My name is Moe, and I am from Myanmar. I am currently studying for a Master’s degree in Media Design at Keio University in Japan. I grew up in a small city called Mogok, where there were very limited opportunities to explore art, design, or digital media. My childhood environment was focused more on practicality than creativity, and I did not have access to creative mentors or formal training.
My first connection to creativity came from watching Japanese anime, especially Inuyasha and films by Studio Ghibli. I was deeply moved by how emotions and stories could be expressed visually, even without many words. I began drawing scenes that inspired me, and over time, this became a natural habit. Looking back, this was the starting point of my interest in art and design, and also the reason I dreamed of studying in Japan.
As I grew older, this early inspiration shaped many of my decisions.
I chose Japanese Studies as my undergraduate major to better understand the culture behind what had influenced me. Through learning the language and culture, I developed a strong appreciation for Japanese design values such as simplicity, emotion, and storytelling. This made me realize that design is not only about aesthetics, but also about communication and connection.
During my undergraduate studies, I served as class president and was recommended for a competitive position at the Japan Foundation in Myanmar. As a Senior Program Coordinator, I supported exhibitions, cultural events, and workshops, where I saw how design and communication can bring people together and create meaningful shared experiences.
Following that, I worked as an intern illustrator at Creanova, a design organization where I collaborated with diverse clients on visual projects. I learned the importance of understanding user needs, communicating ideas visually, and applying creativity in practical ways. This internship confirmed my desire to pursue a career that connects creativity with broader social impact.
About Moe
- Age: 28
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Keio University
- Master’s, Media Design
- 2nd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become an entrepreneur or launch a startup
- Visit Europe
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $5,950
- Amount Left To Fund: $5,950
- Contract Duration: 12 years
- Status: In School
In 2023, I started my own clothing brand, which pushed me to turn my creativity into real-world impact. I learned how to build a visual identity and connect with audiences. However, due to the civil conflict in Myanmar, I had no choice but to stop. Transportation disruptions and frequent electricity shortages made it impossible to continue, and my family was forced to relocate for safety. Eventually, I made the difficult decision to move to Thailand.
In Thailand, I worked as a Creative Director and Planner at Post Pendamonium. Through this role and my connection with my professor, Matthew Waldman, I was introduced to circular design and sustainable thinking. Professor Waldman is leading an upcycling project in collaboration with Mizuno, and I was selected to participate as a researcher. This was a key reason I applied to Keio University, so I could further develop my skills and contribute to such projects.
For the past five years I have supported myself through full-time work and my own business, building independence and resilience. As a master’s student, my studies now require my full attention. I currently work part-time, but my income covers only basic living expenses.
My family is also facing serious financial difficulties. Since 2022, the civil conflict has affected their stability, and in 2024 escalating violence forced them to relocate. Around the same time, a major earthquake in Mandalay caused our home to collapse.
My goal is to build a career in Japan and use design, especially sustainable and circular approaches, to create meaningful impact and support communities in Myanmar and beyond.
Written by Moe with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Moe
“I was deeply moved by how emotions and stories could be expressed visually, even without many words.”