Through this experience, I gained important insights into preparation, coordination, and leadership. Working alongside a team of committed individuals, I witnessed how the Mary K. Yap Foundation fosters a culture of compassion, teamwork, and effective planning—all of which contributed to the event’s success and impact.

More than anything, volunteering at the orphanage taught me valuable life lessons—empathy, compassion, patience, and gratitude. Interacting with the children and observing their resilience, despite the challenges they face, gave me a deeper appreciation for the things I often take for granted. It broadened my perspective and helped me understand the importance of building a kinder, more inclusive society.

As a volunteer, I enthusiastically took on several roles, including helping with the cooking program, organizing games, and providing support wherever needed. It was my first time participating in an event like this, and I felt both eager and honored to contribute. Working alongside a passionate team of volunteers taught me the power of teamwork and collaboration.

Despite being new to this kind of work, I quickly found myself immersed in the pure joy of giving back. Watching the children smile and laugh filled my heart in ways I hadn’t experienced before. Their happiness reminded me that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a profound impact. I also came to realize the importance of offering love, understanding, and acceptance to every child, regardless of their background or circumstances.

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.

So, charity—Parahita—means contributing to the well-being of the community, physically or intellectually. It is about fulfilling the needs of others, and in doing so, we experience a joy that echoes their gratitude. That hot summer, I remember families lining up with pots and pans, waiting to collect clean water from our truck. Their smiles—so warm, so grateful—touched me deeply. I wasn’t tired at all. Despite the heavy lifting and narrow alleyways, I only felt joy and contentment.

While lost in that memory on the bus, a small envelope suddenly landed on my lap. I picked it up. It read: “Please Donate Me.” Looking up, I saw an 8-year-old boy sitting nearby, instructing a 5-year-old to pass around the envelope. Some passengers gave money, while others looked away.

The 5-year-old asked softly, “Are we going back?” 

The older boy replied jokingly, “Your mom would only feed you eggs!” and then added, “Let’s move to another bus.”

They hopped off and disappeared into the next bus. Watching them, a thought struck me: At least these children have someone—someone guiding them, even if imperfectly.
But what about orphans? What about those with no parents, and no one at all to rely on?