Scholar studying supply chain management to enhance access to services in Bhutan
Posted: 25 February 2026
Tashi Dema from Bhutan is studying a Master of Business at the University of Queensland with the support of an Australia Awards Scholarship.
Tashi was featured as the ‘face’ of the Australia Awards promotions in Bhutan for study commencing in 2027. We recently caught up with her to ask about her Scholarship journey, how it has affected her personal and career growth, and what advice she has for prospective applicants.
Why did you apply for an Australia Awards Scholarship?
Australia Awards is a prestigious Scholarship and it has enriched the knowledge base of many developing nations. I was excited when they announced supply chain management—which has become a very demanding field in the service delivery sector, not only for Bhutan but globally—as a priority field of study for Scholarship applicants.
With the ever-increasing demand for services and the rapid development in Bhutan with the expansion of Paro International Airport and the Gelephu Mindfulness City, there is a need for improving efficient planning and delivery, which I will contribute to using my learnings from the supply chain management program. This program will enhance my skills and further deepen my understanding of supply chain management. After completing my course, I will be able to contribute to my organisation’s supply chain and share new methodology to structure an efficient service delivery system. This will eventually support Bhutan’s development goals.
What I really appreciate about the Australia Awards Scholarship is how well it is structured. Starting from the information sessions and pre-departure briefings to the Introductory Academic Program, everything is designed to equip scholars with the knowledge needed to navigate these two precious years. The ongoing support from the Scholarship team and the timely surveys that check on our personal wellbeing are truly comforting and accommodating.
Tashi (second from left) pictured with other Australia Awards scholars at a University of Queensland event.
How has your Australia Awards Scholarship contributed to your personal and professional growth?
I have learnt a lot in just one year. Becoming a student again was not an easy transition, but it pushed me out of my comfort zone. This experience helped me to open my mind and broaden my perspective to new places, new people, a different culture and different ways of thinking.
Although I did not have any prior education in supply chain management, the nature of my position demanded this responsibility. After accruing over 10 years of field experience with the practical reality, the course has expanded my knowledge of how to effectively apply certain management strategies and work plans. It has also given me a fresh education of how the global supply chain sector has moved on with new technologies and digital applications.
Living and studying in a foreign country has helped me build resilience and independence. It has also taught me to appreciate my own efforts in adapting to a new culture and environment. Professionally, I feel more confident in sharing ideas, learning from others and reflecting on my own growth. I will also treasure the connections and networks I have gained through this journey, as they have helped me grow personally and professionally and will continue to guide me in the future. Overall, this journey has been both daunting and rewarding.
University aside, what has your life in Australia been like so far?
Brisbane is a beautiful place, and I enjoy simple things like the 50-cent public transport trips to the beach at the Gold Coast and to the mountain at Mount Coot-tha. As I am the only scholar from Bhutan at my university, I made time to connect with friends and young leaders from other countries. We often meet for barbecues, “bring a plate” of food to share as is the Australian way, meet at parks, and travel together.
I also had the opportunity to attend events such as the Australia Awards Scholars Symposium with the theme From Learning to Leading: Make an Impact, which taught me how important networking is as a leader and how meaningful connections can create long-term impact.
I have received so much from this Scholarship, so I try to give back. I volunteer at my daughter’s school during swimming sessions and help at the tuck shop. I have also joined the Brisbane City Council library network and enjoy visiting different libraries across the city. During my vacation, I registered to volunteer as a brand ambassador for the Introductory Academic Program session for Australia Awards scholars commencing their studies in 2026.
Tashi photographed during an Indigenous art workshop as part of the 2025 Scholars Forum in Brisbane.
After graduating and returning to Bhutan, how do you plan to contribute to your home country’s development?
Air transport plays a vital role in supporting Bhutan’s connectivity, particularly for remote and highland communities where road connectivity and infrastructure development remain limited. Helicopter services are essential for transporting construction materials, essential supplies and equipment to areas that are inaccessible by road.
Upon returning to Bhutan, I aim to apply the practical management, analytical and supply chain capabilities gained through my Australia Awards experience to strengthen helicopter logistics and contingency planning. By improving operational efficiency and service reliability, I hope to support emergency response, infrastructure development and community mobility.
Through this work, I aim to enhance access to services for highland communities and contribute to Bhutan’s inclusive and sustainable development.
Tashi (left) pictured in 2025 with then scholar, now alumna, Aruna Sinchuri.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying for an Australia Awards Scholarship?
My advice is simple: give it a go. I have heard from other scholars that they applied more than twice and did not give up. The process, starting from the English exam, may seem long, but making a checklist really helps. Once you take the first step, the rest lines up on its own.
Make sure to attend the information sessions. The Australia Awards representatives in Bhutan ensure that you understand the process clearly, answer your questions, and help you check your eligibility. Reflect on how you can make a difference in your own field and contribute to our community.
Beyond academics, the Scholarship is a really good learning opportunity that helps you grow personally, build confidence and learn from people around the world. Reaching out to seniors was very helpful for me, and I encourage others to do the same. If I could make it on my first attempt, you can too.