I am Morris. I finished high school in 2017 with four distinctions on the matriculation exam. Ever since I was young, I have been fascinated by how different architectural designs make me feel, especially tall buildings and temples. This curiosity inspired me to pursue art and design.
After completing the exam, I found an opportunity to study architecture at TU Hmawbi in Myanmar. During my time there, I created countless sketches and learned essential design principles. I also participated in a Bamboo Workshop with Yanbi_Design_Platform, which expanded my understanding of sustainable materials.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused all universities in Myanmar to shut down, and my academic journey was further disrupted in my third year due to the military coup. Despite these challenges, I never stopped learning and exploring architecture on my own.
I contributed to my community by helping those affected by COVID-19, especially people who lacked access to oxygen and medical supplies.
In early 2021, I joined the Healing Architecture workshop organized by VSoA, which deepened my passion for architecture and its emotional and psychological impact on people’s lives. Later that year, I volunteered at the /SHI exhibition and participated in several international programs, collaborating with architects from around the world and broadening my global perspective on design.
Through these experiences, I realized how architecture can heal — not just spaces, but people’s minds — easing anxiety, stress, and the emotional weight of daily struggles. With this vision, I decided to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at the School of Architecture and Design (SoA+D) in Thailand. My parents used all of their savings to help me enroll as a transfer student. I started in the second-year studio and am now nearing the completion of my third year.
About Morris
- Age: 25
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi
- Bachelor’s, Architecture
- 4th Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become an architect
- Buy a house for my parents
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $8,100
- Amount Left To Fund: $7,325
- Contract Duration: 14 years
- Status: In School
Adapting to SoA+D came with challenges, from different teaching methods to higher expectations for design creativity. I grew tremendously, received good grades, and had the opportunity to learn under an advisor from Zaha Hadid Architects — one of my dream firms.
In April 2024, my father was hospitalized for emergency gallbladder surgery. To cover the cost, my parents had to sell our only car, making it extremely difficult to afford my tuition fees. I applied for financial aid and received a 50% tuition waiver for the current academic year, but we are still struggling to afford the coming year’s fees. My father is still recovering and cannot work, and my mother now holds two jobs to support our family.
I am determined to continue my education. Becoming an architect is not just a personal goal — it is a commitment to creating spaces that heal, inspire, and improve the lives of others. With Zomia’s support, I believe I can complete my degree and help shape a more inclusive built environment for the future.
Written by Morris with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Morris
“I realized how architecture can heal — not just spaces, but people’s minds — easing anxiety, stress, and the emotional weight of daily struggles.”