My name is Yu Waddy, and I am currently in the final year of a Bachelor of Computer Science program in the International Program at Rangsit University, Thailand. I was born and raised in Nyaung Shwe, a small town in southern Shan State, Myanmar. I am the eldest daughter in my family and have one younger sister. Due to the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, my family is currently living apart, each of us in different places for safety and survival.
My father used to work in the tourism industry, which was once a thriving sector in our region. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent political instability brought tourism to a complete halt, and for over a year my family had no source of income. Eventually, my father relocated to Myint Kyi Nar, Wine Maw, where he now works in the timber industry selling furniture.
Despite his efforts, his income is unstable and limited. My mother, a retired teacher, receives a pension that barely covers living expenses. To manage costs, my parents rented out our home and moved in with my aunt, doing everything they could to continue funding my education.
Due to the crisis, I was unable to complete high school through the traditional path. Instead, I independently earned a GED during a gap year before university. During that time, while my parents saved for my tuition, I supported other students preparing for the GED and began teaching myself Computer Science through free online resources. These experiences deepened my interest in the field and strengthened my commitment to higher education.
Now, as I prepare to begin my final year, my family is facing its most severe financial hardship yet. My father’s work has come to a complete halt, and we are no longer in a position to borrow money as we have in previous years. Without external support, I am at serious risk of being unable to complete my degree.
About Yu Waddy
- Age: 21
- Ethnicity: Burmese, Intha, Shan
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- Rangsit University
- Bachelor’s, Computer Science
- 3rd Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become a full-stack developer
- Visit Italy
- Travel the world with a backpack
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,775
- Amount Left To Fund: $2,475
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In School
I am currently pursuing a paid internship with a Singapore-based company operating in Thailand. If selected, it will be a crucial step toward building my career. After graduation, I plan to work as a full-stack developer in Bangkok — with the goal of not only supporting my family, but creating opportunities for others facing similar challenges.
The Zomia loan would allow me to complete my final year and pursue my internship, paving the way for a stable and meaningful future. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and using my education to contribute positively to my community and to others in need.
Written by Yu Waddy with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Yu Waddy
“My goal is not only to support my family, but to create opportunities for others facing similar challenges.”
