04Jul2025

Making a Difference ●Building Dreams ● Creating Impact ● Saving Lives

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

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hello@marykyapfoundation.org

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TESTIMONIES
July 8, 2023

In My Own Words by Teophine

My name is Theophine. I am 21 years old. I come from a family of ten, including my mother, father and eight siblings.

But now, only five of us remain. I currently live and work in the United Arab Emirates. In 2008, a devastating storm hit Myanmar. During that disaster, I lost my father (Papa), my mother (Moe Moe), and three of my sisters. After the storm, I was rescued and brought to the Myittar Mon Center, which was established by the St. Francis Association.

I stayed at Myittar Mon and studied from kindergarten to Grade 10. While I was there, I received more than just an education—they taught me discipline, cooking, teamwork, how to grow vegetables, and many life skills. As I write this, I truly miss school. I imagine the mango trees must be bearing fruit by now. I remember the joy of picking mangoes and tamarind, even sneaking some with my friends. Those memories are precious, and even though I wish I could relive them, I know I cannot go back in time. When I was still in Myanmar, former students from the center used to gather and make donations. After moving to the UAE, I haven’t been able to join them.

“I have a plan: I want to donate 100,000 kyat every month to support orphaned children.”

After coming to the UAE, I have been planning to make this donation together with Ma Mee when I return to Myanmar. One thing I want to do is share my own life experiences with orphans—to inspire them to grow up stronger and more capable than I am.  I dream of becoming a professional, perhaps, a photo shoot model. If I were given the chance, I would pursue it with everything I have. And if I succeed, I want to give back even more to underserved communities, especially to orphaned children.

Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share my story

Love, 

Teophine.”

Direct Translation by MF Staff  Member Shelly

By admin
CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS 7
CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS
July 8, 2023

The Power of #H.S.Diploma Program

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.

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By admin
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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
June 24, 2023

Save the Children: Camilla Cabello

An electrifying Cuban singer is bringing positive change.”

Born in Cojímar, Cuba, Camila Cabello immigrated to the United States with her mother at a young age, bringing with her the dreams and determination that would one day shape her into an international pop sensation. Rising to fame as a member of the girl group Fifth Harmony and later launching a successful solo career, Cabello quickly became known not only for her powerful vocals and chart-topping hits, but also for her commitment to using her platform for meaningful change. Her journey from a young immigrant with limited resources to a global music icon is a story of courage, ambition, and heart.

Throughout her career, Camila has made it a point to stay grounded in her roots and advocate for those whose voices often go unheard. She has been a vocal supporter of immigrant rights and has spoken publicly about her own family’s struggles in pursuit of a better life. In 2018, she partnered with Save the Children, an organization focused on improving the lives of children across the globe, to help raise awareness and resources for children facing poverty, violence, and displacement. That same year, she also launched the “Healing Justice Project,” which provides mental health resources for youth activists. Her actions show a strong alignment between her personal values and her philanthropic commitments.

# Camila’s dedication to youth empowerment resonates strongly with the mission of the Mary K. Yap Foundation. Like our work with orphaned and disadvantaged children, Camila’s efforts highlight the importance of nurturing emotional well-being, creating access to education, and empowering young people to believe in their worth. Whether she’s supporting humanitarian causes or amplifying messages of self-love and resilience through her music, Camila exemplifies what it means to give back with purpose and compassion.

The Mary K. Yap Foundation is proud to feature Camila Cabello in our Individual Spotlight series, celebrating her unwavering commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities. Her voice—both as an artist and as an advocate—continues to inspire a generation to act with empathy and conviction. As we work to transform the lives of orphaned children through care, opportunity, and empowerment, we find in Camila’s journey a kindred spirit who reminds us all that change begins when we choose to care deeply and act boldly.

By admin
Sponsor a Child Program
CORPORATE NEWS
June 20, 2023

Sponsor an Orphan Child Program

Have you ever thought of doing something enriching, never done before that is exceptionally gratifying?  It’s about changing a person’s life forever with one single step.”

BBecoming a sponsor through the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s “Sponsor an Orphanage” program offers you a rare opportunity to make a lasting difference in the life of a child who has lost everything. Orphaned children—some as young as three months old—are among the most vulnerable members of our global community. They live each day hoping for a brighter tomorrow, and your involvement can turn that hope into reality. By joining this heartfelt mission, you become part of an exclusive Ambassador Club committed to uplifting the lives of orphaned children through consistent care, love, and support.

These children do not ask for much—just someone to believe in them. A daily contribution of just one U.S. dollar has the power to transform their lives by providing nourishment, education, emotional care, and a sense of belonging. More than a donation, your sponsorship becomes a symbol of encouragement that tells these children their lives matter and their futures are worth fighting for. Every contribution gives them a new reason to believe they can achieve more than their circumstances dictate.

These children do not ask for much—just someone to believe in them. A daily contribution of just one U.S. dollar has the power to transform their lives by providing nourishment, education, emotional care, and a sense of belonging. More than a donation, your sponsorship becomes a symbol of encouragement that tells these children their lives matter and their futures are worth fighting for. Every contribution gives them a new reason to believe they can achieve more than their circumstances dictate.

#The Mary K. Yap Foundation offers two impactful ways to give: you can sponsor a specific child or contribute to a general fund that supports orphanage-wide empowerment programs (See Donate to Impact). Upon enrollment, you’ll receive personal life story profiles of the children supported by your generosity. Each year, sponsors are honored with handwritten letters or updates from either the sponsored child or the headmaster of the orphanage—real, tangible evidence of the progress and joy your compassion has created. This connection bridges continents and reminds us all that love knows no borders.

Sponsorship goes far beyond charity—it creates a bond of trust, hope, and shared humanity. As a sponsor, you become an unified strength for children who once felt invisible. Your support helps provide critical essentials such as food, clean water, healthcare, and education—resources that give orphaned children the foundation to grow into strong, confident, and capable adults. In return, you’ll gain the immeasurable joy of knowing that you were the reason a child dared to dream again. Now is your chance to be the hero they’ve been waiting for.

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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
June 10, 2023

Ambassador for All: Angelina Jolie

“A mother of six doing it all for the Orphan Bill.

      – Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie, a famous American actress, is a mother of six children in which, three of whom she adopted internationally, and the other three was biological. Jolie had first witnessed the effects of a humanitarian crisis while filming Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) in war-torn Cambodia. Having seen it, Jolie contacted the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for information on international trouble spots. She began visiting refugee camps worldwide to learn more about the conditions in these areas.

Angelina Jolie was deeply moved by the children and the countless lives she encountered during her travels around the world, witnessing firsthand the hardships they faced—an experience that profoundly shaped her perspective and ultimately led her to consider adoption as a way to provide love, stability, and a future for those in need.

Angelina Jolie says, “Each is a beautiful way of becoming family. It is important to speak openly about all of it and share. ‘Adoption’ and ‘orphanage’ are positive words in our home. I can’t speak of pregnancy with my adopted children, but I speak with much detail and love about the journey to find them and what it was like to look in their eyes for the first time.”

#Angelina Jolie is truly the definition of an advocate, for she is taking strides to help children in need in developing countries. In 2007, Angelina Jolie launched the Global Action for Children (GAC) Program to help orphaned children in third-world countries receive support, including a free primary school education. Jolie spends considerable time assisting orphans in third-world countries, for many of her children are adopted from poor nations. 

Jolie and her former husband, Brad Pitt, also worked towards passing the Orphan’s Bill in Congress for orphaned children in poverty-stricken nations to gain access to a proper education. They believe these countries will improve if the future generation is properly educated, helping to end the continuous cycle of poverty. Angelina Jolie wishes to see millions of orphaned children receive proper care and support through the Orphan’s Bill. Through this, hopes that the poverty-stricken nations surrounding them will also improve.

The Mary K. Yap Foundation would like to acknowledge Angelina Jolie in our Individual Spotlight series as an incredible ambassador and inspiration to all children, especially those most vulnerable and affected.

By admin
CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS 3
CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS
June 5, 2023

#NourishHope for Orphan Children

Campaign Standouts: Introducing the Mary K Yap Foundation’s #NourishHope Campaign: Feeding Future, One Meal at a Time.

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The NourishHope campaign initiated by the Mary K. Yap Foundation is a guiding light for Myanmar’s disadvantaged children, mainly orphaned pupils. These children, lacking parental care and guardianship, face immense challenges in accessing proper nourishment and support. With a population of fifty-three million and ongoing political transitions, Myanmar’s need for food aid is critical, especially in conflict-ridden areas. Orphanages are vital in caring for these vulnerable children, but resources often fall short of meeting the growing demand.

Recognizing this urgent need, the Mary K. Yap Foundation launched the NourishHope campaign: Feeding Future, One Meal at a Time, which focuses on providing essential food supplies, including rice bags and plates, to orphanages across Myanmar. One such orphanage benefiting from this program is the Galilee Orphanage, where monthly donations of rice and other nutritious food items ensure that the orphans and the orphanage staff have enough to eat. This initiative not only addresses immediate hunger but also promotes the overall well-being of these children.

#The NourishHope campaign initiated by the Mary K. Yap Foundation is a guiding light for Myanmar’s disadvantaged children, mainly orphaned pupils. These children, lacking parental care and guardianship, face immense challenges in accessing proper nourishment and support. With a population of fifty-three million and ongoing political transitions, Myanmar’s need for food aid is critical, especially in conflict-ridden areas. Orphanages are vital in caring for these vulnerable children, but resources often fall short of meeting the growing demand.

Recognizing this urgent need, the Mary K. Yap Foundation launched the NourishHope campaign: Feeding Future, One Meal at a Time, which focuses on providing essential food supplies, including rice bags and plates, to orphanages across Myanmar. One such orphanage benefiting from this program is the Galilee Orphanage, where monthly donations of rice and other nutritious food items ensure that the orphans and the orphanage staff have enough to eat. This initiative not only addresses immediate hunger but also promotes the overall well-being of these children.

Through strategic partnerships with corporate entities, the NourishHope campaign is part of a broader Food Development Plan aimed at significantly improving the nutritional status of orphaned children. By ensuring a steady food supply to orphanages, the Mary K. Yap Foundation envisions a future where malnutrition among these vulnerable groups decreases substantially. This support enables these children to thrive as responsible individuals and contribute positively to their communities and country.

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By admin
finding strength
COMMENTARIES
May 25, 2023

Finding Strength on Father’s Day

Commentary: Finding Strength on Father’s Day
 By Serenitee Ayobamidele Yap

#As Father’s Day 2022 approached, I was reminded of the old saying, “A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow.” It’s a phrase many of us take to heart, often recalling the strength, wisdom, and silent sacrifices of the men who helped shape our lives. Traditionally, fathers are seen as protectors—pillars of strength who stand as heroes in their children’s eyes. For many, this special day in June is filled with heartfelt messages, backyard gatherings, and moments of gratitude. Yet, amid all the joy and celebration, there’s a silent population whose stories rarely make it to the surface—children without fathers.

It’s easy to forget how deep a father’s influence runs until it’s absent. For children growing up in loving homes, a father’s presence often sets the tone for discipline, moral compass, and emotional grounding. But for orphans—especially those who lost their fathers due to illness, war, poverty, or abandonment—Father’s Day can bring a wave of complex emotions. What does it feel like to have no memory of the man who was meant to protect you? To lack a role model who would have taught you how to stand tall in a world that often overlooks your pain? Orphaned children face this harsh reality every day. Without a father figure to look up to, many grow up feeling emotionally incomplete, carrying a void that no celebration can fill.

These children are often left to navigate the world without the guidance that could have helped shape their values or ambitions. The absence of that foundational relationship can lead to challenges in building self-confidence, forming goals, and trusting others. It’s not just the loss of a parent—it’s the loss of direction, identity, and safety.

As the rest of the country celebrates Father’s Day with cards and cookouts, let it also be a day to remember those who grieve in silence. Let us honor the memory of fathers who are no longer with us by standing beside the children they left behind. These children may never have the chance to hand their father a card or thank him in person, but we, as a society, can step in with love, mentorship, and support. This Father’s Day, may we extend our compassion beyond our own families and recognize the orphaned children who deserve to be seen, heard, and uplifted—today and every day.

By admin
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COMMENTARIES
April 26, 2023

A Generous Heart during COVID

We have been in a world of pandemics and crises from the year 2020 up until the present. A lot of people, especially the poor, are greatly affected by Covid19. Many people have transitioned from working in the office to working from home, and students have transitioned from a face-to-face class set-up to virtual classes.

As the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the global landscape, it exposed deep imbalances across societies and economies. Businesses large and small were disrupted—many forced to close permanently—while families faced rising unemployment and uncertainty. Yet within this turbulence, digital platform businesses such as Amazon experienced significant growth, meeting the urgent demand for online access to essential goods and services. This unexpected divergence became a defining feature of the pandemic economy.

#One of the most striking responses to this divide came from philanthropist Mackenzie Scott, the ex-wife of Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. Acknowledging the pandemic’s devastating toll, which she described as a “wrecking ball” to those already vulnerable, Scott accelerated her charitable contributions. Her nearly $6 billion in donations during 2020 marked one of the most extraordinary individual giving efforts in recent memory. Beyond the numbers, what stood out was the clarity and humility with which she addressed growing inequality.

Commentators like Melissa Berman, CEO of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, noted that Scott’s efforts constituted one of the largest distributions by a living donor to working charities. Having signed the Giving Pledge in 2019, Scott’s commitment to giving away the majority of her wealth reflects a broader shift in how philanthropic leadership can respond to crisis—not just with statements, but with decisive, timely action. Her example serves as a reminder that in times of global hardship, generosity is not only admirable but necessary.

At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we reflect on such moments through the lens of our Generous Hearts commentary series. Scott’s response to the pandemic echoes the values we hold close: that acts of giving can—and should—be rooted in empathy, urgency, and meaningful impact. In honoring individuals like her, we affirm a belief long central to our work—that hope often arrives through the hands of those willing to give without expecting anything in return.

By admin
#TeddyBear4Hold
CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS
April 25, 2023

#TeddyBear4Hold for an Orphan Child

Campaign Standouts: Introducing the Mary K Yap Foundation’s #TeddyBear4Hug: Strong Companions, Cuddles of Comfort

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The #TeddyBear4Hold campaign orchestrated by Mary K. Yap Foundation encapsulates the essence of compassion and warmth, particularly directed towards vulnerable orphans in Myanmar. In a world where these children might often feel abandoned or neglected, this initiative stands tall as a giver of hope and companionship. Imagine the joy in a child’s eyes when they receive a soft, cuddly companion to hold onto during lonely nights. It’s more than just a stuffed toy; it’s a symbol of love, security, and the assurance that they are not alone.

For over two decades, the Mary K. Yap Foundation has been a pillar of support for orphaned children across Myanmar. The evolution of the One Stuff Animal Project into the TeddyBear4Hold campaign showcases a commitment to innovation and meaningful impact. Every year, this campaign not only provides physical comfort but also nurtures emotional well-being. It’s a testament to the power of small gestures in making a significant difference in someone’s life.

At the core of the #TeddyBear4Hold campaign is the belief that every child deserves to feel cherished and valued. By joining hands with the Mary K. Yap Foundation, you become a part of a larger movement that spreads love and positivity. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, each contribution plays a vital role in brightening a child’s world. Together, we can create a ripple effect of kindness that transcends borders and touches hearts.

#The impact of this campaign goes beyond the physical act of giving a teddy bear. It fosters a sense of belonging and security among orphans who might otherwise feel lost or forgotten. The simple act of holding onto a teddy bear can provide immense comfort during vulnerable moments, especially at night when the absence of parental warmth is deeply felt. It’s about instilling hope and resilience in young hearts, empowering them to believe in a brighter tomorrow.

Join us in amplifying the message of love and companionship through the #TeddyBear4Hold campaign. Together, let’s extend unlimited hugs to these deserving children, reminding them that they are cherished, valued, and never alone. Your support can make a world of difference in shaping a more compassionate and inclusive future for all.

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By admin
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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
April 21, 2023

Juan Karlos Labajo: Orphan’s Inspiration

Juan Karlos Labajo, also known as “JK,” is a Filipino-German singer born on February 5, 2001, and raised in Consolacion, Cebu, the Philippines, by his mother, Malinda Labajo.

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His German father, Oliver Stolz, left the family after his birth. His mother married a second time, and he has two younger half-brothers from her second marriage. On November 17, 2013, he became an orphan after he lost his mother at the age of twelve, following which he was adopted by his uncle, Jovanni, and Grandmother, Linda, in Metro Manila. His family struggled financially for a long time, and he even had to scavenge junk for a living.

Juan Karlos Labajo, having a talent for singing, decided to join the season 1 blind audition for ABS-CBN’s ‘The Voice Kids.’ He charmed the coaches with his rendition of the Adam Sandler song, ‘Grow Old With You.’ Coaches Sarah Geronimo and Bamboo Mañalac wanted him on their teams, which allowed him to choose one, following which he picked Mañalac. 

His performance of ‘Sway’ during the live semi-finals at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila placed him third after public voting, which advanced him to the four-person finals. In the finals, the coaches praised his performance of ‘Yesterday’ by The Beatles, ‘Runaway Baby’ by Bruno Mars, and the duet ‘Eto Na Naman’ with Gary Valenciano. Still, he again finished third in the voting.

After the competition, JK was managed by Star Magic, ABS-CBN’s training and management center. From there started his career, and he was cast in different T.V. programs. He also appeared in the lead role in the Philippine drama anthology series ‘Maalaala Mo Kaya.’ His successful career continued as he was involved in different parts – supporting and leading the cast. 

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In August 2015, JK released his debut album JK, featuring eight tracks, including “Di Ka Man Lang Nagpaalam,” a heartfelt tribute to his late mother. He also became a host on the music program MYX and later followed up with his second album JKL, which also featured eight tracks, three of which were his own compositions. Although his mother never had the chance to witness his rise after years of hardship, JK remained proud of his success and honored her memory through his music. Growing up as an orphan without the support of his biological parents, he never gave up—instead, he persevered, believing in himself even when no one else did. With minimal help from his uncle and grandmother, he worked tirelessly to follow and achieve his dreams.

The inspiring journey of Juan Karlos Labajo resonates deeply with the mission of the Mary K. Yap Foundation—to uplift and empower orphaned and disadvantaged youth to pursue their dreams despite adversity. His story is a powerful reminder that talent, resilience, and determination can thrive even in the absence of traditional support systems. In recognition of his courage and achievements, the Mary K. Yap Foundation is proud to feature Juan Karlos Labajo in our Individual Spotlight Edition, celebrating individuals whose lives and work embody hope, perseverance, and the spirit of transformation we aim to nurture in every child we serve.

By admin