Virtual Burmese Tea Talk Series: Students and supporter meetup fuels change and inspires action

At Parami University, learning extends beyond the classroom. The Institutional Advancement team at Parami University launched a monthly Virtual Burmese Tea Talk Series early this year to provide a space for long-time supporters and undergraduate students to explore personal vision, financial literacy, and global change. 

The Virtual Burmese Tea Talk Series is a monthly event adapted from the concept of a Burmese Tea shop conversation. The virtual session fosters open conversations between Parami students and supporters. These sessions connect students with professionals, providing insights into education, leadership, and global challenges. For supporters, they offer a glimpse into the impact of their contributions on students’ learning journeys.

For the first session, two senior-year students and one second-year student met a long-time Parami University supporter from Japan. The conversation focused on two key themes: Developing a Personal Vision and Big Ideas to Change the World—both crucial for future leaders. The session inspired students to connect personal experiences with global perspectives while examining their roles in shaping the future.

"Your life is yours alone. In these formative years, the mission is to build your own vision, a vision that reflects your passions and potential. The big idea to change the world starts from within, from the courage to dream boldly and act decisively."—Parami Supporter 

For young changemakers, having a clear vision is the foundation for meaningful impact. The supporter emphasized that a liberal arts education isn’t just about knowledge but about discovering one’s path and aligning it with personal values and aspirations.

Pone Nyet Aung, a third-year student, has initiated a mental well-being project to provide a space for the students at Parami to talk about mental health freely. She found the supporter’s words emphasizing the need for doers—those who take the initiative and give back to their communities—very relevant. “His words reaffirmed the importance of defining our vision before striving to make an impact.”

Beyond personal vision, action is key. The discussion encouraged students to think beyond barriers and pursue bold, transformative ideas. The supporter stressed, "The big idea to change the world starts from within, from the courage to dream boldly and act decisively."

Acknowledging Myanmar’s challenges—political instability, financial limitations, and social barriers—the message was clear: Every great idea starts with overcoming adversity.

Myint Myat, a second-year student who has been involved in different community and civic engagement projects, reflected, "This discussion provided valuable perspectives from Parami’s supporters. The exchange of insights helped me refine my approach to strengthening existing initiatives while planning for future advancements."

The session also highlighted the importance of financial literacy in sustaining big ideas, from funding education initiatives to launching social impact projects.

A third-year student, Eaint Thet Hmu, who has been in leadership projects, appreciated the opportunity for a cross-cultural learning experience: "Engaging with someone genuinely interested in our backgrounds was inspiring. As a student from Myanmar, I valued sharing my perspective while learning about Japanese culture and values."

This session was more than a discussion—it was an invitation to reflect on one’s role in shaping the future. By defining their visions and pursuing bold ideas, students embrace their potential to drive meaningful change, one step at a time.

Key takeaways:

• Self-discovery takes time. Uncertainty is natural. Exploring perspectives helps refine direction.

• Vision provides clarity. A well-defined vision guides academic and personal choices.

• Lifelong learning is essential. Embracing new experiences shapes a fulfilling future.