My research interests encompass the fields of mycology, botany, ecosystem services, conservation biology, and their interconnections with human well-being within the domain of biology. Despite the undulating trajectories of life and commencing my academic journey in remote terrains, my enduring passion and determination led me to overcome challenges, resulting in the successful completion of a Ph.D. with highly cited publications. In my continuous 20-year research career, characterized by collaboration with local, regional, and intergovernmental entities, I am committed to using science for community well-being and facilitating knowledge transfer. In the future, this commitment will be more firmly embodied in social, economic, ecological dimensions and, policy nexus in my work.