I was born in a village in Arakan State, Myanmar. When I was thirteen years old, both of my parents passed away, and I had to live in a monastery orphanage.
From that age, I had to struggle on my own. It was a difficult time living in a community where most people were uneducated and poor. Being parentless was seen as unlucky and even evil. Because of this, many children my age avoided me, and their parents did not allow them to talk or play with me.
At the age of sixteen, I began to think about finding new opportunities for a better life. I realized that if I stayed and followed the same path as others around me, my life would not change.
Discrimination against poor, disabled, and parentless people was common in my community. Because of this, I became traumatized and lost confidence in expressing my thoughts and doing what I wanted. Living without parents or guardians was extremely difficult, and I often felt lost.
I believed that we can make a difference in our lives, no matter whether we are born rich or poor. In late 2013, I moved to Thailand to create a meaningful change in my life. After studying basic English at Ahrem, I applied to Minmahaw Summer School and was accepted. This became a turning point in my life.
Later, I was accepted to study at Minmahaw School for the 2014–2015 academic year. After graduating, I continued my studies at Australian Catholic University (ACU) in Mae Sot, where I earned a Diploma in Liberal Studies in 2017.
About Khaing
- Age: 31
- Ethnicity: Rakhine
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Rangsit University
- Bachelor’s, Political Science
- Graduated
Goals & Dreams
- Work for an educational NGO
- Help younger generations
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $975
- Amount Left To Fund: $925
- Contract Duration: 10 years
- Status: In Repayment (Late 90)
After graduation, I worked as a volunteer in Mae Sot and in Arakan. Through these experiences, I realized how important education is. It is difficult to create meaningful change with limited experience and informal education. To contribute effectively to my community, higher education is essential.
The world is changing rapidly. Without education and awareness of global trends, it is not possible to improve my community. After working for a year in Arakan, I decided to leave my job and pursue a university degree.
Today, my hometown is affected by civil conflict and urgently needs support from educated people. Despite the challenges, I believe we must continue working for change. One day, I hope my country will become peaceful and prosperous, where children no longer have to grow up as I did.
In my community, many young people share similar dreams. After completing my education, I am committed to working in the education sector to break the cycle of poverty and improve opportunities for future generations.
Written by Khaing with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Khaing
“It would not be a wrong statement if I said that I was born struggling, grew up struggling, and have lived struggling. I grew up as an orphan where being parentless was considered unlucky and evil.”
Khaing
“In my community, there are thousands of young people who have similar dreams as me. I assure myself that I will work in the educational sector after I graduate. I believe I can make a change in my community where people endure the vicious cycle of poverty and lack educational opportunities.”