Jessica Armstrong

Japan and Southeast Asia Instructor

B.A. Science with First Class Honors in Ecology – The University of New South
Wales

M.S. Sustainability – The University of Sydney

Growing up between Thai-Chinese and Australian cultures, Jessica naturally bridges Eastern and Western ways of knowing. Her background has shaped a lifelong commitment to cross-cultural understanding, environmental stewardship, and community-driven action.

Jessica has spent extensive time living and working across Southeast Asia, contributing to projects in sustainable agriculture, river management, biodiversity conservation, and eco-tourism. In 2016, she began her journey with Dragons, working as an instructor facilitating cultural immersion programs in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, and Myanmar. Her role evolved to managing Dragons’ student programming across Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa, further deepening her skills and global engagement.

After thirteen years abroad, Jessica now calls Sydney, Australia home, where she works in threatened species policy. Outside of work, she is often found exploring local bush trails, dancing whenever music calls, and gathering loved ones around a home-cooked meal. A passionate advocate for nature, positive psychology, and the healing power of compassion, Jessica believes true change stems from connection – to each other, to place, and to purpose.