Strength in Diversity​

Bawi, a refugee from Myanmar, was only 14 when he left his native country and resettled halfway across the globe. It was a culture shock for him, as everything was different, from the language to the customs and traditions.

As he settled into this new environment, Bawi discovered an organization called the “Refugee Dream Center” (RDC). Bawi began his time at RDC as a youth community member as his relationship grew stronger with Omar he decided to volunteer as an intern for nine months. During his internship, he engaged in a variety of work, including home visits and community outreach programs. Bawi was passionate about helping others, and this desire to make a difference in people’s lives was what motivated him to pursue social work as a career.

Over the years, Bawi’s dedication and commitment to RDC didn’t go unnoticed. He became a youth leader and served in that capacity for seven years. RDC played a crucial role in his personal growth, helping him develop strong communication skills and build meaningful connections with others in the community.

Amidst all the challenges and experiences, one particular situation stood out to Bawi—divorce. Witnessing the impact of divorce on families within the community was a revelation for Bawi. It shook him to the core and made him realize the importance of supporting those going through difficult times.

During the tough times he faced while working at RDC, Bawi drew strength from the sense of community within the organization. He learned about various cultures, beliefs, and traditions, which broadened his perspective and enabled him to tackle challenges with empathy and understanding.

As he navigated through life and his social work journey, Bawi often turned to his heart for guidance. He firmly believed that listening to one’s heart and following one’s intuition could lead to the right decisions and actions.

Reflecting on his path, Bawi felt proud of himself and his achievements. He had learned that determination and a positive mindset could overcome any obstacle. He had seen how the success of others inspired him to believe in his own abilities.

Looking to the future, Bawi hopes to live a fulfilling life with financial stability. He believes that money couldn’t buy happiness but acknowledges its role in ensuring a secure and comfortable life. He has plans and dreams that he prefers to keep undisclosed for now, allowing him the freedom to explore the endless possibilities life has to offer.

Throughout his journey at RDC, one person, in particular, had a significant impact on Bawi—Omar, a mentor and a friend. Omar’s guidance and support had helped Bawi grow both personally and professionally. They had formed a close bond that extended beyond the walls of RDC, spending time together discussing common sense and sharing their distinct life experiences.

And so, the story of Bawi’s life continues to unfold, as he remains committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others, guided by his heart and fueled by the support of his community at RDC. With determination and a passion for helping people, Bawi’s journey in social work at Lifespan was just beginning, with many chapters yet to be written.