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Tip: Have students rate and comment on books they've read and add their own!

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Tip: Customize the post fields to focus students on adding a video attachment.

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Tip: Ask students to add their own math word problems and use any attachment type to describe it.

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Tip: Ask students to design their own recipe pages of a favorite food from their family.

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Find even more examples to inspire your own creations!

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U Dhamapala: A Quiet Hero of Service and Compassion  

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U Dhamapala: A Quiet Hero of Service and Compassion  

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It is believed that true heroes are not always the ones we see in the news or on big stages. Some heroes work quietly, helping their communities without expecting fame or reward. U Dhamapala seems to be one of those heroes. He is a respected monk who started a non-profit foundation and leads a monastery dedicated to preserving the Buddhist religion, educating children, and supporting those in need. Although his name is not widely recognized, his work continues to create a deep and lasting impact.

U Dhamapala’s life shows what dedication and kindness can achieve. His foundation is non-profit, meaning it exists only to help people, not to earn money. He created a safe home for children who have no other place to go, giving them not only Buddhist religious education but also general schooling. This gives children a chance to grow in wisdom, life skills, and moral values. Many of these children come from poor families, and thanks to his guidance, they now have hope for a brighter future.

The monastery he leads is more than a religious center. It is a place of learning, love, and humanitarian service. It is possible to see that U Dhamapala believes education is key to breaking cycles of poverty and suffering.

He also works hard to build respect within his community. For example, he encourages people to show kindness and care for the elderly, teaching that every person deserves dignity. Though he is not famous, his impact is clear: his actions have inspired others to help, volunteer, and contribute to the good of their society.

In conclusion, U Dahmapala has done a great service to not only his community but also the entire country by helping those in need and working to preserve buddhism. He is someone who devote his life to spreading kindness and preparing the next generation to better than the last. He is someone that deserves recognition above all else.

U Dahmapala is doing everything he could to help the world. So, what about us? We could also help as volunteers or donate to his or other charities. Even if you can't do any of these, you can help just by spreading his name. So that others may be inspired by him.

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Daw Khin Kyi: A Life of Quiet Strength and Enduring Service

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Daw Khin Kyi: A Life of Quiet Strength and Enduring Service

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When people discuss the contemporary history of Myanmar, they most often speak of names like General Aung San and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. Little mention, however, is made of a woman whose own legacy is one of service, strength, and compassion Daw Khin Kyi. As the wife of General Aung San and mother of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, she is likely to be remembered in relation to her family. However, to only remember her thus would be to neglect to recollect her own contributions, her dedication to the welfare of the people, and her enduring legacy as an unheralded heroine of Myanmar.

Daw Khin Kyi’s story is deeply rooted in the turbulent years following independence. After the tragic assassination of General Aung San in 1947, she was left a widow with young children, carrying not only personal grief but also the expectations of a nation. Instead of retreating from public life, she chose to step forward in service.

She was elected as a Member of Parliament, an icon of dignity and integrity in a new nation. She then served as Myanmar's first female ambassador to India, from 1960 to 1967. In these roles, Daw Khin Kyi exercised quiet but firm leadership when women in politics were not the rule, blazing new trails with poise, not omnipresence.

What set her apart, however, was her career commitment to social and humanitarian work throughout her life. A large part of her career was devoted to healthcare, maternal health, and education. She believed that a healthy country begins with healthy families, and she worked tirelessly to reform the state of hospitals and community care programs.

Her efforts eventually resulted in the establishment of the Daw Khin Kyi Foundation, which supports and fosters education, health, and sustainable development. Although this foundation was established posthumously, it carries her name as a testament to her enduring legacy and the values she espoused service to others, compassion, and kindness.

In contrast to most of her peers, Daw Khin Kyi had no ambition for fame or power. She never composed a speech that hit the front pages, and she did not pursue the limelight. Instead, she embodied a more subtle kind of heroism the kind that works tirelessly behind the scenes, cementing society's pillars in ways that are often unsung.

Her humility is perhaps the greatest lesson we can learn today. As much as her husband is remembered as political leadership, as much as her daughter is remembered as democratic activism, Daw Khin Kyi's life teaches us about a service rooted in empathy. She showed us that even in the aftermath of tragedy, one could choose resilience and be dedicated to the welfare of others.

When we recall Daw Khin Kyi, we honor not only the wife of a national hero or mother of a democracy icon, but a woman who lived her principles, walked with dignity in hardship, and whose compassion and service legacy continues to transform communities, institutions, and lives in Myanmar. Although her name does not appear often in the media, her impact still affects communities, institutions, and lives in Myanmar.

Call to Action (CTA)

Daw Khin Kyi’s story is a reminder that not all heroes are celebrated, yet their impact is no less significant. Now, I’d love to hear from you: who are the unsung heroes in your community? Perhaps it is a teacher, a caregiver, a neighbor, or someone who works silently for the good of others. Post their stories in the comments, or share this post with others to inspire them to notice the quiet strength that surrounds them. Let us all ensure no hero goes unnoticed.

Pair - 5 (Hein Thu Ta & Yunn Bachi)

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An Unsung Heroine: The Last Mahadevi of Hispaw

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An Unsung Heroine: The Last Mahadevi of Hispaw

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A princess who chose the humanity than a crown

Have you ever heard of the last Mahadevi of Hispaw in Myanmar, who fought against injustices and human right abuses using her voice? Her name is Inge Sergent, and she was an Austrian woman born in 1932. She studied at a University in the United States, where she met her husband ‘ Sao Kya Seng’, who is the Saopha( prince ) of Hsipaw.

Her husband was studying engineering at the same University as her, which was the University of Colorado. They met through the international community, when their friendship started and turned into a romantic story. By that, they got married on 7th, March, 1953 in Colorado. She had no idea that Sao was a prince of Hsipaw until she sailed to Burma, which was after the graduation of her husband.

Just after they had arrived to Hsipaw, one of the Shan states of Burma, she was conferred and became the  Mahadevi Sao Nang Thu Sandi, the Princess Consort of Hsipaw. She lived nearly 10 years in Hsipaw while learning the language, cultures and traditions. She also balanced in working alongside to develop education, healthcare, agriculture and the economy. Accordingly, she was loved among the Shan people for her humility, service and earning respect as a reluctant ruler.

In 1962, a military coup in Burma ended the semi-autonomous Shan principalities. Her husband was also arrested and disappeared without having a trace, and he was presumed to be executed as he never returned. The hereditary Saopha system was abolished, which made her the last Mahadevi of Hispaw. She was forced to exile, while was left as a widow with two daughters, who were the ages of five and eight. However, she stayed graceful and kept her dignity, all the while visiting prisons, military offices, and government departments in  Burma digging for her husband’s information. After the forced exile, she resettled in the United States and became a teacher, dedicating herself towards her daughters. In 1994, she published her memoir “Twilight Over Burma: My Life as a Shan Princess”, telling the world her story of love, loss, and resilience. In 2015, her book was adapted into a film (Twilight Over Burma), though it was banned in Myanmar. She continued to speak out for human rights and ethnic struggles in Myanmar and passed away at the age of 90 on 6th, February 2023. She remained as a princess of Shan state, Mahadevi of Hsipaw, who truly showed her humility and kindness toward people, and her love toward Sao Kya Seng.

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Dr Cynthia Maung (The angel beyond the mountain range)

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Dr Cynthia Maung (The angel beyond the mountain range)

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Dr Cynthia Maung (The angel beyond the mountain range)

In the crowded refugee camps on the Myanmar Thai borderlines, the healthcare system for people was non-existent. The death caused by uneducated birth skyrocketed and many people died because of malaria. But because of the effort of one person, Dr Cynthia Maung, hope arose for a better quality of life.

Born in 1959, she was a young doctor who was working in clinics in Eastern Karen State. During her time in the rural villages, she had experienced many shortages of supplies. In 1988, Dr Cynthia Maung went to the border and at a refugee camp she set up her first own makeshift clinic. After moving her makeshift clinic from camp to camp for years, she chose to set up a permanent clinic, which is called Mae Tawe Clinic, that can provide medical aid to refugees and those in need in Maesot, a border town of Thailand. With very limited resources, she even had to sterilize her medical instruments with a rice cooker. For over three decades, her clinic provided free health care to the refugee populace who had to leave their home. Her clinic service also expanded from treating common illnesses like malaria and respiratory diseases to include the treatment programs of reproductive health problems, maternal, childcare and mental health. Mae Tawe Clinic also shared important information with local hospitals in Thailand to widen the coverage of healthcare. As the migrant worker community in that area grows, her clinic also extends the capacity to provide coverage on the migrant worker community.

Now her clinic treats over 75000 patients annually. The caseload of the clinic is over one hundred thousand a year. Because of her effort, once unsure life of ethnic refugees improved, and many lives have been saved. Despite her enormous effort to improve the living standard of countless people, she is not very well known in Burma due to limited flow of information in the past decades. But as the time passed on, her deeds paid off and in 2013 she was awarded the Sydney Peace prize. She is the symbol of hope, resilience through hardship and commitment for the poor.

In the rural areas of Africa, jungles of the Amazon and mountain ranges of Asia, many heroes have been working for years to improve the health care and education system. Some are well known but some are not. Do you know one of them? If so, you can write his or her stories in the comment box so other readers could know the unheard stories which are both heroic and sometimes tearful.

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The Unsung  Hero of Hmawbi: The Teacher Who Gives Without Expecting

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The Unsung  Hero of Hmawbi: The Teacher Who Gives Without Expecting

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In every community, there are people who quietly make a big difference without seeking recognition. In my neighborhood, Hmawbi Township, there is one such person. She is a dedicated school teacher and mentor who has touched many lives through her kindness and selfless service. Her work goes beyond the classroom, and she has become a true source of inspiration.

This teacher not only works full-time at school but also volunteers to offers free lessons to children from poor families. How many people are truly willing to work beyond their hours without receiving overtime pay? Probably not many. But this teacher is different. She willingly gives up her free time to teach children who cannot afford high tuition fees. Even after long and tiring days, she still finds the energy to help others. Moreover, she buys school supplies with her own money, and even visits families to encourage them to keep their children in school.. so she deeply understands the challenges that poor children face since she also had to struggle financially  for her education when she was younger. Because of her efforts, many of her students have passed important exams and continued their education.

Her actions shows that she never became a teacher for money. She chose this path to fulfill her duty to the fullest — to impart knowledge and wisdom to the next generation. In a world where proper education is often linked to money and wealth, her actions prove that kindness, sympathy, and dedication cannot be bounded by material things .She may not  receive financial rewards for her actions but she is regarded as a kind and selfless person who gives hope and dignity to others in her students’ heart and she seem to be content and proud of it. In the world of teachers, she truly stands out as one of a kind.

What makes her truly special is that she never expects anything in return. She teaches and supports children purely out of love and compassion. Her story shows us that one person, with dedication and kindness, can change the future of many others. She may remain unnoticed and underrated by the wider world, but for the people who know her, she is truly an unsung hero.

Do you know someone like her in your neighborhood? Share their story with us, and let’s give more recognition to these quiet heroes who make the world a better place.

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Children are the future and hope of every nation. But unfortunately, our country, Myanmar, is poor and not well-developed, so many children don’t have a chance to go to school. These children, who live in poor conditions, are mostly street kids, and instead of going to school, some have to work at tea shops or sell flowers on the roadside. Some have been forced by their own parents to beg on the street. Their futures and educations are overlooked by society. In a country where many people believe that giving some money to the poor or donating to monasteries, or building a pagoda will bring good merit afterlife. But what about helping that society in front of us right now? Would you believe that there are people who quietly give their time and energy to support these kids and their education?

Yay Chan Sin is one of the philanthropy foundations in Myanmar, which gives free teaching classes and focuses on the education of street kids during their free time. Most of the people barely noticed this foundation because they never tried to get any media attention by using the image of these poor kids, and they didn’t want to turn poverty into “Poverty Porn” to make themselves famous as a superhero, and quietly help, following their motto, “Leave the camera at home when you help the poor.”

The Yay Chan Sin foundation was started on February 5th, 2023, by the founder, Phyo Ko Ko Maung, along with 30 young volunteer teachers. Since then, the YCS Team has opened many street teaching classes in many busy and crowded areas like Hledan, Insein, Kyeemyindaing, Dala, Hlaing Thar Yar to teach poor children who don’t have access to school. They also don’t have proper classrooms or offices, because the whole project is run by college students using their own budgets. That’s why the classes are often held under the bridges, beside railroad tracks, or at the monastery, anywhere they can gather the kids and give them a chance to learn.

They mainly teach children between the ages of 5 to 15, ranging from kindergarten to Grade 3. In addition, they have already launched a Facebook Donation Page and received contributions to support other students from low-income households who can’t continue their education. To raise further funds, they also perform street busking near the San Yeik Nyein bus stop.

The philanthropy work, like teaching street children, is really tough, but it’s also such a kind and meaningful thing to do. These children often lack not only access to education but also guidance in behavior and manners. Unlike other children in the community, they are frequently avoided and neglected by society, with few willing to engage with them. For these underprivileged kids, Yay Chan Sin has stepped in, offering support in every possible way to help them gain both quality education and positive character development.

Everyone has a chance to become an unsung hero. It does not seem as difficult as you might think. If you are interested in those kinds of charity and humanitarian contributions, or if you simply want to support street kids in the community, you can help by donating money. And if you are a student with some time to spare, you can even volunteer as a teacher with the Yay Chan Sin Team. They will also provide you with a certificate for your contribution.

What inspires me most is that in my country, there are countless people quietly giving their time, energy, and love without ever asking for recognition. They don’t want fame; they just want to help. Through this blog, I hope to share their stories and show how we can all play a part in building a stronger, kinder community.

So I ask you: why not step forward too? Who says you can’t be an unsung hero?

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Rice Farmers: The unsung Heroes of Food Security

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Rice Farmers: The unsung Heroes of Food Security

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Unsung heroes are widely recognized as vital contributors to the development and well-being of our communities. Although their efforts often go unnoticed, the impact of their work can be profound and lasting. These individuals frequently dedicate their time, energy, and resources selflessly, striving to improve the lives of others. I believe that rice farmers are true unsung heroes whose contributions are often overlooked. As the primary producers of rice, they are responsible for cultivating a crop that servers as the staple food for millions of people around the world.

Farmers get up before the sun comes up, work hard in the heat, and have to deal with heavy rains and long periods of time when they don't know what's going to happen. They worked hard to fill our tables with fruit, our bowls with rice, and our cups with milk.  They don't just plant seeds for crops, they plant seeds that will feed a lot of people. Farmers play a very important role, but they often go unnoticed and have to deal with bad weather, low pay, and not enough resources.

A lot of farmers around the world still use old-fashioned methods, but they have to deal with climate change, rising costs, and markets that aren't always reliable.      But they keep going. Their passion and drive remind us that farming is more than just a job. it reminds us, we need to be patient, strong, and hopeful.

It’s believed that rice farmers are the backbone of our communities, even though they rarely receive the recognition they deserve.Their perseverance through challenges such as unpredictable weather, low income, and limited resources demonstrates extraordinary resilience. Many people think that without their hard work, our societies would struggle to survive, as rice remains a staple food for millions. It seems that their efforts are not only about growing crops but also about sustaining cultures, families, and futures. For these reasons, rice farmers should be honored as true unsung heroes who continue to shape our world in meaningful ways.

Call to Action (CTA)

Do you know someone in your community who works quietly yet makes a big difference, just like rice farmers? Share their story and help us celebrate these unsung heroes. Together, we can recognize their sacrifices and remind them that their work truly matters.

Pair 15

Kyaw Win Htut

Su Lai Yee Aye

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Selfless Hero

When someone donates a large amount of money to a place in need, journalists highlight it in the news. Celebrities and wealthy people often use donations as a way to protect or enhance their reputation. However, not everyone who donates to charity is chasing fame. One such person was Ronald Read, a hardworking man who lived simply his entire life. Despite his modest lifestyle, he donated millions of dollars to his community. No one actually knew that he had earned such wealth until after he passed away. His donation made a significant impact on different areas, especially healthcare services and education.

So who was Ronald Read? He was not a famous businessman or a celebrity. In fact, he worked most of his life as a janitor and at a gas station. He dressed very simply and never showed that he had money. But behind this simple life, he was quietly saving and investing.

When he passed away in 2014, people were shocked to learn that he had left more than 8 million dollars for his local hospital and library. His gift meant more books for students, better learning opportunities, and stronger healthcare for the community. He showed everyone that even an ordinary person, living modestly, can still change many lives.

Do you know any unsung heroes? If you don’t, you should try to discover them. Some people do not want to become popular because of their donations; however, recognizing them is a way to honor their accomplishments. Countless unrecognized heroes in this world are trying to make it a better place in their own way. Donation is not the only way to help others; you can also contribute by using the skills and qualities you have.

I think Ronald Read’s story is really inspiring. He never looked for attention, but his actions continue to make a difference. He deserves to be remembered because his kindness is still helping people today, even after he is gone.

Pair- Nan Myat Shwe Eaindra and Chit Yoon Shwe Yi

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When Silence Speaks: Journal Kyaw U Chit Maung's Legacy 

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When Silence Speaks: Journal Kyaw U Chit Maung's Legacy 

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“Journal Kyaw U Chit Maung” was a prominent Burmese journalist, writer, and editor, best remembered for founding the influential newspaper “Journal Kyaw”. Growing up under British colonial rule, he witnessed the injustices and inequalities of Burmese society, which inspired him to take up the pen as a weapon for truth and justice. Through his writings, he became a voice for the voiceless, advocating for Burmese nationalism and social justice. Despite his dedication and significant contributions to his country’s independence, his legacy remains widely unrecognized for a long time.

There is some evidence to suggest that U Chit Maung chose to be a quiet, yet important role in politics. It is believed that he once told his wife Ma Ma Lay:

“ There are two ways to engage in politics: either by stepping up or by supporting from behind. I prefer to support from behind quietly. Day by day, I believe this role is the most needed.”

This seems to indicate that what matters most to him is to contribute as a dedicated and humanitarian politician, focusing on the needs of his country rather than on public recognition. At a time when many were eager for recognition, his approach reminded others that being a politician often requires sacrifice, patience, and the ability to prioritize the goal over the fame.

Despite the fame , it is also seems that he was a selfless politician. According to his wife, he once said:

“ I'm not in politics just to chase power or positions. Rather than engaging in power politics, I prefer to work as a social reformer.”

Because of his selfless dedication, his writings and editorials were the voice for the voiceless. By addressing social issues and highlighting injustices fearlessly, he helped awaken the social awareness at a time when silence was common.

As a member of the Anti-Fascist People’s Freedom League (AFPFL), U Chit Maung used both his pen and his presence to support Burma's independence movement. Through his editorials and writings, it seems that he encouraged people to honor those who sacrificed for freedom. In one of his editorial, he reminded the readers:

“The people of our country still do not know that they should respect and admire political prisoners.”

By writing these words, he shaped the way Burmese people's recognition of political prisoners from criminals to heroes. Together, U Chit Maung's contributions, philanthropic efforts and community service have left a lasting legacy in both journalism and politics in Myanmar.

U Chit Maung’s story is a powerful reminder that not all heroes are celebrated in history books. While many chased fame and power, he chose to serve quietly, using his pen and principles as tools of resistance. His bravery in journalism, his selflessness in politics, and his unwavering voice for the voiceless shaped Myanmar’s struggle for independence and social justice. Yet, his legacy has too often been overlooked. To truly honor our past, we must not forget heroes like U Chit Maung, those who sacrificed recognition for the sake of truth and justice. By studying his life, sharing his writings, and acknowledging his contributions, we can keep his spirit alive.

In a time when Myanmar still faces challenges of freedom, democracy, and equality, remembering U Chit Maung is more than history, it is a call to action. His example teaches us that even quiet voices can spark great change. So let us ask ourselves: if he could give so much without seeking recognition, what can we do today to continue his fight for truth and justice?

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Pair 3: Myint Myat Noe Aung , Mhu Think Kha

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People may have many questions and different ideas about who the unsung heroes are – who they are, what they contribute, and why we regard them as unsung heroes. Before diving into the topic, let’s go back to the beginning. A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, especially in Mandalay and Sagaing, and became the country’s deadliest seismic event on 28th March, 2025. It is impossible to appreciate just one hero in this incident.

To be specific, those unsung heroes included firefighters, paramedics, emergency responders, NGOs, translators, sniffer dogs, brave community workers, and even neighbors who provided what people needed, either physically or mentally, and who opened their homes as shelters. It was also a blessing that foreign countries offered advanced medical facilities, highly skilled doctors, and well-trained volunteers. Thanks to the effort, unity, and selfless sacrifices of people from different classes, the community was able to begin rehabilitation after the devastating event.

These community services cannot be carried out by just anyone, as they are arduous and grueling. These heroes came to assist with rescues, relief, shelter, and emotional support during and after the disaster, setting aside concern for their own families. Without the rescue teams, thousands of survivors trapped beneath debris might not have been saved in time. It would not be wrong to say that the role of translators was absolutely vital, helping with medical procedures and ensuring clear communication between doctors and patients.

The power of their work turned despair into hope, fear into courage, division into unity, and insecurity into security. But beyond rescue and relief, the greatest challenge was how survivors overcame the tragedy together. Families who lost their homes rebuilt them with the help of neighbors and community organizations. Students returned to school in temporary classrooms, proving that education could not be stopped by a disaster. Small businesses slowly reopened, showing resilience in the face of loss. Even when hope seemed impossible, people held on to each other, and that unity became the strongest foundation for recovery.

This experience also taught us an unforgettable lesson: disasters may destroy buildings, but they cannot destroy the human spirit. The strength, kindness, and determination of ordinary people made it possible to move forward. The scars of the earthquake remain, but so do the stories of bravery, compassion, and perseverance.

In the end, these earthquake supporters remind us that true heroes are not always those in the spotlight, but those who step forward when humanity needs them the most. Their courage, kindness, and tireless service prove that even in the darkest moments, light can shine through the strength of community. They may not wear capes, but they carry the spirit of hope on their shoulders, and for that, they will always be remembered as anchors in the aftermath.

We would like to express our endless, heartfelt appreciation to all those involved in the rescue and relief operations. Hats off to all the volunteers who risked their lives during the earthquake rescue.

Do you know an unsung hero who made a difference during this disaster? Share their story with us—we would love to hear it. As we have more inspiring stories coming soon, be sure to stay tuned and follow our website.

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Not all heroes are famous. Some people quietly help their communities every day without expecting rewards. Ma Hnin, a teacher in a small town in Myanmar, is one of these heroes.

She has been teaching children for many years. Many children in her town go to her small school. People say that without her support, some children might not have the chance to study. Ma Hnin also helps children who cannot pay school fees. She gives them books, uniforms, and sometimes food. It seems that she does this work because she truly cares about their future.

During difficult times, her help becomes even more important. For example, when there is a flood or natural problem, she organizes volunteers to help children and families. She also encourages parents to send their children to school and explains why education is important. Villagers often say that her guidance has improved children’s lives and made the community stronger.

Even though she does many good things, Ma Hnin is very humble. She rarely talks about her work. Most people notice her because of what she does, not because she asks for recognition. Outside her town, few people know about her, but her actions inspire others to help too.

In my opinion, Ma Hnin is a real hero. She shows that you do not need to be famous to make a difference. Sometimes, quiet heroes like her can change many lives in small but meaningful ways. Her dedication reminds us that helping others, especially children, is very important.

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🍁The Unsung Hero 🍁

By Team Phu San & Khon Arr Murn

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Venerable U Ottama: A Buddhist Monk’s Sacrifice for Myanmar’s Independence

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When we think of Myanmar’s independence, the name of General Aung San usually comes first. Yet decades before General Aung San entered the political stage, a monk from Rakhine State had already lit the fire of resistance against British colonial rule. His name was U Ottama (1879–1939), a man who stood with courage, faith, and sacrifice. Though remembered in some circles, he remains an unsung hero compared to other national leaders.

Ven. U Ottama’s contributions seem to lie in his powerful speeches and writings. Instead of remaining silent in the monastery, he chose to act as a humanitarian leader, addressing the injustices of colonialism. At a time when most were afraid to speak out, U Ottama’s courage was unbelievable. He believed monks had a duty to protect not only the religion but also the people. This was awe-inspiring for ordinary Burmese, who saw him as both a spiritual and political leader. It is possible that his dedication to truth and justice encouraged many young Burmese to resist foreign domination. His resilience was remarkable.The British colonial government saw him as a threat. For his bold speeches, U Ottama was arrested and imprisoned many times. He holds the painful title of being Myanmar’s first political prisoner. Some historians suggest that his activism laid the foundation for later nationalist leaders, including General Aung San.

However, U Ottama is not widely recognized today. It seems that after independence, political leaders became the center of national memory, while monks were often left out of official history. His early death in prison meant that he could not continue shaping the movement, and this may have limited his legacy. It is also possible that being from Rakhine State reduced his recognition, since national heroes were usually highlighted from central Myanmar. Nevertheless, his legacy of courage and social justice continues to inspire.

U Ottama showed that true leadership comes from courage, not position. He proved that monks could guide people not just in spirituality but also in national freedom. His legacy is awesome and out-of-this-world, because he combined faith and politics at a time when doing so was dangerous. U Ottama may not be as celebrated as other national figures, but his role in Myanmar’s independence struggle was extraordinary. He was the first monk to lead political resistance, the first political prisoner of Burma, and a man who gave his life for freedom. He is a true unsung hero—one who deserves to be remembered, honored, and taught to future generations.

Do you know another unsung hero who has quietly shaped our community or nation? Share their story so that their dedication and contributions will not be forgotten.

Pair 11, Htar Ei Shwe Yee

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U Tun Myint: The Quiet Hero Left a legacy of community service in his state

U Tun Myint, a dedicated social worker from Lashio, Shan State, Myanmar, devoted his life to helping others. As chairman of the Lashio Youth Social Support Association, he organized humanitarian aid and provided support to many people in need.

He also volunteered as a rescuer, bravely risking his life to save others in dangerous and conflict-affected areas. After the 2013 riots, he played a key role in rebuilding trust and harmony among different ethnic and religious groups in his community.

In 2019, while on a rescue mission, U Tun Myint sadly passed away. Thousands of people came to his funeral, showing how much they respected and trusted him. Many people believe he helped others not for fame, but because he truly cared.

Quiet heroes like U Tun Myint remind us of the power of selfless service. We should value and support such people while they are still with us, instead of only honoring them after they are gone.

"U Tun Myint was an unsung hero who gave without expecting anything in return. He risked his life to bring hope to others. Do you know an unsung hero in your community? Share their story with us in the comments, and let’s celebrate their contributions together. Don’t forget to follow our page for more inspiring stories from around the world!"

Ricky & Thiri Kyaw Kyaw

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When Myanmar’s freedom struggle is remembered, names like General Aung San and U Ottama are often celebrated. Yet, the story of Saya San—a Buddhist monk, healer, and astrologer—remains less known, though equally significant.

Born in 1876 in Shwebo District, Saya San was deeply connected to the rural communities who faced heavy taxes, debt, and land loss under British rule. In 1930, he declared himself king and launched the Galon Rebellion, using the mythical Garuda as his symbol of resistance. Thousands of peasants, armed mainly with traditional weapons and empowered by spiritual belief, rose against the powerful British Empire.

Although the rebellion was eventually crushed and Saya San was executed in 1931, his legacy endured. To the British, he was a rebel; to the Burmese people, he was a martyr. His uprising was the first major nationwide revolt against colonial rule and proved that the dream of independence was not just an elite cause, but a struggle embraced by ordinary villagers.

Saya San may not have lived to see Myanmar free, but his courage inspired future generations. He remains an unsung hero who showed that the fight for justice begins with the people.