Starting My Life

By Ei Pwin Phyu (STAR, TDC Yangon Myanmar)

End of the Year Breakfast Event, TDC Yangon

My name is Ei Pwint Phyu, and my region name is Soniya Jakalin. I'm 21 years old. My family are my father, my mother and my little brother: my family is important for me.

I passed my Grade 10 exam in 2019, full of dreams and hope for the future. But in that same year, the world was hit by a terrible disease called COVID-19. Suddenly, everything changed. The university I had dreamed of since childhood felt farther and farther away. Because of many difficult circumstances, even when the situation improved and I had the chance to continue my studies, I chose not to go.

That decision marked the moment when I felt my life lose its direction.

I was lost. I didn’t know what to do next. I couldn’t continue my education, and I couldn’t find stable work. Even after the pandemic ended, I remained at home, feeling stuck and unsure about my future. I worked for about a year, but when things didn’t work out, I returned home again, carrying disappointment and confusion in my heart.

One day, while talking with my friends, I heard about Life Project 4 Youth. One of my friends was already a STAR (LP4Y Alumni), and he patiently explained the program to me. In that moment, a small light of hope appeared in my dark and uncertain life.

18th of August 2025 became a turning point in my life. On that day, I joined LP4Y.

From the very beginning, everything started to change. I made new friends who supported and understood me. I learned many things I had never known before. I was able to clearly define my Life Project Plan for the first time in my life. With the guidance of the coaches, I received many training sessions that helped me grow, not only professionally but also personally.

My communication skills improved, and I learned how to behave, dress, and carry myself in a professional way. I used to be someone who preferred to stay alone, but at LP4Y, I learned the true meaning of teamwork. Step by step, I began to find my path. LP4Y gave me experiences that shaped who I am today.

Ei Pwint Phyu's Life Project Plan Presentation

At LP4Y, I discovered who I want to become in life. I learned how to think clearly and plan my future step by step. Now, as I prepare to enter the working world, everything I gained from LP4Y has become a strong foundation for my journey ahead.

 18 February 2026 marked another important day in my life. It was the day I said goodbye to LP4Y and prepared to step into the professional world. During these six months, I gained true friends, created joyful and unforgettable memories, and shared countless moments of learning and growth. I received a lot of training, and I was also proud to give training to others, realizing how much I had grown.

Today, I have found the path I want to walk on. I have prepared myself for the journey, and I am ready to move forward with confidence. Although my journey at LP4Y as a YOUTH has come to an end, my connection to LP4Y will never end. As a STAR, LP4Y will always be a part of my life and my heart.

When I first joined LP4Y, I saw the STARs and I admired them. I wanted to be like them. Now, I am a STAR too.