Pyae Sone Kyaw

Peer Youth Leadership Batch - 5

Joined Rays of Youth in 2020

“Thoughts Are Shaped by What You Allow.”

 For Pyae Son Kyaw, this belief became the force that shaped his identity and aspirations. Growing up in a migrant community in Mae Sot, he faced many challenges, including limited educational opportunities and uncertainty during the Covid-19 period. Inspired by seniors who joined the Rays of Youth Leadership Program at his school, he sought a space where he could develop new skills and improve himself.

Joining the Youth Leadership Batch-5 became the turning point of his journey. Through the program, he learned how to lead himself, support younger peers, and understand the responsibilities of youth mentorship. More importantly, the experience strengthened his confidence and transformed the way he viewed his own potential. These lessons helped him grow from a quiet teenager into a young leader recognized by his community.

Today, Pyae Son Kyaw has returned to his migrant learning center, where he now serves as a teacher. In this role, he applies the leadership principles he gained from Rays of Youth to guide his students and create a positive learning environment. Teaching has also allowed him to give back to the community that raised him and to continue inspiring younger youths through his own example.

Alongside his work, he has developed a strong passion for photography and aims to become a professional photographer in the future. The knowledge and confidence he gained from Rays of Youth have provided him with a clear direction for this dream.

Looking ahead, he hopes to strengthen both his teaching and creative skills while encouraging young people to prepare themselves for future opportunities. His message to the youth is simple: “Prepare for what you want before the opportunity arrives, and seize it when it comes.”

Reflecting on his growth, Pyae Son Kyaw remains deeply grateful to the Rays of Youth mentors who guided him and helped shape his journey.