All great struggles demand sacrifice. I am Suu, currently pursuing a master’s degree in Gender and Development Studies at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand. As the youngest daughter in a family with four elder sisters and an elder brother, I have always had to carefully consider my family’s financial situation when seeking educational opportunities.
Throughout my life, I have witnessed the profound impact of the persistent poverty gap in Myanmar. Despite this, I have never relinquished my aspiration to continue my education. In 2016, I passed the matriculation exam, earning distinctions in four of six subjects, and earned a place at one of Myanmar’s top universities. I chose to specialize in International Relations at Mandalay University and was awarded a scholarship of one million kyat per year. However, my academic trajectory was disrupted by political upheaval in 2021, just as I was approaching graduation.
Two years later, I re-enrolled as a final-year student at an alternative institution and graduated in March 2025. I was subsequently selected as a Master’s candidate for the August 2025 cohort in the Department of Development Studies at the School of Environment, Resources and Development at AIT.
As a youth advocate, I dedicate my efforts to advancing climate concern, federalism, ethnic development, and intersectionality to promote sustainable development in my region. I have facilitated coordinated action between ethnic minorities and government bodies, and was the sole youth volunteer introducing federalism concepts to the Burma-dominated central region during the Democratic Civilian Government era.
In Lat-Pan-Takhar Chin Ethnic Village, I played a key role in implementing infrastructure projects, including a bridge and a road, as an administrative assistant at the Ministry of Ethnic Affairs, improving transportation and communication for several villages. I also collaborated with a lecturer to monitor the transparency of the Mandalay Regional Parliament.
About Suu
- Age: 26
- Ethnicity: Burmese, Chin, Karen
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Asian Institute of Technology
- Master’s, Gender & Development Studies
- 2nd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become a human rights defender
- Find more time to hike in the mountains
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $3,100
- Amount Left To Fund: $3,000
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In School
My advocacy extended to serving as a youth panelist for the Myanmar LGBTQ+ community, striving to empower rights and inclusion amidst enduring discrimination. I contributed insights on policy challenges concerning LGBTQ+ labor rights, representation in heteronormative education, and exclusion from healthcare services. I also volunteered in Yenangyaung Township’s Green Project, focused on reforestation to mitigate rising temperatures in Myanmar’s dry zone.
Despite facing various barriers and challenges, I remain unwavering in my commitment to community development and good governance. My passion, hope, and professionalism sustain me through sleepless nights and difficult times. I am resolved to continue my journey as a dedicated contributor to human rights and social justice.
Written by Suu with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Suu
“My passion, hope, and professionalism sustain me through sleepless nights and difficult times. I am resolved to continue my journey as a dedicated contributor to human rights and social justice.”
