My name is Jaw La Htwal Aung. I am a Kachin living in HpaKan. I am 21-years old, and am supposed to be at university, but as it is not easy to attend classes I have begun to run my own small business.
I face so many obstacles; we are suffering in every sector of our lives due to the current crisis. Everything is stagnant for me because I have not finished my degree. As young people, we have to find our education and wisdom by making friends. But the worst thing is that now we have to stay at home due to COVID and this makes us strangers to our own neighbours.
When I set up my business, I knew so little, that I was cheated. This depressed me deeply. But I encouraged myself to take it as a lesson, and to try my best not to fail again. I don’t have much capital, so I have had to give up on some business opportunities. But, as a Christian, I prayed for help and my friends and family came to my rescue, so that I can carry on with my business.
In the same way that I get help from my loved ones, I help others as much as I can. One of my friends wanted to open a shop but he had no capital, so I helped him not only financially but also physically. He is doing okay now.
The people I try to emulate in my life are my parents. My father is always ready for his children and my mother gives us warmth and love. My mother always stands before us as a hero. But, due to many factors, we have to live separately. I feel lonely sometimes. I miss them. I have contacted them when I’ve need advice, but one time, my father was ill, and I wanted to run to him. It has been difficult being so far away, but I’ve managed to send money to them.
I can overcome my problems because firstly, I believe in God. With His strength I will try my best. Secondly, I have to believe in myself. Rather than saying ‘I cannot do this’, I have to have the mindset that I must do it. Finally, I asked for help from my friends. With all of this, I can keep going.
I would like to tell other young people: ‘Believe in your own religions. Whatever you do, do it with the mindset that you must succeed and that you can do it. If your friends need help, you should help them as much as you can. If you need help too, you should ask for it from your friends, relatives and parents. Don’t be afraid.’
