LocationsEmpowering Futures: A conversation with Jay Suparnee Pongruengphant, Gender Advisor on how to Shape Global Change & Social Inclusion with UNDP Thailand
September 13, 2024
1. Tell us about yourself: What is your educational background/professional experience and what inspired you to work with UNDP Thailand?
My educational background includes an undergraduate degree in International Relations from Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand and a master's in International Management from the University of London in the United Kingdom.
Professionally, I have been building my career at UNDP since my graduation. My time at UNDP has been a fulfilling journey, primarily centered on human rights. Initially, I engaged in anti-human trafficking initiatives, working on projects aimed at combating modern slavery and protecting vulnerable populations. This role provided me with hands-on experience in addressing one of the most pressing human rights issues of our time. I was deeply inspired by the resilience of the communities I worked with and the impact of the collective efforts of UNDP's national partners.
In 2015, I transitioned to focusing on gender issues, allowing me to address gender-based inequalities and advocate for LGBTI rights and women’s empowerment. This role involved developing and implementing strategies to advance gender equality and working closely with various stakeholders, including government bodies, the private sector, and CSOs (Civil Society Organizations). My work in this area has been driven by a profound commitment to challenging discriminatory practices and creating opportunities for marginalized groups.
My decision to work with UNDP Thailand was influenced by my long-standing passion for human rights and my admiration for UNDP's mission to foster sustainable development and social justice. UNDP Thailand’s focus on innovative solutions to local challenges and its strategic approach to empowering communities align perfectly with my professional experiences and personal values. The opportunity to contribute to UNDP Thailand’s impactful projects, which address both immediate needs and long-term development goals, resonates deeply with my dedication to advancing human rights and promoting equity.
2. What is a day at the office like?
A typical day at the office is dynamic and multifaceted. It involves a combination of in-person and virtual meetings where I engage with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders to drive our initiatives forward. I spend a considerable amount of time coordinating with various partners through calls, emails, and messaging platforms, ensuring that our efforts are aligned and progressing efficiently. My day is filled with discussions that range from high-level strategy to specific project implementation, all of which are focused on advancing gender equality and social inclusion. The fast-paced environment means no two days are the same, with new challenges emerging regularly, alongside opportunities to make a tangible, positive impact. This requires adaptability, problem-solving, and ongoing collaboration across teams and partners.
3. What are some of the challenges you encountered you have faced in this role and how have you overcome them?
One of the most significant challenges I have faced in my role is addressing deeply ingrained public attitudes and stereotypes that perpetuate stigma, discrimination, and violence against women, LGBTI people, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. These societal biases are often resistant to change and can hinder progress toward gender equality and social inclusion. Overcoming these challenges has required a multifaceted approach: persistent advocacy to raise awareness, targeted capacity enhancement initiatives to shift perceptions, and the building of strategic partnerships with governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector to influence inclusive policymaking. Additionally, engaging with communities to foster dialogue and understanding has been crucial in creating a more supportive environment for marginalized groups. It is a continuous process, but by combining long-term strategic efforts with adaptive, context-specific interventions, we have been able to make gradual progress.
4. Tell us about your favourite moment with UNDP Thailand.
There have been many memorable moments during my time with UNDP Thailand, but one that truly stands out is hearing from a third party about the positive impact of our work, particularly when our national partners express their recognition and appreciation for UNDP’s contributions. It is incredibly rewarding to know that our efforts in promoting gender equality and social inclusion are not only making a difference but are also being acknowledged by key stakeholders. This external validation, especially when it comes from government or influential civil society organizations, reinforces the importance of our work and fills me with pride. Being part of an organization, whose initiatives are respected and valued at the national level motivates me to continue striving for meaningful change.
5. In what ways does this position enable you to contribute to the achievement of an inclusive and sustainable society?
This position allows me to leverage the UN’s convening power to advocate for gender equality, human rights, and social inclusion across a range of platforms. It provides me with opportunities to engage in dialogue with key stakeholders, from government officials to civil society organizations, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and considered in policy-making processes. I have had the privilege of speaking at and contributing to numerous national and local initiatives, where we work to influence positive change. This role also enables me to collaborate with partners from various sectors—government, private, and nonprofit—creating synergies that help advance inclusive development. By fostering these partnerships and driving forward inclusive policies and practices, I can contribute directly to building a more equitable and sustainable society, ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind.
6. How is democratic governance significant to your work in promoting climate action, advancing the rights of vulnerable people, advocating for inclusive and responsive policies or fostering a just and equitable society? And how do you apply a democratic development approach to your work to drive progress in respective areas?
Democratic governance is fundamental to my work because it ensures that the voices of all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable, are heard and considered in decision-making processes. It creates the necessary framework for inclusive participation, enabling marginalized groups to influence policies that affect their lives. By promoting participatory governance, I contribute to the development of policies that are not only responsive but also reflective of the diverse needs of society, particularly in areas like gender equality, climate action, and social inclusion.
In my role, I apply a democratic development approach by facilitating open dialogue between communities, governments, and other stakeholders, ensuring transparency in processes, and fostering accountability in policy implementation. I also work to support initiatives that empower communities, giving them the tools and platforms to actively shape their futures. This approach is key to driving progress toward a just and equitable society, where governance is inclusive and policies are designed to serve everyone, especially those who are most at risk of being left behind. It helps ensure that our climate action efforts, human rights advocacy, and policy development are sustainable and equitable.
7. What piece of advice would you give to those who are considering applying to #JoinALifeChangingMission with UNDP?
My advice to anyone considering joining #JoinALifeChangingMission with UNDP is to be prepared to challenge yourself and embrace opportunities that push you beyond your comfort zone. Working with UNDP is more than just a job; it is a commitment to driving real, tangible change in the lives of people around the world. You will be part of a global team that tackles some of the most complex and pressing issues of our time—whether it is promoting gender equality, advancing human rights, or addressing the impacts of climate change. It requires adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to learn continuously. If you are passionate about creating positive change and ready to contribute to solutions that have a lasting impact on communities, UNDP is the right place for you. Here, your dedication can make a meaningful difference in building a more inclusive, sustainable future.
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The Faces of UNDP Thailand is a series to echo the voice of UNDP staff who support UNDP and the community to advance the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Give us 3 words that describe UNDP Thailand: Impactful, Inclusive, RespectedSuparnee Jay Pongruengphant, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Advisor