My name is Jason, and I was born in a small village called Kan Bae in southern Shan State. I come from a large family, six sisters and seven brothers, and I am the youngest son. My parents have been farmers all their lives.
Growing up, I attended primary school in my village, which had only 73 households. Since there was no middle or high school nearby, I had to continue my education in another village 4.6 miles away. My family could not afford even the most basic transportation, so I walked to school every day. I was determined to do well for my family and my country, and I worked hard to achieve good grades.
By my final year of high school, the headmaster had arranged for me to stay on campus, and my teachers helped me prepare for the matriculation exam.
I passed the exam with the highest marks in the school and one distinction. With those scores, I attended Taunggyi Education College, completing a two-year certificate course.
Wanting to continue further, I qualified for university and, after three years of hard work, graduated from Sagaing University of Education. I then pursued scholarship opportunities for a Master’s Degree in education and attended various workshops to develop my skills as an educator.
Throughout my studies and after graduation, I participated in training sessions focused on peace-building and critical thinking. Through volunteering, I shared my knowledge about community needs, peace education, and community organizing across diverse communities. I took on a number of teaching and educational management roles, always looking for ways to contribute to education and my community. I began volunteering as a teacher at a local school, offering my services for free.
About Jason
- Age: 28
- Ethnicity: Pa O
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Assumption University
- Master’s, Education
- Graduated
Goals & Dreams
- Have a positive impact through teaching
- Learn to play the violin
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $1,425
- Amount Left To Fund: $0
- Contract Duration: 10 years
- Status: Repaid in Full
Quotable
What Others Are Saying About Jason
It was challenging to support myself without a regular income, but I found meaning in being able to teach and help young people pursue their dreams.
I also worked as an educational consultant for the Pa-O National Federal Council School, using my skills to support education in ethnic areas of Myanmar where access to quality learning is often limited.
I later received a scholarship to study at the International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB) for the SENS 2023 program — an opportunity to learn more about sustainable development and social change than the regular education system had offered me.
Despite my passion and dedication, I encountered a financial obstacle that has prevented me from completing my Master’s of Education program at Assumption University. That is why I reached out to Zomia for a loan to help me finish my studies. I am confident that with the skills and knowledge I will gain, I can help create a brighter future for my community and fulfill the potential of its people.
Written by Jason with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Jason
“I have learned a lot from my encounters with adversity… I’m glad for the chances for personal development that hardship has given me, and I know that these abilities will help me get through any difficulties I may have in the future.”
Kerry Raleigh – Assistant Director, School of English for Engaged Social Service (SENS)
“Jason became a leader within the group. He treated everyone in the program with respect and kindness. Both the work team and his fellow students came to rely on him, like him, and respect him.”