celebrates his heritage through actively participating in events like Thingyan, Myanmar’s New Year Water Festival, hosted by the ANU College of Asia & the Pacific and the ANU Myanmar Students’ Association (ANUMSA). He also proudly represented Myanmar at Toad Hall’s Multicultural Festival, joining other Myanmar students to prepare food and showcase their culture. “The festival was a beautiful reflection of community life at ANU,” he said. “There’s a real sense of global connection here and people are curious, open-hearted, and respectful of different cultures.”

Hla has also made the most of scholar engagement opportunities offered by Australia Awards Myanmar, joining scholars to attend the Staying Connected Professional Linkages Workshop at the University of Melbourne, the Emotional Intelligence workshop at the University of Adelaide, and he’s been selected to attend the Introduction to Futures Thinking Workshop at ANU in November.

“The scholar engagement workshop in Melbourne was one of the highlights of my Australia Awards journey. It provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on leadership, service, and community engagement. I learned that leadership is not about authority but about listening, humility, and collaboration. I remain in contact with other scholars, discussing how we can contribute to the development of our countries after studies.”

Hla Doi attended the Professional Linkages Workshop in Melbourne,2025.

Community engagement is central to Hla’s journey. He helped raise over AUD 10,000 for earthquake relief in Myanmar and regularly volunteers in gardening and environmental restoration. He has delivered lectures on climate change and geopolitics for Myanmar-based organisations, linking ANU learning to real-world challenges.

Hla has words of encouragement for scholars looking to make the most of their time on the Program:

“I encourage all scholars to embrace opportunities beyond the classroom. Workshops, internships, and volunteer initiatives not only build professional capability but also shape character and perspective.”

“These experiences have helped me grow as a communicator, mentor, and servant leader. They remind me that even small acts of service can create meaningful change when approached with sincerity and humility.”

Hla Doi explored the University of Melbourne campus during the Professional Linkages Workshop in 2025.

In Canberra, Hla’s favourite things to do include gardening at All Saints Church, joining multicultural festivals, and peaceful walks around Lake Burley Griffin. The worst thing about his host city? “The cold winter mornings!” But his new favourite food – Fonda’s Mexican in Braddon – helps take the edge off the cold.

As Hla looks to the future, his vision remains anchored in service and justice. “When I return to Myanmar, I plan to continue working on climate change adaptation, Indigenous rights, and environmental governance. I want to ensure that Indigenous worldviews and Christian values of stewardship and care for creation are reflected in national and regional policies”.

“My time at ANU has been deeply fulfilling—academically, culturally, and spiritually. Education is not an end point; it’s a responsibility to be stewarded. I feel called to use this knowledge to create change where it’s needed most.”