My name is Joshua. I was born in Myitkyina, Kachin State, Myanmar. I attended No. (1) Basic Education High School in Myitkyina.
I graduated with a B.Sc. (Physics) from the University of Myitkyina. Following this, I completed a Master of Divinity from Kachin Theological College and Seminary.
Due to my roots in Myitkyina and my educational background, I have developed a strong interest in addressing the social needs of my community. I take pride in my involvement in social activities and initiatives. Through many years of social work, I have become increasingly interested in the study of social sciences and have recognized the importance of applying this knowledge to contribute more effectively to community and social development.
When I was a university student in Myanmar, I was actively involved in social advocacy and initiatives. I was selected as the General Secretary of the Myanmar Red Cross Society at Myitkyina University in 2011. During this period, I led First Aid training every three months, organized blood donation programs, and volunteered in many other activities.
On June 9, 2011, the ceasefire agreement between the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the Burmese military (Tatmadaw) collapsed, leading to renewed conflict and the displacement of more than 120,000 Kachin internally displaced persons (IDPs) who fled to safety zones and makeshift camps.
In 2015, my Red Cross team from Myitkyina University visited nine IDP camps together with professors and Kachin State government officers. I also volunteered in IDP camps around Myitkyina by teaching songs, Bible studies, English, and arts programs, and by collecting food and teaching materials for displaced communities.
About Joshua
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Chiang Mai University
- Master’s, Social Science & Development Studies
- Graduated
Goals & Dreams
- Promote peace in Kachin State
- Visit Europe and New Zealand
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,300
- Amount Left To Fund: $0
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: Repaid in Full
Quotable
What Others Are Saying About Joshua
In 2013, I was chosen as the student president of the Universities Christian Fellowship at the University of Myitkyina, where students from different denominations came together for worship during their studies. During that period, I organized students from remote areas to share the Gospel.
In 2016, I was selected as the student president for the students’ fellowship at Kachin Theological College and Seminary. After graduating, I worked as a freelance civil journalist and collaborated with INGOs on local community development projects. From 2016 to 2018, I also worked as the dormitory manager at Kachin Theological College and Seminary.
Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Science at Chiang Mai University, as I believe this program provides strong opportunities to study social science and development in the context of Southeast Asia. I am eager to link my theoretical knowledge with practical development projects and programs in Kachin State.
I believe this program will help me contribute to the development of my country. Upon completing my studies, I hope to commit myself to building social justice and peace in my community. I aim to create an environment where people can coexist with justice and equality.
Due to the long-standing conflicts in Kachin State, my hometown, I want to promote peace and justice in the region. I hope to work as a social worker for underprivileged people in my community and contribute my knowledge as a researcher as much as I can.
Written by Joshua with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Joshua
“I am eager to link my theoretical knowledge with practical development projects and programs in Kachin State.”