Destiny - believe in it, or not; one Singaporean did.
It led Linus Lin to the top of Mount Kyaiktiyo, or “Golden Rock”, in Mon State, Myanmar on 21st December 2012 — as a child, he had thought he would climb to the top of a mountain and witness “the end of the world” on that very date.
But the world did not end. Instead, that profound experience started a chain reaction, of good. One that would change the course of his life and, eventually, that of hundreds of children in Myanmar.
Making his way down the mountain, Linus had passed two boys trying to fish.
“A man walked by holding a plastic bag containing bread. He called the two boys over and gave the bag of bread to them. He continued up the mountain empty-handed.
“I was thinking, I have enough money to buy a container-load of bread, but what have I done? Yet, this man gave everything he had to the kids.
“Perhaps it was time for me to do something. Myanmar was calling to me.”
Linus wasted no time. Over the next 12 months, he started finding ways to help people living in impoverished villages. As an educator, he saw the value of providing the kids with a good education.
“There’s this thought in me that somewhere hidden in the village lies this group of people who are meant to be great people, waiting for the right set of conditions.
“These are the people who will eventually become leaders of the community. I want to play a part in this life-changing process of the kids. One way is to help them pass their high school exams. They can get better jobs and better pay. And that’s how things can improve in their village.”
From Singapore, he would also collect donations of clothes, food and educational materials and bring these to Myanmar as often as he could.
But shuttling between Singapore and Myanmar disrupted his efforts.
“It came to a point that I realised I am not as effective as I wanted,” he says. “When I’m not in Myanmar, nothing is happening. I am thinking maybe it’s a good idea to have a partner in Myanmar.”
Destiny smiled, once again.
During a visit to an orphanage in Myanmar he met English teacher Joseph Bu Shwe.
Recalls Joseph, “Meeting Linus, it’s like a prayer is answered. My dream was helping people, the poor, the needy, the community, orphans. We talked a lot about education. How to help more and more children.”
The young man had himself come from a single-parent family. His father died when he was 10 years old, and in order to get a proper education, he had to move to live in an orphanage in Yangon, away from his mother and siblings. His dream was to eventually go to university.
“It’s a great thing to have a degree in one’s life. And if those children they don’t pass their exams, they are not a degree holder, they will always be manual or basic workers. I really hope for children to be a graduate.”
It was Linus who eventually supported Joseph’s university education, more than a decade after he finished his secondary education.
“He just enrolled into university, but had difficulties paying the fees,” explains Linus. “He said that if he really couldn’t afford it, he would stop and wait until he could and then go back.”
This resilience and never-say-die attitude impressed Linus.
“I find Joseph trustworthy, hardworking and resourceful. He doesn’t give up, no matter how old, he just wants to get a university degree. If I were to look for a person who can carry the message of education, this is the right guy. Joseph will be the arms and legs.”
In 2014, both officially named their initiative Global Village for Hope. With the help of local partners, the registered philanthropic foundation has since provided financial and educational support to more than 200 children in 17 foster homes on the outskirts of Yangon and in Chin State.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Beacon of Hope in Myanmar
Six year ago, educator Linus Lin from Singapore knew that starting Global Village for Hope (GVH) would see education pave a way forward for the youth of Myanmar, and shape the future of their country. The stars aligned in 2014 when Linus founded GVH with his Myanmar-based counterpart Joseph Bu Shwe and the organisation has since helped 350 children through its bursary and educational programmes.
Our Better World (OBW) published their inspiring story in 2018, which generated close to 899,000 views. “The OBW video was like nitro in a racing car,” describes Linus, which he believes helped increase the awareness of GVH’s initiatives.
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
Joseph quizzing young minds at a GVH foster home to assess candidates for their bursary fund. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Their first GVH bursary beneficiary — 21-year-old Zaw Mar Wu - is a testament to how that vision has started to take root. Currently studying graphic design at a private learning centre, whilst completing her final year at a local university in Yangon, Mar Wu’s quiet confidence belies a journey through depression, illness and separation from her family.
Mar Wu at her graphics design learning centre. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Originally from Northern Myanmar, she left her family at 13 years old, due to civil unrest, to travel to Yangon in search of a better life. She ended up at an orphanage on the outskirts of the capital. Her ambition to become a doctor and help her family drove her to study diligently for her high school exams, but she failed, despite her best efforts, much to the surprise of her foster family. Being one of the orphanages adopted by GVH in 2014, news of her plight alerted Linus that more was needed to help kids like Mar Wu.
“To me, she is someone who is willing to and will work hard. Her progress is just obstructed by some external factors that can be solved by us,” he says.
In 2015, when Mar Wu and Linus first met, shortly after her 1st high school exam. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Once Linus realised that financial and mental support, proper nutrition, and a conducive study environment were also factors that determined the success of a student, he raised funds to provide basic necessities like food and water, as well as a bursary for kids who showed promise. Linus raised US$370 for the first bursary fund that covered one year of Mar Wu’s school fees, and for a bicycle to reduce her travel time to classes. She used to walk 45 minutes, often in the rain, to school, so GVH’s assistance meant “she didn’t have to worry about money and could focus on her studies.”
The following year, she retook her exams and passed all six of her subjects.
Mar Wu will always be thankful for GVH’s contributions: “Many doors opened for me because of this programme. Once I passed my high school exams, I managed to go to university and received many job offers.”
Mar Wu on one of her visits back to her foster home. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Encouraged by the success of their first bursary recipient, they started a yearly bursary fund which now includes daily tuition, books, stationery, and a set of school uniforms for one academic year. From supporting 30 kids in 2018, when OBW told their story, GVH has grown in strength the year after - funding 40 kids.
In 2020, the intention was to help even more youth. However, COVID-19 put a dampener on their efforts as funds have been harder to raise. Of the original target of US$30,500, GVH only managed to garner US$22,470 (from GVH’s collective donation drive) as of August 2020. The temporary closure of schools also made it necessary for GVH to delay the 2020 bursary programme. They hope to obtain the remaining US$8,030 in 2021, in order to fund 60 kids through school.
Kids in a GVH foster home receiving bags of rice. GVH provides 60 sacks of rice (or 3000kg) to about 350 kids on a monthly basis. Photo courtesy of GVH.
Schools have been closed since the pandemic started and come April, kids would have skipped almost a year of schooling as the government continues to debate the reopening of schools. Undeterred by this, GVH continues to provide assistance by delivering sacks of rice to 350 kids on a monthly basis; they even built a new well for a village, constructed a water tank for a children’s home, started a music initiative to keep the kids enriched, and kickstarted a new skills development programme to help older youth who could not pass high school.
Joseph conducting a class for the next generation of Myanmar. Photo courtesy of GVH.
“Education is still a priority,” says a determined Linus, “and everything we do goes back to that. I believe in the ripple effect, and that someone will be affected by that ripple. An educated person can feed a family of 10. It enables them to stand on their own feet. Many of these disadvantaged children we are helping are willing to work hard but circumstances limit their access to educational materials, school uniforms and tuition opportunities. By supporting their bursaries, it is to help them level the playing field by a little.”
For Mar Wu, her future shines bright. She represents the hope for a new generation, especially for the kids from her previous foster home, whom she advises regularly.
“Study very hard. Be obedient, be smart. The world is open to you, so you must make the best of it.”
This includes an annual bursary programme that pays for tuition fees, school uniforms and materials to students, who go that extra mile in their studies.
“It’s meant to celebrate effort. When I see them improve just by a little bit, year by year, it’s a very happy feeling. It’s like a jewel trying to sparkle,” Linus says, beaming.
Adds Joseph: “We hope that we will be able to help many more children, community, people. We hope that one day we’ll have a training centre for youth.”
“Every child should be treated well. We can do something unusual for them, and they will understand their own life and be willing to work hard for their lives.”
Help Linus and Joseph fund the education of more children in Myanmar, by sponsoring the bursary programme or donating educational materials with Global Village for Hope.
Global Village for Hope also distributes sacks of rice to poor families through their Rice for Hope initiative. And supports the building of infrastructure, including solar-generated electricity, wells and widening roads, to help improve the quality of life for these villagers. You can find out more by contacting Linus.
For a more personal perspective of the friendship between Linus and Joseph, read Linus's blog here.
