The Board of Directors of the Mary K Yap Foundation would like to extend our tribute to our beloved Fellow Board and Company Secretary, Edward Thaung, who passed away at the age of 73 on August 7, 2021, in Yangon, Myanmar.

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Edward Thaung was a devoted Roman Catholic who stood by his religious convictions in supporting those in need.  He was always available to lend his ears and share his valuable insights and experience with anyone who asked for help.   As a faithful husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and mentor to many start-up companies, Edward Thaung touched many people with his candid personality, storytelling talents, and five decades of knowledge of the country’s regulatory and commerical affairs.

Board Member Edward Thaung (late)

During his professional career, Edward Thaung counseled and advised many local and foreign companies on such diverse matters as company formation, taxation, investment proposals, criminal law, family law, international contracts, and dispute resolutions.   His early years of legal work included serving as a Town Law Officer, Grade (4) Public prosecutor, and Pre-trial Legal Advisor to the police department, revenue, customs department, immigration, and other government departments.  Among his notable contributions was his time as Senior Law Officer at the Attorney General’s Office (1989-1993) in coordination with other government bodies to successfully host the Rights of the Child Seminar in cooperation with UNICEF in Yangon.   He redrafted new laws in coordination with the relevant Government departmental personnel and translated Myanmar legal statutes into English.

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From 1993 to 1995, he was the Assistant Director for Environmental Affairs ‘Office’ and attended the United Nations Environmental Program UNEP Seminar as National Ozone Officer for Myanmar.   For ten years, he held the Secretary to the Board of Directors position at Air Mandalay Limited from 1996 to 2006.  He was responsible for company compliance with the relevant laws of Myanmar as the chief legal consultant to Petronas, World Trade Center Yangon, Awba Group, and Mandalay Productions, to name a few. In addition, he was appointed as visiting university law lecturer in 1996 to teach commercial law subjects in Master of Business Administration (MBA) classes in Yangon sponsored by the Institute of Economics, Yangon.  For the past three years before his death, he served as the Chief Regulatory Officer for the KMA Group of Companies.

The work contributed by Edward Thaung was done with the utmost integrity and professionalism on behalf of the public and private organizations he served.    Despite his busy schedule, he always found the time to give a hand to worthy organizations and individuals.   Over the three years that Edward Thaung represented our Foundation board, we benefited from his legal advice and developed our sponsored programs in Myanmar in full legal compliance.

Our goal has always been to become a trusted partner to our donor community so that charitable funds make it to the orphanages that need the most help.   With the help of Edward Thaung, we have become a trusted partner with local communities, positioning our organization to serve all orphanages in the country. So much of the success of our empowerment programs working with Myanmar orphans would not have been possible without the dedicated and faithful help of Edward Thaung.  His passing represents a great loss to our organization and Myanmar.

Happy New Year from the Mary K. Yap Foundation

January 10, 2021

Dear Friends,

Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters,

As we step into 2021 with renewed hope, the Mary K. Yap Foundation is proud to continue our heartfelt collaboration with Mandalay Productions on the post-production of our upcoming charity film, Myittar. Though the final audio mixing in Thailand, originally scheduled for February 2020, was delayed due to the pandemic, our shared commitment to the project has only grown stronger.

In early March, our teams began scouting for a location to shoot a new music video that beautifully complements the film—centered around the life of an orphan and the enduring power of compassion and resilience. We are hopeful that this creative piece will further amplify Myittar‘s mission to bring visibility to children who are often forgotten.

While travel and in-person gatherings were limited throughout 2020, these challenges gave us the chance to reimagine our outreach and marketing strategies in anticipation of Myittar’s release. By August, we were pleased to complete editing adjustments and submit the film to the Censorship Board in Myanmar—a major step forward despite the year’s uncertainties.

Though we were unable to celebrate Christmas in person with the children at our partnered orphanages, our hearts were certainly with them. We continue to lift them in our thoughts and prayers, and our Rice Donation Program remains ongoing in areas we can safely reach through domestic routes. Every small gesture makes a lasting difference—and we are as committed as ever to showing these children that they are not alone.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and our Yangon team, thank you for believing in our mission. Your support inspires everything we do. Should you need assistance or wish to get involved, our Yangon office remains open and ready to serve. Let’s move forward in 2021 with renewed compassion, purpose, and unity.

Yours truly,

Dr. John Palmer

Chairman of the Board

Mary K. Yap Foundation Board of

Directors”

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Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters

January 8, 2020

Dear Friends,

Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters,

We hope 2020 is off to a joyful and fulfilling start for you and your loved ones. As we reflect on the past year, we are pleased to share with you the progress and achievements of the Mary K. Yap Foundation, including a significant milestone in our mission to uplift orphan communities.

In mid 2018, we entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Mandalay Productions LLC (MP) for the production of Myittar—a heartfelt charity film designed to raise global awareness of the struggles faced by orphaned children in Myanmar. This powerful storytelling project is not merely a film, but a vehicle for advocacy, education, and charitable outreach. All proceeds from Myittar are committed to supporting orphan relief, education programs, and social wellness initiatives that improve the lives of underserved children.

Over the course of two years, our Foundation has worked closely with Mandalay Productions to bring this international collaboration to life. We are deeply grateful to Edward Thaung, George Rush, and Gabriel Jack for their invaluable legal guidance, which allowed us to bring esteemed Myanmar artists to the United States under the O-1 visa program. Principal photography officially began on February 17, 2019, across multiple U.S. locations, and later continued in Yangon, Myanmar. This production marks a historic first: Myanmar Academy Award-winning talents Htun Eindra Bo and Lumin filmed scenes on American soil, led by our award-winning Hollywood Director Graham Streeter, and A.D. partner Alex Lebosq.

We are also honored to have Peter K. Yap, my beloved son, serve as the film’s Producer and Executive Producer. His dedication, vision, and behind-the-scenes leadership have been instrumental in bringing this international project to life. Working closely with Director Streeter, Peter and his Production team helped oversee coordination between the U.S. and Myanmar, ensuring the film stayed true to its cultural authenticity and humanitarian purpose. Although we shot at multiple locations in San Francisco, we extend our appreciation to Skyline College in San Bruno, California, for graciously providing access to their theater establishments, and for celebrating the importance of this charity film with us.

With the invitation from our Unit Director Ma Grace Shwe Zin Htaik, our team attended during the same year attended the April 2019 Celebrations of the 60th Anniversary Year for the Myanmar Academy Awards held in the capital of Naypyidaw, Myanmar. The Foundation’s Program Manager, Meme Lwin and I amplified the message of Hope for the Children at the Academy event.  We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to Grace Swe Zin Htike, our dedicated Myanmar Unit Director, whose coordination with the Myanmar Motion Picture Development Office and the Film Development Center made it possible to complete the Myanmar production.

To close the year, our Foundation was deeply honored to receive a blessing during a welcome visit to the offices of the Yangon Archdiocese of the Roman Catholic Church, where we had the privilege of meeting His Grace Cardinal Charles Bo. During this meaningful encounter, Cardinal Charles Bo graciously endorsed the Myittar Charity Film as a guiding light of hope for orphaned children.

We concluded our charitable efforts with sponsorships to three orphanages in Myanmar, providing meals, desserts, games, and a stuffed toy for each child to cherish during the festive season. These moments truly embodied the spirit of Myittar, which in Burmese means “love and compassion.” As we move into 2020, we look forward with hope and excitement as we complete post-production, with a planned release in 2021.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who believes in our mission. Your continued support allows us to provide not only essential resources but also a sense of dignity, love, and hope to orphaned children. Together, we are making a lasting difference—one story, one child, one act of kindness at a time.

With warmest regards,

Mary K. Yap
Founder

Mary K. Yap Foundation Board of Directors”

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Lights, Camera, Action for a Cause: The “Movie for Charity” Initiative

The Mary K. Yap Foundation is thrilled to announce an exciting and innovative new venture in our ongoing efforts to uplift and advance Myanmar’s orphan community: the “Movie for Charity” initiative. This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant extension of our vibrant fundraising activities, demonstrating our commitment to creative and impactful ways of generating support. We are incredibly proud to be working in a landmark partnership with Mandalay Productions LLC on this pioneering project, which centers around their first-ever feature film. The net proceeds generated from this “Movie for Charity” program will directly benefit the advancement of orphaned children in Myanmar, providing resources for their education, health, and overall well-being.

“Min”, an Orphan, played by Gin Mung

Our Board expresses tremendous appreciation for this unique collaboration, which allows us to work intimately with a highly creative and esteemed film and video production company. Mandalay Productions LLC, strategically based in both the United States and Myanmar, is renowned for its commitment to delivering and producing unrivaled films. Their dedication to maintaining and providing the best international filmmaking practices aligns perfectly with our foundation’s pursuit of excellence in all endeavors.

#The highly anticipated feature film at the heart of this initiative, powerfully titled “Myittar” (aka Unbroken Ties for US Title), promises to be a unique and compelling cultural blend. It will proudly showcase the exceptional talents of well-known artists from Myanmar alongside emerging and established stars from the Burmese American acting community. This cinematic fusion is truly historic. Mandalay Productions LLC stands as the sole financial partner and producer of this monumental project – marking it as the first Burmese and American feature film ever to be filmed across both the United States and Myanmar (Burma).

The Mary K. Yap Foundation takes enormous pride in vigorously promoting our worldwide non-profit initiative, championing the “Movie-for-Charity” project and its esteemed affiliation with Mandalay Productions LLC, as we believe it represents a new frontier in philanthropic engagement through art.

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Harmonizing for Hope: Mary K. Yap Foundation’s “Music for Charity”

As part of our foundation’s ongoing commitment to transform the lives of Myanmar’s orphaned children, the Mary K. Yap Foundation proudly organized and launched our impactful “Music for Charity” fundraising campaign. This cherished event ran annually from 2001 to date, offering a free show for the entire community to enjoy. Each year, we rented a theater and convention room, creating a vibrant space for connection and contribution.

Fundraising at the “Music for Charity” event in Daly City for Orphanages in Wakema, Myanmar ’10.

#The heart of “Music for Charity” lies in our passionate community of volunteers and diverse entertainment contributors. These dedicated individuals grace the stage, performing beloved traditional Myanmar songs and captivating dances, creating an atmosphere of joy and cultural celebration. To maximize the charitable funds for Myanmar’s orphans, the Mary K. Yap Foundation distributes special coupons. Friends and families within the community then sell these to their networks, allowing attendees to purchase delicious traditional Burmese foods, expertly prepared and sold by generous contributors. Additionally, some donors contribute food directly to the event, further enhancing the culinary experience. Of course, direct financial support and donations are always warmly welcomed at the “Music for Charity” event.

To collect charitable funds for the Myanmar orphans, Mary K. Yap Foundation distributes coupons wherein that friends and families from the community will sell to their networks which they can use to purchase traditional Burmese foods prepared and sold by some contributors. In addition, some donors donate food at the event. Financial support and donations are also generously welcome at the Music for Charity event.

One of Foundation’s Accomplished Champion, Auntie Jackie

The annual gathering sees guests, donors, partners, volunteers, and family members coming together to enjoy the performances, a testament to the collective effort to help and transform the lives of Myanmar orphans. To uphold our core value of transparency in donation amounts, the Mary K. Yap Foundation consistently publishes a financial clearance report. This document details the previous year’s collected funds and the exact amount disbursed to Myanmar orphans, ensuring everyone knows precisely how their contributions are making a difference.

The foundation’s ultimate desire is to significantly increase awareness of the everyday needs of orphaned children in Myanmar. We believe that as more people become aware of the “Music for Charity” event and the critical work we do, more donors and vital funds will become available, propelling us closer to achieving our mission of empowering orphaned children throughout Myanmar. The Mary K. Yap Foundation firmly believes that even a small effort goes a long way. Therefore, we passionately encourage everyone to donate or volunteer their time to support the future generation of these deserving children, helping us continue to harmonize for hope.

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The Mary K. Yap Foundation operates with a core mission: to transform the lives of Myanmar orphans, guiding them toward becoming independent and productive members of their communities

We deeply believe that every one of these children can truly prosper when given the proper guidance and committed support. They deserve not just care, but the undivided love and enduring hope from those who believe in their potential. For over two decades, we’ve been profoundly humbled to serve the interests of these disadvantaged children, witnessing firsthand the incredible resilience they possess.

The Spirit of Unity at Myittamone: Everyone Strives to become Productive

Our organizational mission aspires to provide every orphan with the enduring hope that they, too, have equal access to quality Educational Programs and sufficient facilities and tools. These resources are not merely provisions; they are absolutely crucial for aiding these young individuals in forging a brighter, more promising future. We understand deeply that education is the cornerstone of empowerment, the very foundation upon which a life of dignity and opportunity can be built.

#Therefore, we are profoundly committed to equipping these young minds with not only the academic knowledge but also the critical skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world successfully. This includes fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the adaptability required to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape. Our aim is to ensure that their journey is marked by continuous learning and growth, opening doors to possibilities that might otherwise remain out of reach.

The Foundation actively engages in Social Programs that are impactful, specifically designed to help these orphaned children develop vital life skills. This includes fostering their abilities in communicating and interacting effectively with others, and crucially, building their self-confidence. By creating environments where they can learn, grow, and express themselves, the Foundation ensures that these orphaned children will be empowered and ultimately become reliable and contributing citizens within their communities. Our commitment is to nurture not just their minds, but their spirits, so they can lead fulfilling and impactful lives.

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Our vision is to make the most significant impact on the orphan community in Myanmar by delivering quality programs that empower them to prosper and become successful, contributing citizens.

We firmly believe that every child, regardless of their early life circumstances, deserves the fundamental opportunity to reach their full potential. Our commitment extends far beyond simply providing basic necessities; we are dedicated to offering comprehensive support that fosters holistic development. This includes ensuring access to quality education, essential healthcare, practical vocational training, and vital psychosocial support, all meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual child.

Volunteer Phyu Yati Kok Ko got every children’s attention

By investing deeply in the growth and well-being of these young individuals, we aim to equip them with the tools and resilience needed to overcome adversity. Our Programs are designed not just to address immediate needs but to cultivate essential life skills, critical thinking, and a strong sense of self-worth. We strive to create an environment where these children feel secure, valued, and empowered to dream big and work towards those dreams. This long-term perspective is crucial for breaking cycles of poverty and disadvantage.

#Ultimately, Our Goals are to enable these young people to integrate successfully into their communities, to contribute positively to the future of Myanmar, and to develop them to become responsible citizen. We envision a generation of empowered individuals who are not only self-sufficient but also active participants in building a more prosperous and equitable society. Through mentorship, community engagement, and opportunities for leadership, we aim to nurture a sense of responsibility and belonging, ensuring they become valuable assets to their nation.

The success of Our Vision hinges on collaborative efforts, community involvement, and sustainable strategies. We are committed to working closely with local communities, government bodies, and other humanitarian organizations to maximize our reach and effectiveness. By building strong partnerships and fostering a culture of compassion and support, we believe we can truly transform the lives of orphaned children in Myanmar, giving them the bright future they deserve.

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“A hope for all orphans” is what we standby

The Mary K. Yap Foundation firmly upholds these three core pillars, Unity, Excellence, and Integrity, in our everyday actions and decisions.

These core values represent our organization to the world.

#Unity is one of the most fundamental and guiding principles that any successful organization must embody in order to deliver its mission effectively. At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, unity is not just a value—it is a way of life. We believe that our collective strength lies in our ability to come together as one, regardless of our backgrounds. Our foundation brings together a diverse group of passionate volunteers, professionals, and supporters from various cultures, religions, languages, and nationalities. This diverse community unites with a shared purpose: to serve orphaned and vulnerable children with love, compassion, and commitment. Unity strengthens our foundation at every level. It encourages teamwork, builds bridges across differences, and fosters a sense of belonging for everyone involved. By working together in harmony, we can overcome challenges, celebrate achievements, and continue to build a resilient network of support for the children in our care. It is this unity that creates a welcoming, inclusive, and collaborative environment where every voice matters and every effort counts.

Excellence is the standard that drives every aspect of our work. It reflects our deep commitment to the children we serve and to the mission we uphold. At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we believe that children—especially those who have lost their parents—deserve the highest level of care, attention, and opportunity. Therefore, we strive to pursue excellence in everything we do: in our programs, in our decision-making, in our communication, and in the services we deliver. Excellence is not just an expectation—it is a responsibility. We continuously evaluate and improve our performance, learning from challenges and celebrating progress. We invest in training, development, and innovation so that our staff and volunteers are always equipped to provide outstanding care and leadership. Through our commitment to quality, we are able to offer impactful programs, compassionate support, and life-changing opportunities to the children who rely on us. Excellence ensures that our actions not only meet but exceed the standards of ethical care, accountability, and service.

Integrity is the moral compass that guides every decision we make and every action we take. It is the foundation of trust between the foundation, the children we serve, our donors, and our partners. At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we uphold the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior. We believe that true integrity means doing the right thing—even when no one is watching—and standing by our principles even when it is difficult. We are fully transparent in our operations, including the management of resources, the delivery of services, and our communication with all stakeholders. We respect the dignity of every child and ensure that their rights, safety, and privacy are always protected. Our donors and supporters trust us because we provide clear, honest reporting and are accountable for every contribution we receive.

Founder Auntie Mary at Monastary known for sponsoring orphaned children in Mandalay

MKY Foundation: A Hope for All Orphans

#The Mary K. Yap Foundation is committed to its Mission Statement of transforming the lives of Myanmar’s orphaned children by empowering them to become independent and productive members of society. The Foundation believes that every orphan, no matter their background, deserves a future filled with opportunity, dignity, and hope. By focusing on long-term development rather than short-term aid, the Foundation aims to invest in the next generation of Myanmar’s youth, giving them the tools to rise above their circumstances and grow into capable, contributing citizens.

Sacred Heart Parish in Kyauktan 100 Years old 1914-2014

One of the upcoming undertakings “a hope for all orphans” initiative through the “Myanmar Orphans – www.myanmarorphans.org” website is  designed to expand awareness and channel meaningful support to orphaned and disadvantaged children across Myanmar. It aims to help improve their learning potential, encourage intellectual growth, and create pathways for academic and social achievement. Ultimately, the project strives to equip these children with the confidence, knowledge, and resilience needed to lead responsible and impactful lives in Myanmar society.

The Myanmar Orphans project includes a variety of core programs that address critical needs. These encompass efforts in education, nutrition and food development, sustainable living solutions, social welfare outreach, and disaster support assistance. Each program is designed to break down barriers that prevent orphaned children from accessing opportunities commonly available to others. By doing so, the Foundation will work toward ensuring that these children have the chance to thrive in environments that foster fairness, growth, and dignity.

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Additionally, the project plans to incorporate emergency relief responses and community-based initiatives to address challenges caused by natural disasters and other crises. These components will focus on providing immediate aid, such as shelter and basic necessities, while also creating systems that promote long-term stability and healing. Through these efforts, the Mary K. Yap Foundation aims to build a future where no orphaned child is left behind—where every child will be given the opportunity to dream, grow, and contribute to a stronger Myanmar.  Please stay tuned.