My name is Julia, and I am a final-year International Business student originally from Hpa-an, a small town in Karen State, Myanmar. My story is not one of extraordinary privilege or opportunity. Instead, it is a story of perseverance, education, and hope for a better future.
Growing up in a rural community, I learned that access to educational opportunities is not equal for everyone. While many students can focus entirely on their studies, financial limitations were a constant reality for my family. Despite these challenges, my parents always encouraged me to view education as the most valuable investment I could make in myself. Their belief in the power of learning inspired me to continue pursuing my goals, even when the path ahead seemed uncertain.
As I progressed in school, I became increasingly interested in understanding how businesses can create positive social impact.
Rather than viewing business solely as a tool for profit, I became fascinated by the concept of social business organizations that use sustainable business practices to solve social and community problems. This interest eventually led me to pursue a degree in international business, where I could develop the knowledge and skills needed to create meaningful change.
Along the way, I sought opportunities to gain practical experience and learn beyond the classroom. I worked as an office admin at Gateway Learning Center, where I supported educational programs and administrative operations. Later, I served as a research and data support intern at Doh Eain, an urban development organization in Yangon.
Through these experiences, I learned how organizations can positively impact communities through education, urban development, collaboration, and responsible management. These roles strengthened my communication, research, and organizational skills while reinforcing my passion for socially responsible business.
About Julia
- Age: 27
- Ethnicity: Pa O
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Rangsit University
- Bachelor’s, International Business
- 4th Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Launch my own social enterprise
- Visit London
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,275
- Amount Left To Fund: $2,275
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In School
However, my educational journey has not been easy. Like many students from Myanmar, I have faced financial difficulties and uncertainty caused by economic and social challenges. There have been moments when I worried about whether I would be able to complete my degree. Managing tuition fees, educational materials, internship-related expenses, and daily living costs has often been a significant burden every semester. Despite these obstacles, I remained committed to my studies because I believe education is the key to creating opportunities not only for myself but also for others around me.
Looking ahead, my goal is to build a career in the social business and sustainable development sector. After graduation, I hope to work in Thailand or elsewhere in Southeast Asia, gaining professional experience in areas such as social business management, corporate social responsibility, stakeholder engagement, and international business operations. I want to develop both the practical expertise and leadership skills necessary to create lasting social and economic impact.
In the future, I also plan to pursue a master’s degree in international trade business or social business. My long-term dream is to contribute to Myanmar’s rebuilding and development by supporting socially responsible businesses and strengthening international business connections. I want to help create opportunities for communities, particularly young people who face barriers similar to those I have experienced.
What defines me most is not the challenges I’ve faced, but the determination to keep moving forward in spite of them. I believe that every opportunity carries a responsibility to help others. Through education, professional growth, and service, I hope to become a positive force for change in my community and beyond.
A loan from Zomia would not simply help me complete my education. It would be an investment in a future social business professional who is committed to using education and business as tools for positive change.
Written by Julia with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Julia
“What defines me most is not the challenges I’ve faced, but the determination to keep moving forward in spite of them.”
