09May2025

Making a Difference Building Dreams Creating Impact Saving Lives

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Contacts

HEAD OFFICE:                          548 Market Street,
San Francisco, CA 94104         USA

PROJECT OFFICE:                  Pearl Condo, Bldg A, 15 Fl., Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd.,      Yangon, Myanmar

hello@marykyapfoundation.org

US: +1 415 991 2030                 US: +1 415 799 8282                    MM: +95 9 977 66 7777

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CORPORATE NEWS

Myanmar Premiere of Unbroken Ties aka Myittar Celebrates a Landmark Night of Charity, Cinema, and Community

Myanmar Premiere of Unbroken Ties aka Myittar Celebrates a Landmark Night of Charity, Cinema, and Community

The Mary K. Yap Foundation, in proud collaboration with Mandalay Productions and a network of esteemed B2B corporate partners, successfully launched the Myanmar country premiere of Unbroken Ties aka Myittar—an award-winning film created with a purpose far beyond entertainment. Held at the prestigious Tamada Movie Theater in Yangon, the 780-seat venue was filled with supporters, family members, and special guests, including 80 orphaned children from our partner home, St. Mary’s. Their presence served as a heartfelt reminder of the film’s mission: to amplify awareness and support for Myanmar’s orphaned communities through the unifying power of storytelling.

The red carpet premiere welcomed distinguished members from the Archdiocese of Yangon, Academy Myanmar Award-winning directors, and respected actors and actresses from Myanmar’s entertainment circles. Their attendance elevated the event’s cultural significance and showcased strong intergenerational support for youth empowerment and humanitarian cinema. The event drew the attention of more than 20 prominent media outlets, all eager to document a historic evening dedicated to social impact, artistic achievement, and community unity. Unbroken Ties, aka Myittar, has already garnered critical acclaim internationally, receiving 11 awards across global film festivals—including two Audience Choice Awards—further underscoring its universal resonance and emotional depth.

“We are humbled by the overwhelming response to our Myanmar premiere,” said Peter K. Yap, Executive Director of the Mary K. Yap Foundation. “Unbroken Ties is not just a film—it’s a movement born from compassion. With every scene, we aim to open hearts and raise awareness for orphaned children who deserve hope, love, and a brighter future. This premiere marks a powerful step forward in uniting culture, philanthropy, and cinematic excellence for the greater good.”

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of staff members and volunteers from both the Foundation and Mandalay Productions worked tirelessly to ensure every detail of the premiere evening was filled with joy, hospitality, and meaningful connections. From guest coordination and ushering to technical support and media relations, their efforts created an atmosphere of warmth and professionalism that left a lasting impression on all attendees. The event also served as a platform to announce future collaborations and philanthropic campaigns that will continue uplifting vulnerable communities through education, arts, and sustainable support.

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CORPORATE NEWS

#OrphanRelief Campaign Brings Urgent Aid to Typhoon Yagi Survivors in Taungoo

#OrphanRelief Campaign Brings Urgent Aid to Typhoon Yagi Survivors in Taungoo

In early September 2024, Typhoon Yagi made landfall in Myanmar, unleashing one of the worst natural disasters the country has faced in decades. The storm struck on September 9, bringing torrential rains and widespread flooding that devastated both urban centers and rural communities. Between September 10 and 13, Yagi’s remnants swept through the nation with relentless force, submerging crops and plantations, destroying homes, and displacing hundreds of thousands across 60 townships. The scale of destruction was catastrophic, leaving countless vulnerable children and families in dire need of emergency relief.

Responding with urgency and compassion, the Mary K Yap Foundation’s Orphanage Ambassador, Meme Lwin, and a committed team of in-country volunteers visited three heavily impacted orphanage homes in the Taungoo area. They hand-delivered food, medicine, and emergency donations, providing immediate support and comfort to children who had lost nearly everything. Their presence on the ground during such a critical time reinforced the Foundation’s promise to stand by orphaned communities when they need it most. This mission was a lifeline for those in need and a powerful reminder that no child is forgotten. The team’s dedication inspires hope and resilience in the hearts of the children and caregivers.

Thanks to the swift generosity of donors and the unwavering commitment of the Mary K Yap Foundation’s network of friends and partners, the OrphanRelief campaign raised over USD 3,200 within its first week. These funds played a pivotal role in our early response efforts. Beyond providing aid, the campaign has become a beacon of hope, showing that even in the face of immense hardship, compassion and unity can light the way forward.

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

KKIFF 2024 Asian Premiere of Unbroken Ties Inspires Global Support for Orphaned Children

KKIFF 2024 Asian Premiere of Unbroken Ties Inspires Global Support for Orphaned Children

Kota Kinabalu, Borneo, Malaysia – As part of the 15th anniversary celebration of the Kota Kinabalu International Film Festival (KKIFF) held on September 10, 2024, the Mary K. Yap Foundation, in collaboration with Mandalay Productions—our official movie production partner—proudly premiered the Asian screening of Unbroken Ties, a powerful charity film created to raise awareness and inspire action for the well-being of orphaned children. The screening served as a heartfelt platform to highlight how storytelling can serve as a force for social change, particularly in advancing support for vulnerable communities in Myanmar.

Just a 2-hour and 45-minute flight from Myanmar, Kota Kinabalu offered a fitting setting for this significant occasion. KKIFF Founder Jude Day warmly welcomed the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s Executive Director, Mr. Peter K. Yap, who also served as Executive Producer of Unbroken Ties, along with an inspiring group of guests and festival patrons. In attendance were representatives from Good Shepherd Services, the Kota Kinabalu Women’s Business and Entrepreneur Association, and the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church administration team, all of whom brought a shared passion for humanitarian efforts and regional collaboration. Their presence added great meaning to the event, underscoring the importance of unity, compassion, and cross-cultural dialogue. The evening served as a powerful reminder of how film and community can come together to spark change and foster lasting relationships across borders.

The festival served as a gateway for meaningful dialogue, as leaders and partners explored ways to collaborate with the Mary K. Yap Foundation to strengthen initiatives supporting orphaned children, particularly in Myanmar. From access to clean water and education to emotional and social development, the conversations focused on long-term solutions that foster empowerment and hope. The premiere of Unbroken Ties was not just a cinematic event—it was a powerful call to unity and compassion, rooted in purpose and shared vision.

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Charity in Action: Yangon Bazaar Sparks Support for Orphaned Children

Charity in Action: Yangon Bazaar Sparks Support for Orphaned Children

Yangon, Myanmar – The first annual Charity Bazaar, hosted by St. Augustine Catholic Church, was a vibrant, one-day event filled with compassion, community spirit, and a shared purpose. The Foundation participated with a dedicated booth, connecting with attendees and sharing our mission to uplift orphaned children across Myanmar through our social development programs. The atmosphere was lively and heartfelt, with visitors from diverse backgrounds coming together for a meaningful cause

During the event, the Foundation successfully recruited over 80 new volunteers who expressed genuine enthusiasm for lending their support to a noble cause. These passionate individuals are now part of a growing movement dedicated to supporting the advancement and well-being of orphaned children throughout Myanmar. In addition to volunteer sign-ups, we took the opportunity to proudly promote the upcoming charity film, Myittar, a heartfelt production sponsored by the Foundation in collaboration with our production partner, Mandalay Productions. The film was created to raise awareness and support for children in need.

The bazaar was also a rich gathering of like-minded exhibitors and community members. We engaged with other organizations promoting humanitarian initiatives and enjoyed the warm company of booth operators selling nourishing meals and traditional Burmese delicacies. The day not only strengthened our network of support but also deepened our resolve to build brighter futures for the children we serve.

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CORPORATE NEWS

H20Hope: Campaign Goals for a Healthy Clean Water

H20Hope:  Campaign Goals for a Healthy Clean Water

San Francisco, CA, USA – The Foundation is proud to introduce Campaign 8: H20Hope, a bold step forward in our mission to protect and uplift orphaned children through sustainable access to clean water. Set to launch in 2025, this heartfelt campaign will focus on delivering safe drinking water, enhancing sanitation infrastructure, and promoting hygiene education within orphanages across underserved regions. Our work will begin in Myanmar, where over 100 registered orphanages face daily struggles to access clean water, including eight orphanages we visited over the past year, highlighting the most urgent needs. Clean water is a basic necessity and a gift of dignity, health, and hope for a better tomorrow.

H20Hope is part of our enduring commitment to advancing the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, with a special focus on Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Every child deserves the right to safe, accessible water, yet today, too many orphaned children live with the constant risks of unsafe water and poor sanitation. Through H20Hope, we respond with action and compassion, determined to bridge this gap and build a foundation of health and opportunity for the children who need it most. Our vision for H20Hope is made possible through the spirit of collaboration. By partnering with donors, strategic partners, and caring communities, we can make clean water more than just a dream – it can become a shared reality. More than installing wells or building systems, this campaign will empower orphanages with hygiene education and long-term maintenance support, creating a cycle of resilience and hope that lasts for generations.

With H20Hope, we are doing far more than quenching thirst—we are nurturing futures. Each drop we deliver echoes with the promise of health, opportunity, and a life free from preventable hardship. Together, we can build a world where every orphaned child in Myanmar, and beyond, wakes up with fresh water, renewed hope, and a future filled with endless possibilities.

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CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS

H2OHope: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives

Introducing the Mary K Yap Foundation’s H2OHope Campaign: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives

At the Mary K Yap Foundation, we proudly announce the launch of our groundbreaking H2OHope Campaign: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives Campaign. This visionary initiative represents a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to improving the lives of orphanage communities worldwide. With a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of access to clean and sustainable water, our campaign aims to achieve dual objectives essential for the holistic well-being of these vulnerable populations.

Our primary focus is to establish reliable and safe water sources, ensuring that orphanages have continuous access to clean water for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and other essential needs. We are dedicated to promoting comprehensive water education programs that empower orphanage residents with essential knowledge and skills in water hygiene practices, sanitation, and conservation. Through this multifaceted approach, we strive to create lasting positive change and improve the overall health and quality of life for orphanage communities around the globe.

Key Challenges and Solutions:
  1. Access to Safe and Sustainable Water Sources: One of the critical challenges orphanage communities’ faces is the lack of access to clean and safe water sources. Many orphanages rely on contaminated water, leading to waterborne diseases and health complications among children and staff. To address this challenge, the H2OHope Campaign will work towards implementing sustainable solutions such as water purification systems, well drilling or repairs, and rainwater harvesting systems. By providing reliable access to clean water sources, we aim to improve orphanage communities’ overall health and well-being.
  2. Water Education and Hygiene Promotion: Another critical challenge is the lack of water education and hygiene promotion practices within orphanage communities. Children and caregivers are at risk of waterborne diseases without proper education on handwashing, safe water storage, and basic sanitation measures. Our campaign will focus on educating orphanage communities about the importance of hygiene and sanitation through workshops, training sessions, and educational materials. By empowering orphanage communities with knowledge, we aim to reduce waterborne diseases, improve overall health outcomes, and foster a culture of cleanliness and hygiene.
Our Plan of Action:

The Mary K Yap Foundation and our non-profit partners are committed to taking decisive action to address these water sanitation challenges. Our plan of action for the next three years (covering 2024 to 2026) includes the following work for orphanages in three phases:

      • Collaborating with local communities and experts to assess water needs and implement sustainable solutions.
      • Providing financial support and resources to install water purification systems, repair wells, and establish rainwater harvesting systems.
      • Conducting water education workshops and hygiene promotion campaigns to empower orphanage communities with knowledge and skills.
      • Monitoring and evaluating the impact of our interventions to ensure long-term sustainability and positive outcomes for orphanage communities.

Join us in our fundraising campaign #H20Hope to transform lives through clean water. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of orphaned children and contribute to a healthier and brighter future for all.

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CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS

High School Diploma Program: Empowering Orphaned Students for a Brighter Future

Revamping the Mary K Yap Foundation’s H.S.Diploma Program: Empowering Orphaned Students for a Brighter Future

The Mary K Yap Foundation is proud to announce the retooling of our transformative H.S.Diploma is known as the High School Diploma program for Empowering Orphaned Students.  The program provides innovative after school educational opportunities to every orphaned student from Grade 9 (age 14) to Grade 12 (age 17) in Myanmar. We have organized this program with our esteemed educational partners to address the critical challenges orphaned children face in accessing quality education.

Challenges Faced and Solutions Offered:

One of the critical challenges in Myanmar is the limited access to educational programs, especially for orphanage populations. This challenge represents a significant barrier to orphaned children’s academic and personal growth, limiting their prospects and opportunities. Our H.S.Diploma program offers comprehensive solutions to this shortfall, including financial assistance, proper guidance, training, and after-school tuition classes. These initiatives aim to mold orphaned students into better individuals, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed academically and socially.

The H.S.Diploma Program gives children the guidance they need to navigate their high school years successfully. By providing increased accessibility to educational support, including after-school tuition classes and personalized advice, we aim to accelerate orphaned students’ academic and social advancement during their last four years of high school (Grades 9 to 12). This extra attention ensures they meet the requirements to graduate from high school and prepares them for the challenges of university education.

Grade 12 is a crucial milestone that opens doors to many opportunities. The Mary K Yap Foundation takes pride in providing comprehensive educational support so orphaned students can concentrate on their studies, excel in their exams, and confidently pursue higher education. Our commitment to success is reflected in our close partnership with participating orphanages, selected orphan students, and our dedicated Foundation team. Regular progress reports are available for sponsors and donors who wish to monitor student performance and track progress throughout the program.

Our Plan of Action:
      • Provide financial assistance for orphaned students to access quality education.
      • Offer guidance, training, and after-school tuition classes to support academic and personal development.
      • Collaborate with orphanages and educational partners to ensure the success of the H.S.Diploma Program.
      • Monitor and track students’ progress through regular progress reports and evaluations.
      • Empower orphaned students by equipping them with essential skills and knowledge for academic success.
      • Advocate for increased accessibility to educational resources and infrastructure in orphanages across Myanmar.
      • Foster partnerships and collaborations with sponsors, donors, and stakeholders to expand our programs.
      • Continuously assess and improve the program to meet the evolving needs of orphanages.

We invite you to join us in this meaningful endeavor. If you know of an orphanage or an orphan student who could benefit from our H.S.Diploma Program, please email us at hello@marykyapfoundation.org. Together, we can empower orphaned students and pave the way for a brighter and more promising future.

Board Member’s Business Trip to Myanmar
CORPORATE NEWS

BOD Business Trip to Myanmar

My first visit to Myanmar surpassed all expectations. The warm hospitality, rich culture, and natural beauty left a lasting impression. Excited for its bright future!

 

In a recent corporate news update, we are excited to share insights into the business trip undertaken by our distinguished Board Member, Dr. Jean Luc, to Myanmar, also known as the Golden Land. This trip marked a significant milestone as Dr. Jean Luc explored Yangon for the first time, adding to his extensive travel experience across more than 50 countries.

The journey commenced from the scenic city of Boudreaux, France, where Dr. Jean Luc embarked on a flight that connected him to Singapore before reaching the vibrant city of Yangon. The purpose of his three-day visit was multifaceted, with a primary focus on attending the private screener of “Unbroken Ties,” also known as “Myittar.” This collaborative charity film project between the Mary K. Yap Foundation and Mandalay Productions aims to channel its net proceeds towards benefiting underserved and vulnerable children, especially those in orphanage communities.

Dr. Jean Luc was joined by more than 60 friends and family members, including the Myittar Cast and Crew, led by our Unit Director of Myittar, Legendary Myanmar Academy Winner Actress Grace Swe Zin Htaik, Academy Award Actress Htun Eaindra Bo, Academy Award Winner Director U Soe Moe, Academy Award Winner Director Zaw, along with Chairman, U Kyi Soe Htun of the Myanmar Motion Picture Organization (MMPO), and popular local social media influencers and audience members from ages of eighteen to twenty-four years who joined on an exclusive private screener in Yangon at the Mingalar Gold Class venue hosted by Mingalar Group’s Founder and CEO, U Zaw Min.

 

The itinerary was meticulously planned, featuring strategic meetings with stakeholders such as Legendary Myanmar Academy Winner Actress Grace Swe Zin Htaik, the Unit Director for the Charity Film, the Foundation’s Executive Director, Peter K Yap, and the Program Manager, Meme Lwin to discuss upcoming festival participation in the USA and Europe, and what is needed to amplify the film’s charitable impact further. Other discussions were held in parallel about the prospects of establishing the first union association, the Myanmar Orphan Association (MOA), to unite all the supporters, NGOs, and INGOs under one umbrella to bring awareness to the needs of vulnerable children and communities living under orphanage care.

Dr. Jean Luc’s engagements extended beyond the boardroom to meaningful interactions with local communities during his stay. A notable highlight was his visit to a local Twantay orphanage, where he had the opportunity to connect with over 45 orphaned children. This experience underscored the Foundation’s commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. Furthermore, Dr. Jean Luc actively participated in the launch of the H20Hope Campaign, an initiative championed by the Foundation to promote clean water initiatives. The campaign aligns seamlessly with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, reflecting the Foundation’s dedication to sustainable and impactful philanthropy.

On the last night of Dr. Jean Luc’s stay in Yangon, the atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and celebration as he graciously joined the Foundation team for a memorable evening. The setting was delightful, with the aroma of sizzling meats and savory spices filling the air as everyone gathered for an all-you-can-eat Burmese barbecue feast. Dr. Jean Luc, known for his affable nature and genuine interest in fostering connections, engaged with team members, exchanging insights and stories from their respective experiences during the trip.

Dr. Jean Luc’s business trip to Yangon showcased his global engagement and highlighted the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to meaningful projects that create positive change. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our mission to make a difference in the orphanage communities we serve.

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CORPORATE NEWS

Leadership in Action: Dr. Kouyoumji at Ebenezer Compassion Association

Leadership in Action: Dr. Kouyoumji at Ebenezer Compassion Association

San Francisco, CA, USA – We were deeply honored to welcome Dr. Jean Luc Kouyoumji, one of our esteemed board members, on his inaugural visit to Myanmar. His journey to the Ebenezer Compassion Association—nestled in the remote rural area of Twantay Township, approximately 90 minutes north of Yangon—was a profoundly moving experience that underscored the heart of our mission.

The Ebenezer Compassion Association provides a safe and nurturing home for approximately 55 children from diverse and vulnerable backgrounds, including orphaned children from northern Myanmar and others from surrounding communities. In this haven of care, children are supported through access to education, emotional guidance, and essential daily needs, which help them grow with dignity and hope. Throughout his visit, Dr. Kouyoumji connected warmly with the children, listened to their stories, and took a close and thoughtful look at the association’s needs, particularly regarding access to clean water and mental wellness support. His presence uplifted spirits and brought renewed momentum to our upcoming #H20Hope Clean Water Campaign initiatives for 2025.

Dr. Kouyoumji’s visit affirms our commitment to empowering every child with opportunity, resilience, and care. We are deeply grateful for his passionate support and visionary leadership as we continue building a brighter, more compassionate future together. See Video Highlights #H20HOPE+

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CORPORATE NEWS

The Nine Campaigns: A Unified Movement for Orphaned Children’s Futures

The Nine Campaigns: A Unified Movement for Orphaned Children’s Futures

February 14, 2024 – San Francisco, CA – The Nine Campaigns initiative was created with a clear and heartfelt purpose: to bring lasting hope and meaningful support to orphaned children through targeted, impactful programs. The initiative has been guided by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Focusing on strategic areas of need, Nine Campaigns seeks to bridge critical gaps and lay the foundation for brighter, more secure futures.

At the core of our mission are three educational campaigns—#Each1TeachOne, #H.S.Diploma, and #Road2Digital—which have been longstanding efforts to expand access to learning for vulnerable communities. These programs address educational disparities by equipping children with the essential knowledge and practical skills they need. Through mentorship, high school diploma support, and digital literacy programs, we aim to empower young minds with the tools they need to pursue their dreams and build independent, fulfilling lives.

Beyond education, our commitment extends into social development and nutrition. We proudly champion initiatives like #NourishHope and #TeddyBear4Hold, two campaigns designed to meet children’s emotional and physical needs. Through these efforts, we ensure that children feel loved, supported, and consistently nourished with healthy meals. By nurturing the body and the spirit, we foster a more profound sense of security, emotional well-being, and belonging for those who need it most. Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to launch a new wave of campaigns that continue to expand our holistic support system. New initiatives include #H20Hope, which aims to provide access to clean drinking water; #FirstSeed, introducing sustainable gardens in orphanages; and #LifeLine, which is focused on increasing access to basic vaccinations. In addition, we are proud to introduce #OrphanRelief, a vital campaign dedicated to supporting orphanages during emergencies caused by natural disasters and other crises. By responding swiftly during hardship through our web of active volunteer networks, #OrphanRelief will help protect children’s safety and ensure their essential needs are met when they are most vulnerable.

Together, the Nine Campaigns form a unified movement dedicated to uplifting and protecting orphaned children across all dimensions of their lives. We strive to create lasting change and a future filled with hope through education, nourishment, emotional support, health services, and emergency relief. Every campaign is a testament to the belief that small, consistent efforts can lead to powerful, life-transforming outcomes for the children we serve.