01Jul2025

Making a Difference Building Dreams Creating Impact Saving Lives

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Contacts

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

PROJECT OFFICE:                  Pearl Condo, Bldg A, 15 Fl., Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd.,      Yangon, Myanmar

hello@marykyapfoundation.org

US: +1 415 991 2030                 US: +1 415 799 8282                    MM: +95 9 977 66 7777

Tag: Hope

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CORPORATE NEWS

Chairman’s Year-End Reflection

Chairman’s Year-End Reflections

Dr. John Palmer, Chairman – Mary K. Yap Foundation

As we come to the close of another remarkable year, I reflect with deep gratitude on the incredible milestones the Mary K. Yap Foundation has achieved. After a decade of careful planning, our charity film project—born from a vision to elevate unheard voices—came to life with a nationwide theatrical release this December across 65 cinemas in Myanmar. For more than 1,300 orphaned children, representing over 23 orphanages across the country, this was not just a movie screening—it was their very first experience in a movie theater. This unforgettable moment was made possible through our Partners of Hope project, generously supported by our B2B partners and the exceptional individuals who stepped up to ensure these children could experience the wonder of cinema for the very first time.

Our film’s impact extended far beyond borders. It earned recognition from 11 international film festivals. It was nominated twice for the Audience Choice Award—honors granted by two prominent Asian film festivals in our neighborhood: the Silicon Valley Asian Pacific Film Festival and the twenty-year-running DisOrient Film Festival in Eugene, Oregon. At the prestigious Monaco Charity Film Festival, we were honored with both Best Picture and Best Story—testaments not only to the power of storytelling, but to the heart and truth behind our mission. This project was never just about a film. It was about igniting compassion and amplifying the voices of orphan children, giving them a global platform to share their hopes and realities.

This year also marked the launch of our newest humanitarian initiative: the H2OHope clean water campaign. Designed to bring sustainable water solutions to orphanage communities, this program reflects our commitment to long-term wellness and dignity for every child. None of this would be possible without our passionate volunteers, who have stood on the front lines, giving their time and hearts to push every mission forward. Their selfless efforts continue to light the path toward opportunity, healing, and hope.

As Chairman, I am continually inspired by the resilience of the children we serve and the dedication of those who walk beside us.

A Hope for All Orphans means giving them love, support, and opportunities that they need to grow, dream, and succeed, ensuring every child can thrive and reach their full potential,”— Dr. John Palmer.

For 24 years, the Mary K. Yap Foundation has stood committed to this cause. The outlook for 2025 is as exciting as ever, with new initiatives and positive impact programs on the horizon. Together, we are not just changing lives—we are building futures.

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COMMENTARIES

Commitment Amid Myanmar’s Challenges

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Despite the ongoing uncertainty in Myanmar, the Mary K. Yap Foundation remains committed in our mission to uplift and care for the orphaned children we have served for over two decades. These children, who face some of life’s most difficult circumstances, continue to be at the heart of everything we do. We believe that every child deserves hope, stability, and a future filled with opportunity.

        As Dr. John Palmer, Board Chair of the Foundation, shared in a recent Zoom interview:

“They (the children) should not fear what will happen in the future, instead, we must take each day and pay attention to areas where they can develop new talents and skills to support their future.”

Dr John Palmer

Board Chair of the Mary K. Yap Foundation
Daily Learning and Emotional Growth

In line with this vision, our Foundation encourages all children in our care to continue their journey of daily self-learning. Developing habits such as reading, writing, and critical thinking helps build a foundation of confidence and independence. Our local orphanage teams work diligently to provide educational materials, including books, journals, and storytelling sessions, to support each child’s development. Daw Meme Lwin, one of our dedicated Orphanage Ambassadors, has played a key role in nurturing this spirit of growth. Through her regular reading sessions and motivational talks, she helps children understand that even the smallest effort can pave the way for a “Better Tomorrow.” These acts of engagement do more than educate—they inspire hope.

Building Resilience Through Reading and Connection

Through partnerships with domestic and international donors, we have launched a coordinated effort to distribute books and educational materials to every orphanage center under our care. These resources are not just for learning—they are tools for healing. They allow children to explore stories of strength, imagination, and survival, and to find pieces of themselves in each tale.

Children who grow up in traumatic or unstable environments often struggle with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and emotional withdrawal. These issues cannot be ignored—and we are committed to addressing them head-on.

Empowering Mental and Emotional Well-being

At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we know that education alone is not enough. That’s why we place a strong emphasis on emotional well-being and mental support. Our teams maintain regular communication between children, ambassadors, and caregivers to create a circle of support and listening.

Through shared stories, meaningful dialogue, and personalized care, we work to remind each child that they are not alone. That their voices matter. And that despite the uncertainty outside, within our care, they are safe, valued, and seen.

As we continue to navigate the challenges facing Myanmar, our Foundation remains devoted to protecting the light within every orphaned child—and to ensuring that their future is one of resilience, growth, and hope.