Our Background
BEAM (Bridging Educational Access to Marginalized People) Education Foundation was founded in January 2010 to assist with the unmet needs of migrant students seeking higher level college preparation courses and advanced vocational skills training. In 2010, a four person management team of experienced teachers and administrators designed BEAM’s academic, vocational, and cultural programs. Prospective students were surveyed to determine their needs and preferences. An advisory team of educational leaders in Chiang Mai provided input and helped guide the process.
Before BEAM was established, migrant worker programs consisted of informal schools geared towards short term basic level courses. Our aim is to provide sustainable, long-term education for migrant youth and young adults. Today, we offer a pathway to higher education, vocational training, language courses, legal assistance, an internship program, and scholarships for university students in need.
BEAM Education Foundation is a registered non-profit foundation under Thai law. Tuition and textbooks are free of charge. The Burmese Migrants Education Project (BMEP), located in the United States, provides operating support to BEAM. Additionally, our partners provide support and mentorship for our team.