My name is Aeint, and I am from Myanmar. As a child, I was often labeled the “bad kid” — not because I did anything wrong, but because I didn’t fit the mold of a quiet, obedient student. I was loud, curious, and full of energy. I questioned rules and tried new approaches. But I excelled in exams and had a talent for memorizing information quickly, which freed me to explore interests beyond the classroom.
The education system in Myanmar relies heavily on rote memorization. While I didn’t enjoy simply repeating facts, I learned to use my memory skills to succeed in exams and create space for the activities I was truly passionate about. I joined the student council, the scout organization, poetry and essay contests, and leadership workshops. Leading projects and collaborating with peers taught me communication, empathy, and how to inspire others — skills no textbook could provide.
In my first year of high school, I transferred to Victory Education Center in Mandalay, one of Myanmar’s top private schools. I maintained outstanding grades and was awarded a 50% tuition scholarship for my final year. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the military coup.
During those years, I taught myself English and Japanese and prepared for and passed the GED. That achievement opened the door to studying abroad. I chose Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) in Japan, majoring in Marketing. To become a social entrepreneur, I need to understand how to reach people, shape public perception, and create meaningful connections.
After deciding to study in Japan, I found part-time work at a hotel restaurant to support my living expenses. My first professional experience, it was especially challenging given the cultural differences. Everything in Japan is done with precision. I learned patience, communication, and respect for teamwork — and I believe this experience will shape me as a future entrepreneur and leader.
About Aeint
- Age: 21
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University
- Bachelor’s, International Management
- 2nd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become a creative manager
- Build alternative education pathways for Myanmar youth
- Visit Switzerland
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $1,875
- Amount Left To Fund: $1,850
- Contract Duration: 10 years
- Status: In School
Balancing full-time study, part-time work, and independent living in a foreign country has its challenges. But I have become more self-reliant and adaptable, and every small success reminds me why I chose this path.
My vision is to become a social entrepreneur who creates alternative pathways to education for young people in Myanmar. Many talented youth abandon their dreams because society doesn’t recognize their passions as valid forms of learning. I’ve watched aspiring pro gamers, digital artists, and tech innovators give up under pressure to pursue conventional careers. I believe education should unlock each person’s potential and help them find their own path.
My plan is to build platforms and support systems — online hubs, mentorship networks, and community centers — where young people can develop skills, share knowledge, and pursue their passions. Using the marketing, leadership, and innovation tools I gain at APU, I hope to foster a culture in Myanmar where curiosity and passion are valued as highly as traditional qualifications.
Written by Aeint with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Aeint
“With the skills I’m building in Japan and the resilience I carry from my experiences at home, I am determined to help Myanmar’s youth redefine what education can be—and empower them to become leaders in their own right.”