In My Own Words by Bethany
Hello! My name is Bethany, and I am from Pennsylvania, USA.
I’ve been traveling through East & South-East Asia for 12 months. After reading about Myanmar for many years, I wanted to see for myself what it’s like on the ground and to help those in need. Through a simple Google search, I found the Mary K. Yap Foundation, a US-based 501 (c)(3) non-profit, which has been supporting orphanage children for multiple years. After a Zoom call with the Executive Director, Peter Yap (Uncle Pete), we discovered that, although he lives in San Francisco with his family, both he and I would be visiting Yangon at the same time — God’s perfect timing!
When I arrived in Myanmar, Uncle Pete and Meme introduced me to Yangon – Burmese traditional food, Thanaka (the light-colored wood face paste), and even some local friends and Expats.
“Tanaka” kept my Face Cool all Day Long
Hang Out with Seniors in Style
New Found Friends in Yangon
I was able to come alongside Meme, the master-project-manager, and help launch a new program called Sketch and Hope. There are so many little details that go on behind-the-scenes to make a new program successful; Meme is the best at what she does! Every bit of her is dedicated to these sweet orphans, and she looks after many programs in Myanmar as one of the Orphanage Ambassadors.
“Our Signature Handshake: Meme’s Peace sign with My Thumbs-Up”
“Meme and I were always on the Road”
We launched the Sketch and Hope program at Ga lilee Church & Children’s Home on November 16, 2025. At this home, Pastor Saw and a few family members care for 38 children. The students started the day by sketching their hopes for the future and what they love. There were some doctors, singers, and pharmacists… lots of nature scenes and crosses also.
Program Introduction by Ambassador Meme
Getting ready for “Sketch and Hope” Day.
Children Finishing up Final Touches
First Round of Drawing Done
Greetings with Pastor Saw Outside Compound
A Cheerful Post with the Team
After a delicious biriyani lunch, the artists really took off and showed the students beautiful watercolor techniques. It was fun to see the children create and be exposed to new ways of expressing themselves.
“Whoopla, I’ve done it!”
“I am almost there!”
“Finishing up the details.”
For me, the most memorable part of the day was the worship session after the certificates were distributed. The children, led by their brother Paul alongside brother David playing a simple guitar, all worshiped and praised the Lord, singing songs like “Your Goodness is Running After Me” and “I give You Everything” (as well as a few songs in Burmese). With tears in my eyes, I had to leave the room — overcome with the goodness of God, with the hope and joy He has given to these children, with the faithfulness of Pastor Saw & family to care for these kids, and with His kindness towards me to allow me to be a witness to these things.
All Smiles: Concluding a Successful Annual Inauguration of “Sketch and Hope” Program
The day ended with a little bit of English practice and a lot of hugs. A part of my heart will always live in this little home near Yangon.
I’m so thankful to the Foundation, Uncle Pete, and Meme for a lovely 6 weeks in Yangon; to Pastor Saw & children for welcoming us into their home for this special program; to the professional artists who instructed the technique session; and of course, to my Lord and Savior for giving me life!
Bethany Snyder
A Volunteer and a Member of Champion of Hearts
Collection of photo collages
