By BEAM staff

“I was lost. I had no direction, and I didn’t even feel confident enough to imagine a future,” says Lyang Mai Twan.

Originally from Namsang in Shan State, Myanmar, Lyang Mai Twan was just 18 when he applied to BEAM’s GED program. At the time, continuing his education felt uncertain—almost out of reach.

“I even thought about giving up on my education,” he admits. “I was confused and unsure about my future.”

It was his sister who first introduced him to BEAM. What began as a simple suggestion quickly became a turning point.

“That program changed my life completely,” he says. “I gained supportive friends, inspiring teachers, confidence, and strong leadership skills.”

BEAM’s GED program offers more than academic preparation—it provides structure, guidance, and a sense of belonging. For Lyang Mai Twan, it became the foundation he needed to move forward.

“BEAM gave me direction, support, and a strong community. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” he says.

After passing the GED at 19, new opportunities began to open. Lyang Mai Twan was accepted into Chiang Mai Rajabhat University and was set to study International Business Management however he only managed to scrape together the funding for the first year of tuition fees. This financial pressure weighed heavily during his first year of university.

“I struggled a lot, constantly thinking about how I’d afford things,” he says.

Then came the breakthrough. Through his BEAM cohort group, Sayarma Nu Nu posted about a scholarship opportunity- one that would change everything.

Lyang Mai Twan was awarded a fully funded scholarship from the Philanthropy connections, covering his entire university journey. This scholarship will fund his final three years of study and includes a monthly stipend for living expenses.

“When I got the scholarship, I was so happy—I can’t even describe the feeling,” he says. “It felt like a huge burden was lifted off my shoulders. I didn’t have to worry about money anymore.”

That shift has transformed not only his present, but also his vision for the future.

“My future looks so much brighter now,” he says. “I want to build a brand that is socially responsible—something that doesn’t harm others and gives back through CSR.”

His ambitions go beyond personal success. He wants to create something meaningful—something that contributes to other people’s lives.

“After university, I want to build something that makes a difference,” he says.

For Lyang Mai Twan, education is the starting point.

“Know what you want,” he advises other students. “If you don’t, you won’t be able to think clearly—and if you can’t think, you can’t move forward. Education is the first step.”

Looking back, one thing stands out above all else.

“The best part of BEAM is the community,” he says. “Everyone is so kind and supportive. I never felt alone.”

His message to other young people in Myanmar who are unsure about their path is simple:

“Just do it. It could be the turning point in your life—like it was for me.”