My name is Nann Kyi, and I was born in a small village called Linn Lay in southern Shan State, Myanmar. I come from a community where education is not a priority and most people work as farmers throughout their lives. Despite this, I always had a strong determination to pursue my studies.
Growing up, my family faced additional difficulties due to my father’s struggles with alcohol and gambling, which made it even harder to make ends meet. My siblings had to drop out of school. At the age of ten, I began working as a babysitter to cover my school expenses while attending sixth grade, working evenings, weekends, and holidays. It was a challenging time, but I learned the importance of hard work and perseverance.
When I turned eleven, I had the opportunity to move to Mandalay and attend Phaung Daw Oo Monastic Education High School, which provided free education and accommodation. I embraced this chance with gratitude and worked hard to excel. I successfully graduated from high school on my first attempt, becoming the first person in my family to reach that milestone.
After high school, I wanted to give back to the community that had supported me. I volunteered as a librarian at Phaung Daw Oo Monastic Education High School for over six years, organizing English conversation classes, reading and discussion sessions, and mobile library initiatives. These experiences helped me develop skills in communication, problem-solving, and management.
Due to the ongoing turmoil in Myanmar, I eventually left my country and sought safety in Chiang Mai. With the support of my god-grandfather, I was able to enroll at Chiang Mai University.
About Nann Kyi
- Ethnicity: Pa O
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Chiang Mai University
- Bachelor’s, Social Science & Sustainable Development
- Graduated
Goals & Dreams
- Establish a mobile library
- Travel to Japan
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $3,975
- Amount Left To Fund: $3,475
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In Grace Period
Although the funds were only enough for a year, I am proud to be the first person in my family and among my relatives to attend an international university.
My dream is to establish a mobile library that will bring educational resources to children in my community who would otherwise have none. With my experience as a volunteer librarian and my determination, I am confident in my ability to bring about positive change. A Zomia loan would give me the means to continue my studies and take a meaningful step toward making that dream real.
My journey has been filled with challenges, but I have never let them deter me from pursuing education or serving my community. I am grateful for every opportunity that has come my way, and I plan to make the most of this one.
Written by Nann Kyi with editing assistance from Holland, one of Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Nann Kyi
“I have never let challenges deter me from my pursuit of education and my commitment to my community.”
