09May2025

Making a Difference Building Dreams Creating Impact Saving Lives

logotype

No products in the cart.

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: Myanmar Orphans

22 by 10 feet Thank you banner (Isma)
CORPORATE NEWS

Partners of Hope: United for All Orphans

Partners of Hope: United for All Orphans

San Francisco, CA – The Mary K. Yap Foundation is honored to announce a powerful and purpose-driven collaboration with our Partners of Hope, including Corporate Partners and Social and Religious Development Organizations, all coming together in solidarity to support the Movie for Charity Project. This heartfelt initiative aims to enhance the well-being of orphaned children worldwide, utilizing the arts and storytelling to raise awareness and inspire action. The initiatives with our partners support the upcoming home premiere of Myittar, also known as Unbroken Ties, which will be showcased in nationwide theaters. The Foundation celebrates this cinematic moment as more than just a premiere—it is a call to compassion and a rallying point for those who believe in the dignity and future of every orphaned child.

The Mary K. Yap Foundation leads this impactful initiative in collaboration with Mandalay Productions, a visionary movie production house committed to socially responsible storytelling. The Foundation is proud to recognize World Trade Center Yangon as a Platinum Sponsor whose steadfast support has helped bring this charitable mission to life. Equally vital are the contributions of respected organizations, such as the Archdiocese of Yangon, the Myanmar Orphan Children Association, the Bamboo Congress, MyMe USA, and the Burmese American Catholic Fellowship, which is supported under the auspices of the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Their involvement reflects the depth of faith-based and humanitarian commitment across local and disadvantaged communities.

The Foundation also extends its deepest appreciation to our business-to-business (B2B) partners, who have so graciously aligned their brand values with our service mission. Their support amplifies our ability to reach more children, provide them with more resources, and elevate the voices of those who are often unheard. Among the many notable sponsors are Unilever, ABank, Blazon, Excellence, YTL Foundation, KPay, Ipanema Kids, Sedona Hotel, Kui Shin Bo, Clinique, Yangon Trade and Convention Center, CODISA Foundation, Taungi Hotel, and Cambium Networks. These companies have exemplified a spirit of generosity and corporate responsibility that stands as a model for meaningful partnership.

Finally, we recognize the individuals who form the heart of this movement—those whose personal acts of giving have made a profound difference. We thank Dr. Aung, Ko Alf, Peter Wong, Seeni Mohammed, Dr. Su, Auntie Thet, Christophe, and the many devoted friends and family members who have become our Partners of Hope. Your compassion for voiceless and vulnerable children has breathed life into this film and the cause it represents. We are especially grateful to our orphanage ambassadors worldwide, including MeMe Lwin, Enrico Domingo, and Jay Edwin, as well as to all our passionate volunteers who have given their time and effort to benefit the children we serve. We appreciate their dedication and advocacy for the orphaned youths we support. Through Myittar (Unbroken Ties), we not only share a powerful story—we share a collective message of love, resilience, and hope that transcends borders and reminds us of the impact we can have when we stand together for those in need.

17) title
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Distinguished Guests Attend Private Screening of Charity Film at Mega Ace Cinema

Distinguished Guests Attend Private Screening of Charity Film at Mega Ace Cinema

Yangon, Myanmar – We are honored to share the success of a special private screening of our Movie for Charity, held at Mega Ace Cinema and hosted by the Mary K. Yap Foundation in collaboration with Mandalay Productions. This heartfelt event occurred before the nationwide commercial release of Myanmar’s first charity-dedicated film, which is set to premiere in theaters nationwide on December 13, 2024. The screening offered an intimate and meaningful gathering that united distinguished diplomatic and nonprofit community members.

Among the notable guests in attendance were representatives from the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and several members of the diplomatic corps stationed in Myanmar. Their presence not only elevated the occasion but also reinforced the shared global commitment to championing the rights and futures of vulnerable children. The event was a powerful platform to highlight the film’s mission—raising awareness and funds for advancing orphaned children through education, wellness, and long-term empowerment.

Heartfelt exchanges, reflections, and a renewed unity around a shared cause marked the evening. Over light refreshments and a moving film presentation, guests had the opportunity to learn more about the foundation’s work and how the upcoming film serves as both a creative and charitable milestone for Myanmar. More than just a cinematic experience, the screening served as a call to action for those with the means and compassion to uplift those often left behind.

“As we prepare for the film’s public debut, this evening reminds us of the profound impact that art, community, and purpose can create when aligned,” said Peter K. Yap, Executive Director of the Mary K. Yap Foundation. “This film was made with love, driven by purpose, and fueled by the belief that every orphaned child deserves the opportunity to dream and thrive.” We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who attended and stood with us in this vital mission. Together, we are lighting the path forward—one story, one child, and one act of kindness at a time.

TIMELINE MF (12)
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Charity Film Campaign Takes Center Stage at St. Augustine Church Event

Charity Film Campaign Takes Center Stage at St. Augustine Church Event

Bahan, Yangon, Myanmar – We are excited to announce our joyful participation in the Charity Bazaar at St. Augustine Catholic Church this Sweet December—a heartfelt annual tradition that unites people from all walks of life in the spirit of giving. The event brought together a diverse and compassionate group of church members, community leaders, embassy representatives, and NGO partners, all eager to contribute to meaningful causes that uplift and inspire. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, purpose, and the unmistakable energy of a community working together toward a better tomorrow.

Throughout the day, a wide range of exhibitors showcased their charitable missions—each booth representing a shared commitment to service, from supporting displaced families and vulnerable children to promoting education, health, and empowerment in underserved communities. Visitors came not only to enjoy the festivities but with a clear intent to support and engage. Many generously offered their time, donations, and heartfelt encouragement, reminding us all that change begins with kindness and collective action. Their presence underscored the beauty of a community that gathers and gives with open hearts.

The Foundation was proud to be among the exhibitors, using this vibrant platform to promote the upcoming release of our charity film—a creative endeavor rooted in advocacy for orphaned children in Myanmar. With the support of more than 15 dedicated volunteers, our team passionately shared the mission behind the project, raising awareness and fostering meaningful conversations. Thanks to their tireless efforts and the overwhelming generosity of attendees, we successfully sold over 100 presale tickets to the film, with all proceeds going directly toward our initiatives for the welfare, education, and empowerment of orphaned youth.

This event was more than a fundraiser—it was a celebration of shared purpose, a reminder that extraordinary things can happen when communities come together with compassion and intent. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Charity Bazaar organizers, every visitor who stopped by our booth, and our incredible volunteers who helped make our campaign a success. We look forward to continuing this journey and invite everyone to stay connected as we approach the film’s official release, marking the next chapter in our mission to bring hope and opportunity to those who need it most.

10) October 19, 2024 – SVAPFF Day 2 0175 (1)
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Charity Film Premieres in California at SVAPFF with Support from the Burmese American Community

Charity Film Premieres in California at SVAPFF with Support from the Burmese American Community

Santa Clara, CA, USA – In a moving display of unity and compassion, Foundation Founder Mary K. Yap and devoted patrons from the Burmese American Catholic Fellowship (BACF)—under the Archdiocese of San Francisco and led by Father Rick Vandewater—graced the California premiere of Unbroken Ties, a powerful charity film dedicated to bringing hope and support to orphaned children in Myanmar. Held during the 10th annual Silicon Valley Asian Pacific Film Festival (SVAPFF), the premiere marked a profound moment for the Burmese diaspora and local supporters, uniting communities in a shared mission of love, remembrance, and global responsibility. The event was completely sold out and drew a diverse audience, including friends, family members, and members of the broader Asian American community.

The Mary K. Yap Foundation, in collaboration with Mandalay Productions, proudly supported Unbroken Ties as part of its global Hope for All Orphans initiative. The film, written by Mary K. Yap and directed by award-winning filmmaker Graham Streeter, tells a profoundly human story that resonates across cultures and borders. It also featured unit direction by Myanmar’s own Grace Swe Zin Htaik, an Academy Award-winning actress and cultural icon, whose involvement lent even greater significance to the project. This creative team brought to life a cinematic expression of resilience, identity, and the enduring strength of children left behind by conflict and loss.

The film’s screening at SVAPFF was not only a creative milestone but a cultural one, as it represented the festival’s ongoing commitment to spotlighting compelling stories by and about the Asian American experience. Unbroken Ties joined a robust lineup of works that gave voice to underrepresented communities, celebrating their struggles and triumphs. While rooted in Myanmar’s orphan crisis, the festival provided an ideal platform for a film that conveys a universal message of hope, healing, and solidarity. This milestone marked the tenth festival appearance for the film, further expanding its reach to audiences committed to global humanitarian efforts through the arts.

Importantly, the premiere brought together the Burmese American community from across the San Francisco Bay Area, reaffirming their role in elevating this humanitarian message to an international stage. Their presence and participation helped amplify the Hope for All Orphans projects, which continue to advocate for the educational and emotional well-being of orphaned children in Myanmar and beyond. As the Foundation looks ahead to future screenings and campaigns, the California premiere is a testament to what can be achieved when storytelling, community engagement, and compassion intersect with purpose and action.

main-title-12
CORPORATE NEWS

#OrphanRelief Campaign Brings Urgent Aid to Typhoon Yagi Survivors in Taungoo

#OrphanRelief Campaign Brings Urgent Aid to Typhoon Yagi Survivors in Taungoo

In early September 2024, Typhoon Yagi made landfall in Myanmar, unleashing one of the worst natural disasters the country has faced in decades. The storm struck on September 9, bringing torrential rains and widespread flooding that devastated both urban centers and rural communities. Between September 10 and 13, Yagi’s remnants swept through the nation with relentless force, submerging crops and plantations, destroying homes, and displacing hundreds of thousands across 60 townships. The scale of destruction was catastrophic, leaving countless vulnerable children and families in dire need of emergency relief.

Responding with urgency and compassion, the Mary K Yap Foundation’s Orphanage Ambassador, Meme Lwin, and a committed team of in-country volunteers visited three heavily impacted orphanage homes in the Taungoo area. They hand-delivered food, medicine, and emergency donations, providing immediate support and comfort to children who had lost nearly everything. Their presence on the ground during such a critical time reinforced the Foundation’s promise to stand by orphaned communities when they need it most. This mission was a lifeline for those in need and a powerful reminder that no child is forgotten. The team’s dedication inspires hope and resilience in the hearts of the children and caregivers.

Thanks to the swift generosity of donors and the unwavering commitment of the Mary K Yap Foundation’s network of friends and partners, the OrphanRelief campaign raised over USD 3,200 within its first week. These funds played a pivotal role in our early response efforts. Beyond providing aid, the campaign has become a beacon of hope, showing that even in the face of immense hardship, compassion and unity can light the way forward.

main image (1)
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

KKIFF 2024 Asian Premiere of Unbroken Ties Inspires Global Support for Orphaned Children

KKIFF 2024 Asian Premiere of Unbroken Ties Inspires Global Support for Orphaned Children

Kota Kinabalu, Borneo, Malaysia – As part of the 15th anniversary celebration of the Kota Kinabalu International Film Festival (KKIFF) held on September 10, 2024, the Mary K. Yap Foundation, in collaboration with Mandalay Productions—our official movie production partner—proudly premiered the Asian screening of Unbroken Ties, a powerful charity film created to raise awareness and inspire action for the well-being of orphaned children. The screening served as a heartfelt platform to highlight how storytelling can serve as a force for social change, particularly in advancing support for vulnerable communities in Myanmar.

Just a 2-hour and 45-minute flight from Myanmar, Kota Kinabalu offered a fitting setting for this significant occasion. KKIFF Founder Jude Day warmly welcomed the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s Executive Director, Mr. Peter K. Yap, who also served as Executive Producer of Unbroken Ties, along with an inspiring group of guests and festival patrons. In attendance were representatives from Good Shepherd Services, the Kota Kinabalu Women’s Business and Entrepreneur Association, and the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church administration team, all of whom brought a shared passion for humanitarian efforts and regional collaboration. Their presence added great meaning to the event, underscoring the importance of unity, compassion, and cross-cultural dialogue. The evening served as a powerful reminder of how film and community can come together to spark change and foster lasting relationships across borders.

The festival served as a gateway for meaningful dialogue, as leaders and partners explored ways to collaborate with the Mary K. Yap Foundation to strengthen initiatives supporting orphaned children, particularly in Myanmar. From access to clean water and education to emotional and social development, the conversations focused on long-term solutions that foster empowerment and hope. The premiere of Unbroken Ties was not just a cinematic event—it was a powerful call to unity and compassion, rooted in purpose and shared vision.

Main image 10
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Charity in Action: Yangon Bazaar Sparks Support for Orphaned Children

Charity in Action: Yangon Bazaar Sparks Support for Orphaned Children

Yangon, Myanmar – The first annual Charity Bazaar, hosted by St. Augustine Catholic Church, was a vibrant, one-day event filled with compassion, community spirit, and a shared purpose. The Foundation participated with a dedicated booth, connecting with attendees and sharing our mission to uplift orphaned children across Myanmar through our social development programs. The atmosphere was lively and heartfelt, with visitors from diverse backgrounds coming together for a meaningful cause

During the event, the Foundation successfully recruited over 80 new volunteers who expressed genuine enthusiasm for lending their support to a noble cause. These passionate individuals are now part of a growing movement dedicated to supporting the advancement and well-being of orphaned children throughout Myanmar. In addition to volunteer sign-ups, we took the opportunity to proudly promote the upcoming charity film, Myittar, a heartfelt production sponsored by the Foundation in collaboration with our production partner, Mandalay Productions. The film was created to raise awareness and support for children in need.

The bazaar was also a rich gathering of like-minded exhibitors and community members. We engaged with other organizations promoting humanitarian initiatives and enjoyed the warm company of booth operators selling nourishing meals and traditional Burmese delicacies. The day not only strengthened our network of support but also deepened our resolve to build brighter futures for the children we serve.

7) Title
CORPORATE NEWS

H20Hope: Campaign Goals for a Healthy Clean Water

H20Hope:  Campaign Goals for a Healthy Clean Water

San Francisco, CA, USA – The Foundation is proud to introduce Campaign 8: H20Hope, a bold step forward in our mission to protect and uplift orphaned children through sustainable access to clean water. Set to launch in 2025, this heartfelt campaign will focus on delivering safe drinking water, enhancing sanitation infrastructure, and promoting hygiene education within orphanages across underserved regions. Our work will begin in Myanmar, where over 100 registered orphanages face daily struggles to access clean water, including eight orphanages we visited over the past year, highlighting the most urgent needs. Clean water is a basic necessity and a gift of dignity, health, and hope for a better tomorrow.

H20Hope is part of our enduring commitment to advancing the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, with a special focus on Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Every child deserves the right to safe, accessible water, yet today, too many orphaned children live with the constant risks of unsafe water and poor sanitation. Through H20Hope, we respond with action and compassion, determined to bridge this gap and build a foundation of health and opportunity for the children who need it most. Our vision for H20Hope is made possible through the spirit of collaboration. By partnering with donors, strategic partners, and caring communities, we can make clean water more than just a dream – it can become a shared reality. More than installing wells or building systems, this campaign will empower orphanages with hygiene education and long-term maintenance support, creating a cycle of resilience and hope that lasts for generations.

With H20Hope, we are doing far more than quenching thirst—we are nurturing futures. Each drop we deliver echoes with the promise of health, opportunity, and a life free from preventable hardship. Together, we can build a world where every orphaned child in Myanmar, and beyond, wakes up with fresh water, renewed hope, and a future filled with endless possibilities.

CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS 5
CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS

H2OHope: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives

Introducing the Mary K Yap Foundation’s H2OHope Campaign: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives

At the Mary K Yap Foundation, we proudly announce the launch of our groundbreaking H2OHope Campaign: Fresh Starts, Clean Water for Orphaned Lives Campaign. This visionary initiative represents a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to improving the lives of orphanage communities worldwide. With a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of access to clean and sustainable water, our campaign aims to achieve dual objectives essential for the holistic well-being of these vulnerable populations.

Our primary focus is to establish reliable and safe water sources, ensuring that orphanages have continuous access to clean water for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and other essential needs. We are dedicated to promoting comprehensive water education programs that empower orphanage residents with essential knowledge and skills in water hygiene practices, sanitation, and conservation. Through this multifaceted approach, we strive to create lasting positive change and improve the overall health and quality of life for orphanage communities around the globe.

Key Challenges and Solutions:
  1. Access to Safe and Sustainable Water Sources: One of the critical challenges orphanage communities’ faces is the lack of access to clean and safe water sources. Many orphanages rely on contaminated water, leading to waterborne diseases and health complications among children and staff. To address this challenge, the H2OHope Campaign will work towards implementing sustainable solutions such as water purification systems, well drilling or repairs, and rainwater harvesting systems. By providing reliable access to clean water sources, we aim to improve orphanage communities’ overall health and well-being.
  2. Water Education and Hygiene Promotion: Another critical challenge is the lack of water education and hygiene promotion practices within orphanage communities. Children and caregivers are at risk of waterborne diseases without proper education on handwashing, safe water storage, and basic sanitation measures. Our campaign will focus on educating orphanage communities about the importance of hygiene and sanitation through workshops, training sessions, and educational materials. By empowering orphanage communities with knowledge, we aim to reduce waterborne diseases, improve overall health outcomes, and foster a culture of cleanliness and hygiene.
Our Plan of Action:

The Mary K Yap Foundation and our non-profit partners are committed to taking decisive action to address these water sanitation challenges. Our plan of action for the next three years (covering 2024 to 2026) includes the following work for orphanages in three phases:

      • Collaborating with local communities and experts to assess water needs and implement sustainable solutions.
      • Providing financial support and resources to install water purification systems, repair wells, and establish rainwater harvesting systems.
      • Conducting water education workshops and hygiene promotion campaigns to empower orphanage communities with knowledge and skills.
      • Monitoring and evaluating the impact of our interventions to ensure long-term sustainability and positive outcomes for orphanage communities.

Join us in our fundraising campaign #H20Hope to transform lives through clean water. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of orphaned children and contribute to a healthier and brighter future for all.

CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS 7
CAMPAIGN STANDOUTS

High School Diploma Program: Empowering Orphaned Students for a Brighter Future

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.