About Me:
Originally from Myanmar, a developing nation facing many hardships, I was motivated to pursue a PhD in hopes of one day contributing back to my community and its people. My research focuses on how innovative financing models can support community-based tourism enterprises (CBTE) to promote sustainable development and empower local communities. By integrating academic insights with practical applications, I explore how tailored financial strategies can drive equitable growth and enhance the resilience of community enterprises in the tourism sector. My broader research interests include social entrepreneurship, community development, and the intersection of tourism and socio-economic resilience, particularly in politically and economically vulnerable contexts like Myanmar.
Outside of academia, I have over seven years of industry experience working in 360 marketing agencies and multinational firms, where I developed my expertise in strategy development and stakeholder engagement. I am deeply committed to creating actionable insights that bridge theory and practice, inspiring positive change both in the academic field and within the communities I serve.
Research Interests:
Community-based tourism development; sustainable financing models; social entrepreneurship; socio-economic resilience in tourism; decolonization of tourism knowledge.
Education:
Doctor of Philosophy In Marketing (New Zealand) - University of Canterbury [ 2024 - Ongoing ]
Master's Degree In International Markets (Spain) - Rovira i Virgili University [ 2022 – 2023 ]
Bachelor of Engineering (Myanmar/Burma) - West Yangon Technological University [ 2016 – 2018 ]
Bachelor of Technology (Myanmar/Burma) - Kyaing Tong Technological University [ 2011 – 2015 ]
Supervisors:
Senior Supervisor: Richard Aquino
Co-Supervisor: Michael Hall
Associate Supervisor: Girish Prayag
Publications:
Nyo, T. P., Wai, S., Htet, Y. M., San, B. M., & Htwe, W. Y. T. (2023). Navigating economic uncertainty: The effects of exchange rate volatility on business performance in post-coup Myanmar. International Journal of Business Strategy, 23(1), 35–58. https://doi.org/10.18374/IJBS-23-1.4
Why did you choose UC?
I chose to pursue my PhD at the UC Business School because of its strong focus on innovative, interdisciplinary research and its commitment to addressing global challenges through practical solutions. The school’s expertise in sustainable development and community engagement aligns perfectly with my research on financing models for community-based tourism enterprises. Additionally, UC’s supportive academic environment and access to diverse research networks provide an ideal foundation to deepen my understanding and make a meaningful impact in my field.
Best things about study at UC:
The highlights of my PhD journey at the UC Business School include a collaborative academic environment that fosters intellectual growth. Interacting with world-class faculty and diverse peers has refined my research focus, especially in community-based tourism. The school’s emphasis on real-world impact and access to excellent resources has been essential in advancing my work.
