My name is Chris. I come from Pakokku, a small township in Myanmar‘s Magway Division, a region rich in tradition and culture. Though my hometown is warm and peaceful, my life has been full of challenges that have helped shape the person I am today.
From a young age, I enjoyed leading and guiding others. Whether it was choosing games to play with my friends or assigning roles, I found joy in organizing and helping people. This instinct has shaped my dream of becoming a business consultant—someone who advises and supports businesses to grow and succeed.
I was raised by my grandparents and aunt, while my parents lived separately. My mother works as a government officer with a limited income and mainly supports my younger sister. My father, who only completed high school, struggled to find stable work. He opened a small computer and printing shop, but the income was barely enough for our family.
Thankfully, my grandfather—a respected freelance lawyer—had saved enough to support my education. His hard work and support allowed me to complete high school with a GPA of 3.4 out of 4. After graduating, I began teaching English and Physics at private schools, volunteered as an English teacher at a monastery, and worked on improving my own English and computer skills.
I first enrolled in Civil Engineering at the Government Technical Institute in Kyaukpadaung. However, the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted my studies. During that time, I did not want to waste my potential, so I took short courses in management, including HRM, marketing, project management, and financial management. This experience sparked my deep interest in business.
I also volunteered with community organizations and worked as an intern at an NPO, Thuma Yangon, as Assistant Director of the Social Media Department. I later worked with other NGOs, gaining valuable experience in leadership and teamwork. However, because I had only a high school certificate, many people looked down on me. This only made me more determined to continue my education.
About Chris
- Age: 23
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Mae Fah Luang University
- Bachelor’s, Business Administration
- 3rd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become a business consultant or marketing specialist
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,475
- Amount Left To Fund: $2,450
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In School
As Myanmar’s political crisis, inflation, and economic instability worsened, my family decided to send me abroad to pursue higher education. My grandmother sold her gold and some land to help pay for my studies. I chose Thailand’s Mae Fah Luang University and decided to major in Business Administration. I hoped to step out of my comfort zone and gain new knowledge. More importantly, I saw business as a path to a secure future for my family.
Unlike civil engineering, which focuses on technical knowledge, business allows me to strengthen my leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills—qualities I enjoy developing. With Myanmar’s economy in crisis, I want to be part of the solution by learning how to support businesses and bring financial stability to my family. Staying in Myanmar was no longer a realistic option for my education.
Despite financial struggles, I have stayed focused and motivated. I currently maintain a high GPA and actively participate in extracurricular activities. I have hosted events as an MC, competed in university competitions, and represented MFU at the 2024 X-Culture Global Business Week Symposium in Thailand. Working with students from countries like the USA, Canada, and Switzerland gave me valuable international experience and confirmed my passion for global business.
Unfortunately, my family’s finances have reached their limit. My grandfather, who supported me for so long, was diagnosed with throat cancer. He went through 12 rounds of radiation, and the cancer seemed to disappear, but sadly, he passed away in 2023. His passing was heartbreaking for us all and left a deep emotional and financial impact. At the same time, Myanmar continues to suffer from civil war, high inflation, and natural disasters like the recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake. Right now, it is nearly impossible for my family to continue supporting my studies.
This is why I am applying for a loan from Zomia. This support would help me focus on finishing my degree without worrying about financial hardship. Without it, I may be forced to pause my education to work and save money, delaying my goals. For me, this education is more than just a personal dream—it is a key to building a stable future for my family.
After graduation, I hope to become a business consultant or marketing specialist. I want to use my knowledge to help companies grow and, more importantly, support my family and ensure my younger sister receives a good education.
I believe in taking responsibility and making progress, even when life is difficult. With Zomia’s help, I can continue to move forward, grow professionally, and turn my goals into reality. My path has been full of challenges, but I remain determined to succeed—not just for myself, but for my family and my community
Written by Chris with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Chris
“I believe in taking responsibility and making progress, even when life is difficult. With Zomia’s help, I can continue to move forward, grow professionally, and turn my goals into reality. My path has been full of challenges, but I remain determined to succeed—not just for myself, but for my family and my community”
