YouthEmpowerment – Mary K Yap Foundation

Tag: YouthEmpowerment

November 16, 2025

My Way to Sketch and Hope

The Mary K. Yap Foundation proudly kickoff its inaugural #SketchandHope program, part of our inspiring “Art Is My Voice” campaign for the underserved children.

On November 16, 2025, the Mary K. Yap Foundation proudly launched its first Sketch and Hope art program at the Galilee Foundation Church and Children’s Home for Orphan Youths in Shwe Pyi Thar, Myanmar—an inspiring milestone in our mission to empower orphaned children through education, creativity, and emotional development.

This inaugural program welcomed 38 children, who spent the day exploring drawing, painting, and imaginative expression under the guidance of distinguished instructors: Artist Than Thar, Artist Han Thar, and Artist May San.

Art is more than a creative activity—it is a powerful tool that helps orphaned and disadvantaged children build confidence, process emotions, and discover their inner strengths. Through color, shapes, and storytelling, children learn to communicate feelings they may not yet have the words to express. Creative exercises strengthen emotional resilience, improve focus, reduce stress, and encourage problem-solving and self-belief. During the program, many children proudly shared their artwork for the first time, demonstrating how an open, supportive environment can unlock courage, curiosity, and hope.

Children taking their first leap of faith in Sketch and Hope

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Pastor Saw Pyae Wa, Founder of the Children Development Center since 2015, for warmly welcoming our team. This marks our third community engagement with Pastor Saw, each one bringing renewed excitement and joy to the children under his care. Meme Lwin, our Orphanage Ambassador, expressed the significance of this return visit, sharing:

Every time we return, the children’s faces light up with recognition and comfort. It shows them that they are not forgotten—our presence reminds them that they are valued, supported, and deeply cherished.”

The Foundation is also deeply grateful to Mr. Christope Felix, a French philanthropist who has lived in Myanmar for more than three decades. His generosity and compassionate presence played a pivotal role in making this milestone possible. We also extend sincere thanks to our Intern Bethany Snyder from Pennsylvania, USA, who traveled to Myanmar with the heartfelt intention of encouraging and inspiring orphaned youth. Reflecting on her experience, Bethany shared,

“I’m getting the hang of this!”

Their smiles reminded me that creativity is a universal language—one that brings hope, healing, and connection no matter where we come from.”

Our appreciation further extends to our three dedicated artists, whose passion and guidance created a nurturing and memorable learning environment for every participant. Their commitment to using art as a bridge to confidence and imagination enriched the entire experience.

Artist Than Thar

Artist May San

Artist Han Thar

This initiative underscores the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—promoting Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, Reduced Inequalities, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and Partnerships for the Goals. The generous funding that powers the Sketch and Hope initiatives is made possible through the cherished support of our friends, family members, and business partners, whose compassion enables the Foundation to respond swiftly to essential needs and expand educational access for children in care.

Welcoming the First Batch of Children from Gailleo home for Orphan Youths

Looking ahead, the Foundation plans to establish a sustainable, ongoing Sketch and Hope learning program at the Galilee Foundation Church and Children’s Home for Orphan Youths, ensuring consistent access to meaningful art education for disadvantaged children. Together, we remain committed to nurturing creativity, unlocking potential, and building opportunities that can transform young lives for generations to come.

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CORPORATE NEWS

October 24, 2025

First Time Computer Learning

The Foundation proudly announces the first successful #Road2Digital alliance with Alpha Education Center

October 24, 2025 – San Francisco, CA, USA – The collaboration was made possible through the introduction of Monsieur Christophe Félix, a long-time French philanthropist residing in Myanmar, and his partner Valérie, both of whom share our commitment to expanding access to education.

Founded by Ms. Kim Hnam, a Chin national and Dagon University graduate, Alpha Education Center has provided care and education to underprivileged children for over a decade. Located in Twantay Township, about 50 kilometers from Yangon, the center houses and supports 18 children alongside Ms. Kim’s family, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages both academic and personal growth.

Through the Foundation’s Campaign 3 #Road2Digital initiative, the Foundation—together with KMD Computer Learning Center, a leader in computer education with over 30 years of experience—conducted a three-day basic computer course for 10 students aged 12–17, with participation from a headmaster and Pastor Daniel Van Lal Suan from Joyful Orphanage. Meme Lwin, the Foundation’s Volunteering Program Manager, stayed on-site throughout the program to ensure that lessons delivered by KMD’s professional instructors were accessible and easily followed by all participants.

First Day Computer Basic Lessons

Despite challenges such as heavy rains and intermittent power outages, the program successfully introduced essential digital skills, including MS Office, internet navigation, and email communication, inspiring confidence and curiosity in technology.

The Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Philip Charlesworth of the USAID-funded Agriculture and Food Systems Development Activity (ACDI/VOCA), our B2B partner Mandalay Productions Myanmar, and Ms. Meme Lwin for their generous donations of laptops and air conditioners, which made the computer sessions both possible and comfortable for the children. We also extend special thanks to Mr. Jay Edwin, one of our dedicated Country Orphanage Ambassadors, for his support in issuing the Certificates of Achievement to students who successfully completed the three-day training course. These collective contributions play a vital role in advancing the Foundation’s mission to empower orphanages with practical learning resources and greater digital access.

Commencement of First Day Computer Basic Lessons

One participating student reflected,

“Before this course, I was afraid of using a computer. Now, I feel confident, and it feels like my world is much bigger. I can see new opportunities for learning and for my future.”

This initiative underscores the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable access to quality education. The generous funding that powers the #Road2Digital initiatives is made possible through the cherished support of our friends, family members, and business partners, whose compassion enables the Foundation to respond swiftly to essential needs and expand access to education for children in care.

Looking ahead, the Foundation plans to establish a sustainable computer learning program at Alpha Education Center, ensuring continued access to digital education and empowering the next generation to share their knowledge within their local communities.

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

December 28, 2024

Serenitee Yap visits Myittamon

A Homecoming of the Heart: Serenitee Yap’s Christmas Visit to the Orphanage

Hwabi, Yangon, Myanmar – We are overjoyed to share the heartfelt visit of Serenitee Ayobamidele Yap, who returned from San Francisco this Christmas season for a deeply meaningful reunion with one of the orphanage communities she has long represented as a Children’s Orphanage Ambassador with the Foundation. After eight years of living in Yangon, Serenitee’s return was a personal journey and a decisive moment of reconnection with the children who had always held a special place in her heart since her first visit to Myittamone Orphanage when she was 11. Accompanied by her fellow Ambassador Meme Lwin, Serenitee arrived at Myittarmone in the early afternoon, warmly greeted by the joyful smiles of the girls. What followed was an unforgettable day of bonding, laughter, and heartfelt exchanges that brought a sense of unity and compassion to everyone involved.

Serenitee, Ambassador Meme, and Myittarmon Girls

Throughout the day, Serenitee and Meme immersed themselves in the orphanage’s vibrant rhythm—singing classic Christmas songs with the children, taking quiet time-outs for personal conversations, and sparking inspiration through music. Serenitee shared her passion for the piano, explaining how its melodies became a source of comfort and creativity during her upbringing. With tenderness and patience, she offered the girls their first piano lessons, leaving behind the basics of music theory and the belief that beauty and expression can be found even in the simplest of keys. Her gentle encouragement filled the room with excitement and curiosity, leaving a lasting impression on the children who had never seen a piano played up close before by a person who had grown up playing piano since the age of 5.

The experience extended far beyond music and festivities. Serenitee was deeply moved by the behind-the-scenes realities of daily life at the orphanage, especially in the cooking area, where meals are prepared using traditional methods. She admired as the sisters stirred a massive rice pot over a wood fire, the smoky air carrying the aroma of a meal prepared with love and devotion. It was a powerful contrast to the fast-paced lifestyle of the West and gave Serenitee new insight into the strength, resilience, and simplicity that define the children’s everyday experiences. She took the time to learn about the girls’ routines, appreciating the discipline and care involved in every part of their day.

As night fell, the girls gathered in a large circle before bedtime, a cherished tradition of the Foundation where every orphaned child is asked to share stories, hopes, and dreams. That evening, they requested Serenitee to talk about her life growing up in the United States—a moment filled with emotion, laughter, and reflection. Serenitee’s stories reminded them that connection and understanding are always possible, even across oceans and vastly different circumstances. Hosted by Sister Mary Sagaya and supported by four dedicated sisters from the Archdiocese of Yangon, the orphanage radiates warmth, care, and commitment. In Serenitee’s words, “Being here tonight reminds me that love knows no boundaries, and hope can be nurtured anywhere—especially when we listen, share, and believe in one another.” Her visit was not just a holiday homecoming but a powerful reminder of the bonds that tie us together, no matter where we are.

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CORPORATE NEWS

December 10, 2024

A Charity Film Premieres

Myanmar Premiere of Unbroken Ties aka Myittar Celebrates a Landmark Night of Charity, Cinema, and Community

The Mary K. Yap Foundation, in proud collaboration with Mandalay Productions and a network of esteemed B2B corporate partners, successfully launched the Myanmar country premiere of Unbroken Ties aka Myittar—an award-winning film created with a purpose far beyond entertainment. Held at the prestigious Tamada Movie Theater in Yangon, the 780-seat venue was filled with supporters, family members, and special guests, including 80 orphaned children from our partner home, St. Mary’s. Their presence served as a heartfelt reminder of the film’s mission: to amplify awareness and support for Myanmar’s orphaned communities through the unifying power of storytelling.

Dr. Grace Swe Zin Htaike at the Premiere in Yangon

The red carpet premiere welcomed distinguished members from the Archdiocese of Yangon, Academy Myanmar Award-winning directors, and respected actors and actresses from Myanmar’s entertainment circles. Their attendance elevated the event’s cultural significance and showcased strong intergenerational support for youth empowerment and humanitarian cinema. The event drew the attention of more than 20 prominent media outlets, all eager to document a historic evening dedicated to social impact, artistic achievement, and community unity. Unbroken Ties, aka Myittar, has already garnered critical acclaim internationally, receiving 11 awards across global film festivals—including two Audience Choice Awards—further underscoring its universal resonance and emotional depth.

“We are humbled by the overwhelming response to our Myanmar premiere,” said Peter K. Yap, Executive Director of the Mary K. Yap Foundation. “Unbroken Ties is not just a film—it’s a movement born from compassion. With every scene, we aim to open hearts and raise awareness for orphaned children who deserve hope, love, and a brighter future. This premiere marks a powerful step forward in uniting culture, philanthropy, and cinematic excellence for the greater good.”

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of staff members and volunteers from both the Foundation and Mandalay Productions worked tirelessly to ensure every detail of the premiere evening was filled with joy, hospitality, and meaningful connections. From guest coordination and ushering to technical support and media relations, their efforts created an atmosphere of warmth and professionalism that left a lasting impression on all attendees. The event also served as a platform to announce future collaborations and philanthropic campaigns that will continue uplifting vulnerable communities through education, arts, and sustainable support.

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CORPORATE NEWS

July 25, 2023

Volunteers Lending a Hand

TThe “Lending a Hand” program offers life-enriching volunteer opportunities for inspired young adults, university students, and global citizens who are eager to make a meaningful impact. Sponsored and organized by the Mary K. Yap Foundation, this program welcomes compassionate individuals to serve orphanage communities in Myanmar through short-term assignments lasting three to six months. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting various areas such as event coordination, donor relations, administrative tasks, and virtual assistance.

Warm gestures from Volunteers – 2017 XMas Holiday

Participants will work closely with the Foundation’s management team and Orphanage Ambassadors to implement innovative development programs. Volunteer engagements range from spending weekends at registered orphanages and teaching English to participating in the Teddy Bears for Hugs campaign and performing cultural shows at charity concerts. Additional opportunities include sponsoring a child with as little as a dollar a day or serving as an Orphan Ambassador to promote sustainability efforts. Volunteers are assigned to specific orphanages based on project needs and timelines, with additional opportunities to participate in field activities focused on education and health development for underserved youth.

#The mission of the Mary K. Yap Foundation is to strengthen and build orphanage communities by equipping them with the resources they need to care for vulnerable children. We are proud to partner with individuals who demonstrate a strong sense of social responsibility and are committed to empowering the next generation. Through their involvement, volunteers gain pride and purpose by helping children who depend on these centers for daily support. Every moment dedicated by our volunteers contributes to improving the lives of orphaned children across Myanmar.

At the conclusion of their service, volunteers will be presented with a special award of appreciation from the Mary K. Yap Foundation. Select individuals will also be honored at one of our signature fundraising dinners as recipients of the Foundation’s Global Citizen Award, recognizing their heartfelt dedication and generous efforts. If you’re ready to take part in this meaningful journey, we invite you to our Volunteer Sign-Up Form and become our Volunteer and share your love.

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Tag: YouthEmpowerment

My Way to Sketch and Hope

**The Mary K. Yap Foundation proudly kickoff its inaugural #SketchandHope program, part of our inspiring “Art Is My Voice” campaign for the underserved children.**

Every time we return, the children’s faces light up with recognition and comfort. It shows them that they are not forgotten—our presence reminds them that they are valued, supported, and deeply cherished.”

Their smiles reminded me that creativity is a universal language—one that brings hope, healing, and connection no matter where we come from.”

First Time Computer Learning

The Foundation proudly announces the first successful #Road2Digital alliance with Alpha Education Center

2ND DAY

3RD DAY GRADUATION

Serenitee Yap visits Myittamon

A Charity Film Premieres

Volunteers Lending a Hand

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