George Orwell once wrote that inequality is “the unalterable law of human life.” When it comes to education, inequality overruns the system — sidelining people of color, ethnic minorities, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds.
In developed and developing countries alike, countless children from ethnic minorities find themselves on the margins. I have always believed that society can be improved through the collective forces of thought, belief, rightful action, and good policy.
Through my volunteer work, I have encountered children who lack access to proper education. Those experiences have made me think deeply about the education system and how I can help build a more equal and just society.
From May 2020 to June 2021, I tutored middle and high school students in English through an online program at a monastic school. The students struggled with basic English grammar due to limited exposure to the language. Getting to know them and their backgrounds deepened my understanding of the barriers young people face.
In Myanmar, many ethnic minority groups are excluded from higher education. The national education system is dominated by the Burmese majority in terms of language and curriculum. Many of my students struggled to speak Burmese because it is not their native language, and that barrier has real consequences in their daily lives.
During a Youth for Youth volunteer program, I encountered a boy weeping quietly in the heat. I asked what was wrong but got no response. A monk nearby explained that the boy was suffering from boils but could not understand my question because he did not speak Burmese. That moment stayed with me — a small but vivid example of how minority voices can go unheard.
About May
- Age: 24
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Bachelor’s, Global Studies
- Graduated
Goals & Dreams
- Work at an NGO
- Travel to Italy
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $4,125
- Amount Left To Fund: $1,450
- Contract Duration: 12 years
- Status: In Repayment
I am privileged within Myanmar society, and I want to use that privilege to help ensure that every ethnic minority has access to equitable and inclusive education. When I began studying at the Pre-Collegiate Program of Yangon, I discovered that Global Studies had a profound connection to my everyday life and to the changes I want to see. Majoring in Global Studies will help me become part of the change my country needs.
After graduating, I plan to return to Myanmar and take on a larger role — whether through social organizations, government, or public-private initiatives. The experiences and skills I have gained through volunteering and my undergraduate studies will give me new perspectives on development, and on the challenges and solutions that lie ahead.
Written by May with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
May
“I have always believed that society can be improved through the collective forces of thought, belief, rightful action, and good policy.”
