Theme: Seeds of Change

This year's theme focuses on empowering individuals and communities within and outside of Yangon to initiate positive shifts in their lives as individuals and society as a whole. Join us for an engaging day filled with captivating talks, innovative ideas, and inspiring stories of personal growth and societal impact.

Our lineup of esteemed speakers will take you on a journey of self-discovery and resilience as they share their remarkable experiences of turning their lives around from scratch. Through their inspiring narratives, you will witness the extraordinary power of determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of one's dreams. Prepare to be motivated to embark on your own transformative journey, armed with the knowledge that change is always within reach.

In the realm of mental health, we will delve into the importance of compassion and understanding. Explore the pressing need for proper mental health care, as our speakers shed light on their personal encounters with the challenges of mental illness and the critical role of empathy in supporting those affected. Discover simple but practical strategies and tips aimed at fostering a society that embraces mental well-being and advocates for effective support systems.

Stepping into the world of architecture, we will uncover the significance of preserving the cultural heritage of Yangon. Learn from a expert who has dedicated themselves to the conservation and restoration of the city's architectural gems. Gain insights into the complexities of balancing modern development with the preservation of historical sites, and explore the profound impact that architectural preservation can have on cultural identity and community cohesion of Myanmar.

In the pursuit of authentic connections, one our student speakers will shed light on the problem with empty compliments and superficial interactions. They will explore the importance of genuine communication, highlighting the transformative potential of meaningful conversations, and the power of authentic praise and constructive feedback. Prepare to challenge societal norms and embrace a culture of deeper connections that foster personal growth, empathy, and understanding.

TEDxYangonInternationalSchool aspires to be a platform that nurtures the seeds of change and inspires attendees to cultivate a transformative future. Come together with like-minded individuals, engage in insightful discussions, and leave with a renewed sense of purpose and the tools to make a positive impact in your own life and the world around you.

Yangon International School
117 Thumingalar Housing, Thingangyun Township
Yangon, Yangon, 11071
Myanmar

C Kerry Best

Educator + Paraglider

Dr. Best, an English teacher at YIS, is a passionate adventurer and skilled photographer and videographer. With achievements in various sports and fluency in Mandarin and English, he bridges cultures effortlessly. His doctoral thesis delved into critical issues of white privilege, power, and marginalisation in international school settings. Dr. Best's quote, "When faced with a choice of a stable work life or the unknown, I consistently choose the unknown," encapsulates his inspiring journey of change, failure, and resilience.

Hnin Zar Ni

Student + Micro-Finance Advocate

Vivian Hnin Zar Ni is a passionate supporter of micro-finance and an exceptional advocate for positive change within Yangon International School as well as the larger Myanmar community. As President of Student Council, she has organized fairs and activities that connects members of the school community. She combines her experience in legal and finance internships to drive impactful financial initiatives in rural parts of Myanmar and among underprivileged small business owners working in retail and agriculture. As the president of Microloans YIS, she has also organized webinars to promote financial literacy in her community.

May Chit Thè

Student + Mental Health Advocate

May Chit is a dedicated champion for mental health. As the Founder of Pyaw Par Myanmar, a mental health organization based in Yangon and recipient of a UNFPA grant, she oversaw the implementation of critical nationwide data collection and produced a documentary recounting the status of youth mental health in Myanmar. Within the Yangon International School Community, she has organized multiple mental health seminars by partnering with organizations like Marble Psychological Services, especially as students are facing many academic and social challenges. May Chit strives to create an impact in her community through empowering individuals with similar experiences, initiating a rippling effect of change.

Thant Thawdar Thwin

Student + Environmental Activitst

Tiana, a junior at YIS, is the president of Environment 360, a school-based environmental activism group that has been involved in initiating recycling projects and providing funds to protect Irrawaddy dolphins. Through her environmental activism, engagement within the school and local community, Tiana strives to inspire individuals to initiate positive change in the world. She firmly believes that every small action has the power to make a significant impact.

Tun Ye Wai

Heritage Restoration Architect

A graduate from Deakin University in Australia and with years of working as a Senior Architect for Heritage Restoration at Doh Eain, a placemaking social enterprise based in Yangon, Ko Tun Ye Wai's expertise in the field of heritage architect is extensive. Driven by his fascination with the city's architectural heritage, he aspires to transform Yangon into a more vibrant and inclusive place through spearheading heritage and architectural revitalization projects in downtown Yangon. With his education and experience, Ko Tun strives to shape a society where design serves the needs of all people.