My name is Rosy. My sister and I were raised on our father’s principle: “No one is obligated to help you; support yourself.” Our parents worked hard to instill confidence and independence within us, and to teach us the importance of helping others.
Born in Naung Htaw village in Shan State, we had to flee due to military tension with ethnic armed groups. We moved into a Karenni refugee camp, where we relied solely on NGO and CBO aid. Despite the difficulties, my parents never complained but saw it as an opportunity for a better life. From them I learned that appreciating what you have can bring you closer to your goals.
After arriving in the camp, I continued my education and found it difficult to communicate with classmates as a Burmese speaker. I persevered by asking questions and dedicating extra time to improving my language skills.
Later, I attended Karenni Community College, studying Computer, Social Studies, Math, and Science. I also gained capacity-building skills such as time management, leadership, and teamwork. One of the most rewarding experiences was serving as team treasurer and being recognized as a member of the best team for two consecutive years.
After graduating with a Computer major in 2015, I learned that my certificate was not recognized by either the Thai or Burmese governments. To pursue further studies, I enrolled in the Minmahaw Higher Education Program, an opportunity that helped me develop my academic abilities and my capacity to respect and adapt to different cultures and beliefs.
After working at Topform company, I returned to help my community, teaching History and English at Seh Theh Learning Center in 2017 to students between the ages of sixteen and twenty. Teaching quickly became one of my deepest aspirations.
About Rosy
- Age: 29
- Ethnicity: Burmese, Karen
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Asia-Pacific International University
- Bachelor’s, Teaching
- Graduated
Goals & Dreams
- Become a teacher
- Visit Italy
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,450
- Amount Left To Fund: $0
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In Repayment
Quotable
What Others Are Saying About Rosy
Three years in the classroom taught me how much I still had to learn, which led me to enroll in a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching at Asia Pacific International University in 2021. The university was not offering on-campus classes due to COVID-19, and electricity and internet disruptions caused by the military coup added to the challenge.
Despite all of this, I worked hard not to miss a single lesson. After one and a half years of online study, I finally arrived on campus and began my sophomore year. I was grateful for every opportunity to interact with students from different countries. I later joined the university’s Myanmar Student Club as vice president, supporting Myanmar students throughout their time on campus.
Throughout my time at university, I have developed a strong understanding of teaching techniques, classroom management, and assessment methods. I have always been proud of how far I have come, from receiving a refugee education to being the first in my family to attend university. Zomia’s support will help me finish my degree and fulfill my lifelong ambition of becoming a teacher in my community.
Written by Rosy with editing assistance from Holland, one of Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Rosy
“My motivation to work as a teacher in my community is motivated by both the satisfaction I get from being an educator and the desire to see others succeed.”