My name is Thiri, born in Si Thar village, a small community in Shwebo, Sagaing, Myanmar. As the eldest of five siblings raised in a traditional Buddhist family, I grew up witnessing the hardships my mother endured to raise us, especially while my father battled alcoholism. These early struggles shaped my belief in the power of education, not only as a means to transform my own life but also to uplift my family and community.
After finishing high school in 2019, I worked as a guide teacher in my hometown for two years, supporting students in their learning. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for inclusive and equitable education. However, my path was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced me to leave my studies at Government Technological College. I returned to my village, where internet and electricity were unavailable, but I refused to give up.
I became a community teacher, continuing to support children in any way I could.
In 2022, determined to keep learning and growing, I moved to Mandalay and began volunteering at the New Teachers Training Center, teaching children from diverse ethnic, cultural, and underprivileged backgrounds. At the same time, I completed two diplomas, one in English from Phaung Daw Oo International University and one in Community Development from Ah Nyar Institute, both offered entirely free of charge. These programs strengthened my communication and leadership skills and deepened my understanding of how to empower marginalized communities through education.
I am currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education at Asia Pacific International University and am proud to be a Daughters Rising scholarship recipient, which supports my tuition. To support myself further, I work part-time as an English teacher at Focus Coaching Center and co-founded an educational platform, Universal Learning Space, which offers free learning resources to youth.
About Thiri
- Age: 23
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Asia-Pacific International University
- Bachelor’s, Elementary Education
- 2nd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become and educator
- Establish an organization to educate women
- Return to a peaceful Myanmar
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $1,875
- Amount Left To Fund: $1,750
- Contract Duration: 10 years
- Status: In School
I also serve as a researcher at Ah Nyar Institute, focusing on gender and educational development, helping raise awareness and contribute to academic projects that uplift women and youth. These experiences have confirmed my purpose: to dedicate my life to education reform and women’s empowerment in Myanmar.
In many rural communities, girls are still discouraged from pursuing education or leadership roles. I want to change that by creating safe, inclusive learning spaces, mentoring young girls, and providing training for teachers and families.
After graduation, I plan to return to my community to train local teachers, advocate for girls’ education, and support parents in becoming active participants in their children’s learning.
My dream is to help build a peaceful, inclusive society where every child, regardless of background, gender, or income, can thrive. I carry not only my own dreams but also the hopes of the children, girls, and families in my village and beyond.
Written by Thiri with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Thiri
“I carry not only my own dreams but also the hopes of the children, girls, and families in my village and beyond.”
Rosa, Academic Dean at Ah Nyar Institute
“Against all odds, Thiri will make it happen.”
