A passion for nature conservation has brought Parker Allen Chung all the way from the United States to Kosovo, and we are delighted to welcome him to the CNVP Kosovo team through Isla Internships Abroad.

Parker is a third-year Environmental Engineering student at Arizona State University. Originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, he grew up surrounded by some of the United States' most iconic natural landscapes. A lifelong enthusiast of hiking, camping, skiing, and mountain biking, he is driven by a commitment to protecting natural environments for future generations.

Since beginning his internship with CNVP Kosovo, Parker has jumped right into the field of conservation, joining CNVP Kosovo's work on an integrated management plan for Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park. Working alongside the park administration, the Municipality of Peja, NGOs, and other stakeholders, he will be examining management models from U.S. national parks and exploring how successful collaboration between public institutions, nonprofit organizations, and local communities can help strengthen protected area management in Kosovo.

As Parker explains: “I’m passionate about national parks and protecting nature so it can be enjoyed by future generations. The projects CNVP is working on are closely aligned with my own goals, and I look forward to bringing ideas and experiences from the U.S. and learning from the people working to protect nature in Kosovo."

Already inspired by his new surroundings, Parker shares: “The environment here is beautiful, and the national park is worth putting in the work to protect. I’m excited to be part of that effort.”

Outside of work, he has also been enjoying life in Kosovo: “I love the cafés, the sense of community, and how there is always something happening. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains or discovering a new bookstore, everything feels accessible and welcoming.”

We at CNVP Kosovo are excited to have Parker on our team and look forward to the knowledge, enthusiasm, and international perspective he brings to our work.

Welcome to the team, Parker!