admin – Mary K Yap Foundation

December 7, 2025

Sustainable Bamboo E-Learning Centers for Orphanage Communities

Bamboo stands out as a cost-effective, abundantly available, eco-friendly, and fast-to-build material.”

December 7, 2025 – Bago, Myanmar – The visit to the bamboo treatment facility in Bago was an eye-opening experience that expanded our understanding of how traditional materials, when combined with proper treatment and technical knowledge, can meet modern infrastructure needs. Seeing firsthand how bamboo and wood are treated to withstand insect damage, moisture, and environmental stress revealed the real possibility of extending the lifespan and usability of these materials far beyond common assumptions. This approach transforms bamboo from a temporary solution into a reliable construction material suitable for long-term, multi-purpose structures—an important consideration for community-based learning facilities.

For the Mary K Yap Foundation, this visit directly supports our ongoing planning for the orphanages we serve across Myanmar. The Foundation envisions the development of computer-aided E-Learning Centers within orphanage compounds—safe, functional spaces that can accommodate 15 to 20 students at a time. These centers are designed not only for digital learning but also for flexible use, including tutoring, skills training, and community education. The durability achieved through bamboo treatment makes it feasible to build structures that can evolve with the needs of the children and the communities they serve.

Prototype designs and built by Housing NOW

This initiative is a key component of the Foundation’s 10-year vision to establish 50 E-Learning Centers throughout Myanmar. Achieving this scale requires solutions that are both financially and environmentally sustainable. Bamboo stands out as a cost-effective, abundantly available, eco-friendly, and fast-to-build material, making it suited for wide deployment in rural and semi-urban areas. By incorporating bamboo into our construction strategy, we can significantly reduce costs while maintaining quality, allowing donor contributions to reach more children and communities over time.

Bamboo Treatment Testing Center

Borax-Boric Acid Treatment Tank

Bamboo Heat-Treatment Kilns

Bamboo offers a rare combination of strength, sustainability, and accessibility. When properly treated, it allows us to build learning spaces that are resilient, affordable, and deeply connected to local environments—exactly what orphanage communities need for long-term digital education.”

Dr. Jean Luc Kouyoumji

World Bamboo Congress Ambassador and Board Member of Mary K Yap Foundation

In line with this vision, the Foundation plans to work closely with local bamboo contractors and skilled craftsmen, supporting local livelihoods while ensuring that construction knowledge and ownership remain within the communities themselves. This collaborative approach not only strengthens community capacity but also promotes long-term sustainability, self-reliance, and locally driven development outcomes.

Proposed Build of Quantities for Bamboo Housing Unit (1x Unit)

This work is fully aligned with the Mary K Yap Foundation’s #Road2Digital campaign, which aims to promote inclusive digital learning opportunities for children living in orphanages. By integrating sustainable materials with digital infrastructure, the Foundation advances multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals championed by the Board, including SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Together, these efforts reflect a comprehensive approach—building not just structures, but resilient pathways to education, opportunity, and a more sustainable future for Myanmar’s most vulnerable children.

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By admin

CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS

December 6, 2025

Taungoo Return: Orphan Emergency Relief Completion

This return visit marked an important milestone—one year later—in ensuring that pledged support reached those most affected.”

December 6–7, 2025 – Taungoo, Myanmar – In early December 2025, we returned to Taungoo, a city approximately four hours from Yangon, to complete the final phase of emergency relief assistance following the devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi in September 2024. The typhoon had a profound impact on vulnerable communities in the region, particularly orphaned and at-risk children whose daily routines, education, and living conditions were severely disrupted. This return visit marked an important milestone—one year later—in ensuring that pledged support reached those most affected.

The total contributions raised for Typhoon Yagi relief amounted to USD $3,100, made possible through the generosity of friends and family as part of the Foundation’s #OrphanRelief campaign. Of this amount, USD $800 was distributed immediately in 2024 to address urgent needs in the aftermath of the storm. The remaining USD $2,300 was carefully carried forward into 2025 and distributed during our return to Taungoo on December 6 and 7, ensuring continued support for recovery efforts as communities worked to rebuild stability and long-term resilience initiatives.

The Chidlren from Chit Myittar, Taungoo

The aftermath of the typhoon continued to affect children’s access to education and safe shelter well into 2025. At Chit Myittar Orphanage, flooding caused structural damage that forced 45 children to evacuate to a nearby temporary shelter, interrupting their schooling and daily routines for weeks. The damage to sleeping quarters and communal spaces underscored the vulnerability of these facilities to extreme weather events. Meanwhile, at the Sacred Heart Home, which houses 60 girls, floodwater destroyed sanitation facilities, including toilets, creating urgent health and hygiene challenges that required immediate attention.

Fr. William of St. Alosius Children’s Home

Khun Thoe Yu, Directorof Chit Myittar Orphanage

Sister Sanitina, St. Anthony Children’s Home

Broken Rice Cooker

New Rice Cooker being Purchased

Boys Transporting New Rice Cooker

During our visit, funds were distributed directly to three partner institutions in Taungoo, with the support and coordination of local leaders. We met with Khun Thoe Yu, Director of Chit Metta (Chit Myittar) Orphanage, who outlined the ongoing needs of displaced children; Father William, representing the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, which oversees St. Aloysius Children’s Boarding Home; and Sister Santina of St. Anthony Children’s Home, who continues to provide care and stability to children affected by the disaster. Each institution received support aligned with their most pressing post-typhoon recovery needs.

Reflecting on the impact of the assistance, Father William shared how the funds would provide tangible relief for the boarding home:

The support we received will allow us to replace a large rice cooker that was damaged during the flooding. This may seem simple, but it is essential for preparing daily meals for the children. We are deeply grateful for this continued support, even a year after the disaster.”

These moments reaffirmed the importance of sustained engagement beyond immediate emergency response, highlighting the need for continued presence and commitment. They underscored our responsibility to remain involved even after initial relief efforts concluded. This approach ensures that recovery reaches the children who need it most—long after the headlines have faded.

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

November 30, 2025

Cinema with a Cause: Uniting for Sustainable Impact

At the Culture and Creative Industries Forum, Cinema with a Cause showcased the transformative power of storytelling when creativity is guided by purpose.

November 30, 2025 – Yangon, Myanmar – At the Culture and Creative Industries Forum, Cinema with a Cause showcased the transformative power of storytelling when creativity is guided by purpose. The session featured Mr. Peter K. Yap, Executive Director of the Mary K. Yap Foundation and Producer of the award-winning film Unbroken Ties, who took the stage to share a compelling success story of how cinema can serve as a bridge between art, compassion, and sustainable social impact.

Addressing an engaged and diverse audience, Mr. Yap illustrated how the Foundation supported a cinematic project that goes beyond entertainment—one that aligns directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Through authentic storytelling rooted in empathy and human connection, Unbroken Ties demonstrated how creative works can raise awareness, inspire action, and generate meaningful outcomes for vulnerable communities, particularly orphan children experiencing the magic of cinema for the first time. His message resonated strongly with the audience, inspiring many to envision how their own creative pursuits could drive positive social change

#The Culture and Creative Industries Forum is a flagship initiative fully funded by the French Government and organized by the French Institute of Myanmar in collaboration with the French Embassy in Yangon. The program is designed to support and empower young Myanmar entrepreneurs across the creative sectors, including dance, music, singing, webtoon creation, digital media, and storytelling. By bringing together emerging talents and industry practitioners, the Forum provides a platform for creatives to share their success stories, exchange ideas, and explore pathways to sustainable growth within the creative economy.

Stories have the power to move hearts, but when they are created with compassion and responsibility, they can also change lives. I encourage every young creativity to align their talents with purpose and to use storytelling as a force for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” As Mr. Yap concluded in his remarks

In this collaborative and forward-looking environment, the work of the Mary K. Yap Foundation stood as a powerful example of responsible and impact-driven creativity. The Foundation’s support of a successful, socially conscious film encouraged young creatives in attendance to think beyond artistic expression alone—to consider how their work can contribute to the broader global agenda.

By admin

CORPORATE NEWS

November 16, 2025

‘Art is my voice” is my way to Sketch and Hope

The Mary K. Yap Foundation proudly kickoff its inaugural #SketchandHope program, part of our inspiring “Art Is My Voice” campaign for the underserved children.

On November 16, 2025, the Mary K. Yap Foundation proudly launched its first Sketch and Hope art program at the Galilee Foundation Church and Children’s Home for Orphan Youths in Shwe Pyi Thar, Myanmar—an inspiring milestone in our mission to empower orphaned children through education, creativity, and emotional development.

This inaugural program welcomed 38 children, who spent the day exploring drawing, painting, and imaginative expression under the guidance of distinguished instructors: Artist Than Thar, Artist Han Thar, and Artist May San.

Art is more than a creative activity—it is a powerful tool that helps orphaned and disadvantaged children build confidence, process emotions, and discover their inner strengths. Through color, shapes, and storytelling, children learn to communicate feelings they may not yet have the words to express. Creative exercises strengthen emotional resilience, improve focus, reduce stress, and encourage problem-solving and self-belief. During the program, many children proudly shared their artwork for the first time, demonstrating how an open, supportive environment can unlock courage, curiosity, and hope.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Pastor Saw Pyae Wa, Founder of the Children Development Center since 2015, for warmly welcoming our team. This marks our third community engagement with Pastor Saw, each one bringing renewed excitement and joy to the children under his care. Meme Lwin, our Orphanage Ambassador, expressed the significance of this return visit, sharing:

Every time we return, the children’s faces light up with recognition and comfort. It shows them that they are not forgotten—our presence reminds them that they are valued, supported, and deeply cherished.”

The Foundation is also deeply grateful to Mr. Christope Felix, a French philanthropist who has lived in Myanmar for more than three decades. His generosity and compassionate presence played a pivotal role in making this milestone possible. We also extend sincere thanks to our Intern Bethany Snyder from Pennsylvania, USA, who traveled to Myanmar with the heartfelt intention of encouraging and inspiring orphaned youth. Reflecting on her experience, Bethany shared,

Their smiles reminded me that creativity is a universal language—one that brings hope, healing, and connection no matter where we come from.”

Our appreciation further extends to our three dedicated artists, whose passion and guidance created a nurturing and memorable learning environment for every participant. Their commitment to using art as a bridge to confidence and imagination enriched the entire experience.

This initiative underscores the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—promoting Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, Reduced Inequalities, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and Partnerships for the Goals. The generous funding that powers the Sketch and Hope initiatives is made possible through the cherished support of our friends, family members, and business partners, whose compassion enables the Foundation to respond swiftly to essential needs and expand educational access for children in care.

Looking ahead, the Foundation plans to establish a sustainable, ongoing Sketch and Hope learning program at the Galilee Foundation Church and Children’s Home for Orphan Youths, ensuring consistent access to meaningful art education for disadvantaged children. Together, we remain committed to nurturing creativity, unlocking potential, and building opportunities that can transform young lives for generations to come.

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By admin

CORPORATE NEWS

October 24, 2025

Inspiring Hope Through First-Level Computer Learning

The Foundation proudly announces the first successful #Road2Digital alliance with Alpha Education Center

October 24, 2025 – San Francisco, CA, USA – The collaboration was made possible through the introduction of Monsieur Christophe Félix, a long-time French philanthropist residing in Myanmar, and his partner Valérie, both of whom share our commitment to expanding access to education.

Founded by Ms. Kim Hnam, a Chin national and Dagon University graduate, Alpha Education Center has provided care and education to underprivileged children for over a decade. Located in Twantay Township, about 50 kilometers from Yangon, the center houses and supports 18 children alongside Ms. Kim’s family, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages both academic and personal growth.

Through the #Road2Digital initiative, the Foundation—together with KMD Computer Learning Center, a leader in computer education with over 30 years of experience—conducted a three-day basic computer course for 10 students aged 12–17, with participation from a headmaster and Pastor Daniel Van Lal Suan from Joyful Orphanage. Meme Lwin, the Foundation’s Volunteering Program Manager, stayed on-site throughout the program to ensure that lessons delivered by KMD’s professional instructors were accessible and easily followed by all participants.

Despite challenges such as heavy rains and intermittent power outages, the program successfully introduced essential digital skills, including MS Office, internet navigation, and email communication, inspiring confidence and curiosity in technology.

The Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Philip Charlesworth of the USAID-funded Agriculture and Food Systems Development Activity (ACDI/VOCA), our B2B partner Mandalay Productions Myanmar, and Ms. Meme Lwin for their generous donations of laptops and air conditioners, which made the computer sessions both possible and comfortable for the children. We also extend special thanks to Mr. Jay Edwin, one of our dedicated Country Orphanage Ambassadors, for his support in issuing the Certificates of Achievement to students who successfully completed the three-day training course. These collective contributions play a vital role in advancing the Foundation’s mission to empower orphanages with practical learning resources and greater digital access.

One participating student reflected,

“Before this course, I was afraid of using a computer. Now, I feel confident, and it feels like my world is much bigger. I can see new opportunities for learning and for my future.”

This initiative underscores the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable access to quality education. The generous funding that powers the #Road2Digital initiatives is made possible through the cherished support of our friends, family members, and business partners, whose compassion enables the Foundation to respond swiftly to essential needs and expand access to education for children in care.

Looking ahead, the Foundation plans to establish a sustainable computer learning program at Alpha Education Center, ensuring continued access to digital education and empowering the next generation to share their knowledge within their local communities.

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3RD DAY GRADUATION

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CORPORATE NEWS

August 2, 2025

Emergency Support for Agape Child Care Home

The Mary K. Yap Foundation is delighted to share our ongoing partnership with Agape Child Care Home”

Hlegu, Yangon, Myanmar – Agape Child Care Home is a respected organization that has been serving poor, vulnerable, and fatherless children for more than 25 years in Myanmar. Established with a mission to defend and uplift disadvantaged children, Agape Child Care Home has become a safer haven where love, care, and moral guidance are provided to those who need it most. Located in East Dagon Township, the home nurtures dozens of children who come from challenging family and social circumstances, ensuring they receive not only shelter and nutrition but also emotional and spiritual support that helps them rebuild their sense of belonging and confidence.

Our collaboration with Agape Child Care Home began in 2024 through the #FirstMovieExperience for Orphaned Children Initiative, one of the Foundation’s flagship programs designed to foster creativity, imagination, and social confidence among children from orphan care communities. During that event, Agape’s children were among the 23 orphanages, totaling more than 1,300 orphaned youths who experienced a day of joy and discovery through film — a project that continues to symbolize our commitment to using creative activities as tools for emotional growth and community building.

The relationship between the Foundation and Agape grew from that experience, forming a foundation of mutual trust and shared vision for empowering the next generation of orphans and vulnerable youth.

Earlier this year in May, the Executive Director of Agape Child Care Home, Mr. K.K. Kap, reached out to the Mary K. Yap Foundation in the midst of a serious emergency situation. The shelter that serves as both the boys’ dormitory and the main dining hall had suffered extensive damage caused by severe wind and heavy rainfall. The roof structure was nearly torn apart, leaving the children dangerously exposed to the elements during Myanmar’s rainy season. At that time, forty-five children were residing in the home — thirty-five boys and ten girls, of whom twenty-four were orphans. The living conditions quickly became unsafe, and the Agape team urgently appealed for immediate support to ensure the children’s health and security.

True to our mission of bringing hope, dignity, and protection to orphaned children, the Mary K. Yap Foundation responded immediately under our #OrphanRelief Emergency Aid Program. This initiative was created to deliver rapid, practical relief to orphanages and childcare institutions during natural disasters, emergencies, or times of urgent need. The #OrphanRelief campaign was originally launched in September 2024, during the devastating Typhoon Yagi, when the Foundation mobilized emergency assistance to support orphanage communities affected by flooding and property damage. Since then, the campaign has evolved into one of our core humanitarian outreach programs, symbolizing resilience and unity in times of hardship.

The Emergency reconstruction work for Agape Child Care Home began on May 24, 2025, with the first phase focusing on replacing the shelter’s damaged rooftop and reinforcing the structure. Once the roof was secured, the project continued with the installation of new flooring, ensuring a safer, cleaner, and more comfortable living environment for the children. The work was successfully completed on June 28, 2025, marking a significant milestone in restoring safety and normalcy to the home. The project site is located in Hlegu Township, approximately 45 kilometers northeast of Yangon, or about a 1.5-hour drive depending on traffic and route. The renovated shelter now provides a secure and dignified space for young, orphaned children, allowing them to dine, study, and sleep peacefully regardless of the weather conditions.

The Foundation generously covered the full cost of materials and labor for this crucial project, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to stand beside orphan care communities whenever they face urgent challenges. Through this impactful act of support, we not only repaired a damaged building but also helped rebuild confidence, safety, and a lasting sense of stability for the children who proudly call Agape their home.

Reflecting on the impact of the Foundation’s support, Mr. K.K. Kap, Executive Director of Agape Child Care Home, expressed heartfelt gratitude:

“Your generous donation was such a great help for us, whereby the children are under secure and able to rest with no worry for the leaking roof and the muddy floor.”

At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we believe that every child deserves safety, care, and the chance to dream without fear. Our work through the #OrphanReliefs Emergency Aid Program continues to provide hope and immediate assistance to orphanages in need across Myanmar, strengthening the social fabric that supports our nation’s most vulnerable youth. The generous funding that powers the #OrphanReliefs initiatives is made possible through the cherished support of our friends, family members, and business partners, whose compassion enables the Foundation to respond swiftly and effectively whenever disaster strikes.

We invite all caring individuals, organizations, and partners to join us in this journey. Your contributions and collaboration can help expand the reach of our #OrphanRelief initiatives, ensuring that no orphaned child is left without shelter, security, or hope. Together, we can continue to bring light and resilience to the lives of those who need it most.

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By admin

TESTIMONIES

July 8, 2025

In My Own Words by Teacher Cici

Somehow the miles between us don’t seem to mean as much, when special thoughts, wishes, and encouragements can help us keep in touch.”

Your Loving Teacher Cici

“A cart pulled by two moves smooth steadily and perfectly! So I’ll begin my autobiography from the time I became a widow with six kids to feed, cloths, and educate. To be able to make ends sure, I reigned from my school teacher’s job and gave English Language tuition to individuals so that my income would be double up. I never shared my difficulties with them (my kids) fearing that they’ll be upset. I stood firm and took every burden alone.

I never shared my difficulties with them (my kids) fearing that they’ll be upset. I stood firm and took every burden alone. After a day’s fatigue, I’m welcome to fling my whole self into God’s arms, worries anxieties, doubts, questions as well as praises and thanks giving I prayed hard and everything went according to plan. All my troubles are small compared to the Lord’s infinite wisdom and power so I must admit that God was my one and only supporter to help me walk my tedious journey. As times passed, my kids too were educated to be able to earn a living for themselves.

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#God is great to live in comfort about the high house rents, my company chairman were I was teaching English Language to his staff. He gave me a bonus and that was how I bought a house. I trusted the Lord with all my heart and soul. I’m now 88 years old, still hail and hearty, active and physically fit to continue my teaching. My duty towards my kids are over, I have one unmarried daughter living with me at present. I have 13 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. I prayed and prayed to God to show me how I should serve for him.

Apart from my teaching with pay, I’m doing a charitable job by teaching 10 orphans. I should say 1 or 3 are fatherless and some are motherless and can’t afford to educate or feed. I’m teaching them free of charge. They attend the State School. My English speaking course will be an addition to the studies for their future.

I have served God in many ways I taught the Sunday school kids. When mothers from the districts came to attend a bible study course, I gave them an English Language Course also for youths who was training to be vicars from various towns in Myanmar attending a religious seminar. I included my English Language course to sum up. I’m ready to serve the Lord in any kind of situation fit for my age.

Teacher Cici

Dated June 20, 2017”

The Board of Directors of the M.K.Y Foundation would like to extend our tribute to our beloved Orphanage Ambassador, Teacher Cici Samuels, who passed away at the age of 96 on July 2, 2025 in Myanmar.

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CORPORATE NEWS

June 24, 2025

A Warm Tribute to Danny N. Mainoo

The Board of Directors of the Mary K. Yap Foundation would like to extend a tribute to our cherished and respected advocate for orphaned children, Danny Naasei Mainoo, Orphanage Ambassador, who passed away at the age of 76 on June 15, 2025, in Ghana.

OOur partnership with Danny Nanasei Mainoo began with a friendship rooted in shared values and a long-standing commitment to service. Our Board Member, Joseph Jospeh, and Executive Director, Peter K. Yap, had the honor of knowing Danny since 1999—over 25 years of mutual respect and friendship. Danny was not just a colleague but a visionary leader who transformed Clearcel Ghana from a modest contractor specializing in cell site construction into a national leader in shorthaul bridge solutions across riverbanks. His innovation and drive connected isolated communities, overseeing the development of more than 20 bridges that drastically reduced travel time and opened access to essential services and opportunities.

When Danny joined our Foundation as an Orphanage Ambassador in 2022, he brought with him not only his executive expertise but also a deep compassion for underserved children. Over the past three years, he championed access to clean water for orphanage communities—a cause he carried with great urgency and commitment. His leadership extended beyond infrastructure; he became a messenger of hope for children who had no voice. Danny did not simply advocate for change; he made it happen, tirelessly pushing for better conditions, improved health, and renewed dignity for vulnerable youths in Ghana and beyond.

#Danny’s presence at the Royal Seed Home in Ghana left an unforgettable mark. He was not only a representative of our Foundation but a fatherly figure to the children—a symbol of care, consistency, and encouragement. His ability to connect on a personal level gave the children a sense of belonging and worth. Whether helping to install a water tank or simply sharing a meal, Danny’s involvement was hands-on and heart-forward. The more than 300 children impacted by his kindness carry forward his legacy in their smiles, their confidence, and their dreams.

As one of our fourteen ambassadors representing nine countries, Danny stood out for his humility and undivided commitment to service. He set a powerful example for what it means to give back—not out of obligation, but out of love. He lived by action, not words, always choosing to lead by doing. His dedication has strengthened the very core of our Orphanage Ambassador Program and left a standard for others to aspire to. Danny leaves behind his devoted wife, accomplished children, and cherished grandchildren who shared in his mission and supported him as he poured his heart into uplifting others.

Danny’s passing on June 24, 2025, is a profound loss for all of us. The Board, the children, and the broader Foundation community mourn the departure of a man whose life embodied generosity, leadership, and faith in humanity. He touched lives not only in Ghana but throughout our international network, and his absence will be deeply felt. Yet, in remembering Danny, we find strength. His light continues to shine in every child who now walks a little farther, dreams a little bigger, and lives a little freer—because of him. We will miss him dearly, and we honor his legacy with gratitude and love.

By admin

TESTIMONIES

April 10, 2025

In My Own Words by Monica Ling Khaw

“My name is Monica Ling Khaw Lam. I am 19 years old and the third daughter among seven siblings.

My hometown is Khone Eain Village, located in Min Tat Township, Southern Chin State. I am currently living in Hlaing Township, Yangon, and studying at Campion Institute.

From Grade 6 to Grade 10, I lived at Myittar Mon Orphanage in Myaung Takar Village. When my father passed away, my mother struggled to raise us alone, and that’s why she decided to send me to the orphanage. From Grade 8 to Grade 10, I received full support from the Mary K. Yap Foundation. I want to sincerely thank the Foundation for covering all the costs of my food, living expenses, and education during that time.

Living at Myittar Mon Orphanage taught me a great deal. I arrived when I was 10 years old, and I grew up learning not just academics, but also about health, mental well-being, spiritual development, and religious values. Life lessons truly began at the orphanage, and the Sisters cared for us with deep love and compassion. Our daily lives were centered around education, and I’m very grateful for that.I cannot imagine what my life would be like if I hadn’t stayed there. I was happy growing up under its structure, rules, and discipline.

From what I understand, the Mary K. Yap Foundation is dedicated to supporting underserved children and orphans, especially in the area of education, with great love and care. The Foundation started supporting Myittar Mon Orphanage about a year after I arrived. I still remember the Sisters telling us that the Foundation would help children who were outstanding, well-behaved, intelligent, and eager to learn. Hearing the words “They will support the children” was incredibly uplifting—it was something I had never heard before in my life.

My life changed dramatically while I lived at the orphanage. They shaped me into a strong, capable person. I learned how to face challenges, to love and understand others, and to deepen my religious faith. I also learned to tell right from wrong and make good decisions.No matter where life takes me, the memories of the orphanage are always with me. That orphanage became my second home. The love and generosity of our supporters and donors have given us countless cherished memories, especially during Christmas time, which I remember fondly with the other children I grew up with.

Although I’m not a professional yet, I’m doing my best every day to reach that goal. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a professional, and I believe I will achieve that goal. My mom, relatives, and friends continue to encourage me. If given the opportunity, I would love to work alongside those who once supported me. I want to give back—to help underserved communities and engage in meaningful charitable work.

I’m still in touch with the Sisters and my friends from the orphanage. When I return to my village, the lack of a mobile network makes it hard to stay connected, but I always keep them in my heart. I am proud to have grown up in an orphanage. Some people see it as something negative or shameful. They look down on orphanages. But for me, it’s something I am grateful for. That experience shaped me into a disciplined and resilient person. When I look around today, I see many adults who lack the discipline I learned at Myittar Mon.

To the children still living in orphanages today: please take every opportunity to learn what you’re meant to. Don’t compare yourself to others. It’s better to stand firm on your path. Thank you all. I am delighted to have the opportunity to share this testimony.

Many thanks to the Mary K. Yap Foundation—may you continue to achieve even greater success.

Love,

Monica Ling Khaw Lam.”

Direct Translation by MF Staff

By admin

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

March 6, 2025

Lighting the Way to a Quiet Strength

Lighting the Way: Supporting Orphaned Youth at the Home of the Beacon

Mingalar Don, Yangon, Myanmar – The Mary K. Yap Foundation is pleased to share highlights from our recent visit to the Home of the Beacon, a longstanding and deeply respected orphanage nestled in the heart of Yangon. With over seventy-seven children in its care, this protective home of quiet resilience continues to provide not only shelter, but a nurturing environment grounded in compassion and faith. Leading the visit were Foundation Executive Director Peter K. Yap and Program Manager Meme Lwin, who also serves as one of our four Myanmar-based orphanage ambassadors—part of a dedicated network of sixteen global ambassadors working toward meaningful change for orphaned youth. The Home of the Beacon was also one of twenty-three participating institutions in our recent nationwide charity film viewing event, which fostered unity and emotional connection across Myanmar’s orphanage communities.

The visit offered a comprehensive look into the day-to-day life at the home, revealing a space thoughtfully designed to support the holistic development of its children. The compound features a small church that encourages spiritual growth and community bonding, a sustainable garden where the children learn to cultivate vegetables and herbs, and a modest library that provides a quiet place for reading and learning. One of the most impactful areas was the computer room, made possible through the generosity of a Korean organization. This room plays a critical role in equipping the children with essential digital skills. However, one need that stood out was the ongoing challenge of securing clean, reliable water—a fundamental necessity that remains in short supply. Our Foundation recognizes this urgent issue and is exploring avenues to extend future support in this area through #H20Hope.

A particularly heartfelt moment of the visit was the intimate gathering between Ambassador Meme Lwin and the children. Sitting in a circle, the children openly shared their thoughts about the film they had recently seen during the charity viewing event. Their reflections were thoughtful and moving, centered around the emotional core of the story: that no matter where life leads, the longing to return home remains strong. This sentiment deeply resonated with their lived experiences, and it was inspiring to witness their capacity to connect, reflect, and articulate the value of home, belonging, and identity. Moments like these are at the heart of the Foundation’s mission—to ensure that every child feels seen, heard, and empowered.

To make the visit both memorable and joyful, the Foundation brought a collection of toys, games, t-shirts, and practical household items for the children to use and enjoy. Their beaming smiles and infectious excitement reminded us that even the simplest acts of kindness can have a powerful impact. We extend our sincere gratitude to our B2B partner, Unilever Myanmar, for generously donating essential hygiene items such as toothpaste and soap—contributions that help maintain health and dignity within the home. We also wish to express heartfelt appreciation to Auntie Thet, who honored her ten-year-old grandson, Oakar, with a loving donation of a box of noodle supplies. This thoughtful gesture brought not just nourishment, but a personal touch of care and connection. These combined efforts from our partners and supporters exemplify the community spirit that sustains orphanages like the Home of the Beacon—places where love, strength, and hope quietly flourish every day.

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Contacts

Sustainable Bamboo E-Learning Centers for Orphanage Communities

Bamboo stands out as a cost-effective, abundantly available, eco-friendly, and fast-to-build material.”

Bamboo offers a rare combination of strength, sustainability, and accessibility. When properly treated, it allows us to build learning spaces that are resilient, affordable, and deeply connected to local environments—exactly what orphanage communities need for long-term digital education.”

Taungoo Return: Orphan Emergency Relief Completion

This return visit marked an important milestone—one year later—in ensuring that pledged support reached those most affected.”

The support we received will allow us to replace a large rice cooker that was damaged during the flooding. This may seem simple, but it is essential for preparing daily meals for the children. We are deeply grateful for this continued support, even a year after the disaster.”

Cinema with a Cause: Uniting for Sustainable Impact

**At the Culture and Creative Industries Forum, Cinema with a Cause showcased the transformative power of storytelling when creativity is guided by purpose.**

‘Art is my voice” is my way to Sketch and Hope

**The Mary K. Yap Foundation proudly kickoff its inaugural #SketchandHope program, part of our inspiring “Art Is My Voice” campaign for the underserved children.**

Every time we return, the children’s faces light up with recognition and comfort. It shows them that they are not forgotten—our presence reminds them that they are valued, supported, and deeply cherished.”

Their smiles reminded me that creativity is a universal language—one that brings hope, healing, and connection no matter where we come from.”

Inspiring Hope Through First-Level Computer Learning

The Foundation proudly announces the first successful #Road2Digital alliance with Alpha Education Center

1ST DAY

2ND DAY

3RD DAY GRADUATION

Emergency Support for Agape Child Care Home

In My Own Words by Teacher Cici

Somehow the miles between us don’t seem to mean as much, when special thoughts, wishes, and encouragements can help us keep in touch.”

The Board of Directors of the M.K.Y Foundation would like to extend our tribute to our beloved Orphanage Ambassador, Teacher Cici Samuels, who passed away at the age of 96 on July 2, 2025 in Myanmar.

A Warm Tribute to Danny N. Mainoo

The Board of Directors of the Mary K. Yap Foundation would like to extend a tribute to our cherished and respected advocate for orphaned children, Danny Naasei Mainoo, Orphanage Ambassador, who passed away at the age of 76 on June 15, 2025, in Ghana.

In My Own Words by Monica Ling Khaw

Lighting the Way to a Quiet Strength

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