Throughout my lifetime, I have faced various challenges. These experiences have shaped me into the person I am today. As a Myanmar national, my hometown is Haling Bwe, located in Karen State. I have five family members: my father, mother, two sisters, and me. Unfortunately, my father passed away in 2007.
I obtained my matriculation certificate in 2006 and subsequently enrolled at Yangon Institute of Economics, specializing in development studies. Having never been to Yangon before, university life was a valuable experience. However, financial constraints posed significant challenges. My two sisters, who worked as domestic workers in Bangkok, provided support for my expenses. Despite their efforts, I still had to work part-time jobs to cover the costs of school materials and transportation. The transportation fees were particularly high due to the university’s location outside the city.
After graduating from the Economic University, I worked at an export-import company in Yangon. However, because the salary was insufficient to support my family,, I decided to seek better opportunities in Thailand.
In early 2011, I arrived in Bangkok and secured a job as a general worker at a shoe shop. Despite limited Thai language skills, I persevered. Unfortunately, the job did not last long due to communication barriers. This experience highlighted the importance of language proficiency.
To improve my language skills, I enrolled in free language classes offered by BEAM Education Foundation. This proved to be a turning point in my life. I attended English language classes in the morning and basic computer classes in the evening. After six months, I enrolled in a TOEFL course at EPOP, an online learning center.
While studying, I also volunteered to help other migrant workers with basic computer skills and information about education. Having a university degree, I had always dreamed of continuing my studies. However, due to my family’s circumstances, I believed this dream was unattainable. My volunteer work at BEAM reignited my hope and determination.
Currently, I work at BEAM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing higher education, vocational training, and cultural programs to Burmese migrants in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
About Nay Lin
- Age: 38
- Ethnicity: Burmese
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Chiang Mai University
- Master’s, Social Science & Sustainable Development
- 2nd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Improve professional skills of Myanmar’s migrant workers
- Become a musician
- Make a lot of money!
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,250
- Amount Left To Fund: $2,125
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In School
I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the organization’s mission of helping young migrants access higher education.
I have actively participated in various BEAM activities and volunteer experiences. Education holds a significant place in my life. My studies in Development Studies at the Economic University provided me with knowledge of business, society, and international development. I understand the importance of professional skills for individuals and communities.
Myanmar’s development is hindered by the lack of professional skills among its migrant workers. Many migrants work in low-skilled jobs such as farming, waiting, and domestic work. To address this issue, Myanmar needs to focus on developing its human capital.
I believe that I can contribute to Myanmar’s development by pursuing further studies in Sustainable Development. By acquiring advanced knowledge and skills, I can help address the pressing challenges facing my country. Sustainable development requires collaboration among individuals, communities, and governments.
My journey from a small town in Myanmar to a volunteer at a nonprofit organization in Thailand has been one of growth and purpose. Through education, perseverance, and a commitment to social justice, I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to the development of my country.
Written by Nay Lin with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Nay Lin
“As a result of my experience with people in the migrant community, I have seen firsthand how education and support can change lives.”
