Funded by Colors Rainbow, Parami University's Student Affairs team launched Breaking Boundaries Through SOGIESC initiative in August 2024 to raise awareness and promote advocacy for Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC). Through public events, training, and student-led projects, the initiative challenged stereotypes, provided practical knowledge, and fostered inclusivity. The initiative reflects Parami University's values of Diversity and Equity, creating a supportive space for all students. Through education and institutional support, they foster inclusivity and meaningful contributions.
Assistant Manager of Student Affairs Htet Aung Hlaing Myint (Pedro), who was involved in bringing this initiative to Parami University, stated that he has seen how important it is to create an inclusive environment, especially in a diverse community like Parami University. "Our university has made progress in the past two years by offering SOGIESC-related sessions during orientation, but we recognized the need to do more. This year, with the support of Colors Rainbow's funding, we aimed to expand these efforts and provide additional opportunities for education and engagement throughout the academic year."
The initiative started with a public event in August 2024 with Phyo Thit Luu, a guest speaker who has been actively involved in the LGBT rights movement since 2008. In addition, about 75 participants, including Parami students and staff, attended Basic and Advanced SOGISC training. They learned about SOGIESC and theories and how to apply them in real-life situations.
In a concerted effort to foster inclusivity and awareness around SOGIESC, Parami undergraduate students and staff implemented 10 hybrid projects across different regions, including Yangon, Mandalay, Taunggyi, and Pathein in Myanmar and Chiang Mai, Mae Sot, and Mae Hong Son in Thailand. Eight of 10 projects were organized in person. Under different themes, the projects allowed hundreds of participants from diverse communities to learn about SOGIESC through storytelling, workshops, music, art, and discussions.
SOGIESC Projects Highlights
1. We Are All Human
By Bae Reh, Boe Myar Rosy, Khu David Takeh, Phoye Yi and Yoon Poe Ei Maung
Held on November 16, 2024, in Karenni Refugee Camp 1 in Mae Hong Son, this project engaged students in interactive activities and discussions on LGBTQI+ inclusion. The event built awareness, though some participants initially struggled with unfamiliar topics. Open discussions and personalized support helped bridge these gaps. The project fostered collaboration and confidence among participants, setting a foundation for future outreach initiatives.
2. Harmony and Diversity: Advancing Awareness
By Ko Ko Oo, Jacqueline Kyu, Jue Jue Aung, Soung Ya Ti, Khu Htoo Htoo, Saw Wah Htoo Kay and Khant Zaw Win
Conducted on November 16 and 25, 2024, in Mae Sot and Mae Pa, this learner-led project aimed to combat school gender-based violence and promote inclusivity. Through music, scenario-based discussions, and interactive dialogue, students from the Karen General Education Program (KGED) deepened their understanding of human rights and discrimination. Despite logistical challenges, the initiative strengthened partnerships and inspired advocacy for safer learning spaces.
3. Advocacy to Inclusion Workshop (AI Workshop)
By Khant Razar Kyaw and Bhone Khant Theim
From November 21 to 22, 2024, Parami University students participated in this online capacity-building workshop focused on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI), and advocacy. The workshop included discussions on gender identity, advocacy strategies, and power analysis. While participation was lower than expected due to online fatigue, the workshop effectively delivered valuable insights into DEI frameworks and advocacy tools.
4. True Colors Initiative: Expressing Identity Through Art
By Chen, Myat Moe Kywe, Aye Chan Myat and Htet Aung Hlaing Myint
This project, which ran from November 22 to 30, 2024, was conducted in collaboration with Payap University's Centre for Social Impact. It engaged students in creative expression exercises such as drawing and body painting and discussing gender stereotypes. The initiative fostered meaningful dialogue despite some participation challenges, demonstrating the potential of art in promoting SOGIESC awareness.
5. Spectrum Mandalar: Building Awareness in Mandalay
By Aye Thiri Phyo, Eaint Thet Hmu, Myint Myat, Nang Kham Thaung and Se Myar
From November 24 to 27, 2024, this project engaged 54 students at the New Teachers Training Center (NTTC) through interactive sessions on gender stereotypes and inclusivity. The project included an interactive session called "What about the Lingo?" that allows participants to explore the role of language in shaping conversations around SOCIESC. Participants examined how language reflects and influences societal attitudes toward sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.
6. SOGIESC Inclusive in Education: A Taunggyi Initiative
By Aung Thura, Khin Yadana Kyaw, Aung Pyae Sone and Aung Chit Thae Ko
Conducted between October 28 and November 22, 2024, in partnership with the Integrated Development Institute (IDI), this project engaged 35 students in workshops, role-playing activities, and discussions on inclusivity in education. Despite scheduling conflicts and language barriers, the initiative effectively promoted advocacy and empathy in educational settings.
7. Through the Kaleido Lens: Enhancing awareness
By May Lawoon Lwin, Moe Honey, Eaint Phyu Thae and Ae Ni Ni Lwin
Held at Yadana Education Center from November 4 to 20, 2024, this project introduced 22 high school students to SOGIESC concepts through guest lectures, empathy mapping, and interactive exercises. Although a last-minute venue change posed challenges, the initiative successfully encouraged critical thinking and inclusivity advocacy among students.
8. Beyond Labels: Film and Storytelling for Inclusion
By Phyu Phyu Han, Nyi Nyi Aung, San Lei Nandar, Thazin Oo and Kyawt Hmue Theint
On November 10, 2024, Parami University in Yangon hosted a film screening of Moonlight, followed by group discussions and storytelling sessions. The event fostered deep empathy and understanding of gender identity, strengthening community bonds and paving the way for future inclusivity initiatives.
9. Spectrum of Equality: Art and Education for Awareness
By May Mon Thant, Eaint Phyu Thae, Khaing Lwin Lwin Thaw, Thandar Htwe and Sai Sai Ohum Khay
Implemented between November 2 and 22, 2024, in collaboration with Lann Organization, this project combined an online panel discussion and an art competition to educate and engage individuals with limited knowledge of SOGIESC concepts. The panel discussion attracted 30 participants, while the art competition received creative submissions highlighting inclusivity themes. The project demonstrated the effectiveness of creative advocacy in raising awareness.
10. Staff Retreat SOGIESC Training
By Htet Aung Hlaing Myint, Thazin Oo and Nyi Nyi Aung
This training session aimed to strengthen the staff's understanding of SOGIESC concepts and their relevance to community engagement. Activities included brainstorming, Q&A sessions, and interactive discussions on fostering inclusivity in their roles. Through the training, staff gained actionable insights into advocating for SOGIESC inclusivity through open discussions, encouraged collective problem-solving, and highlighted strategies for addressing biases in educational environments.
Through the implementation of interactive activities, the initiatives saw higher levels of active engagement and participation in SOGIE-related events, allowing for deeper involvement from community members. The initiatives effectively facilitated open and supportive communication, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals, creating a more connected and inclusive environment.
Also, participants have shown strong initiative, connecting with local partners and online groups to raise awareness and provide training, demonstrating their commitment to the project's goals. Many students are eager to join Color Rainbow's Train-the-Trainer (TOT) sessions to deepen their expertise and lead impactful SOGIESC-related initiatives for lasting change.
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