2020
Ye Min Ko
- Age: 28
- | He/him/his
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Education is the key to eliminating gender inequality. To empower women and girls, we must educate them and listen their voices. Their voices must be included at every decision-making level.
- Ye Min Ko
Bio
Ye Min Ko was born and raised in Myanmar. He received a Bachelor of Community Health from the University of Community Health in 2016. As a Research Officer at Population Services International Myanmar, Ye is responsible for conducting health-related research projects, field management, data analysis, and writing reports. Ye is also a volunteer at Than Sitt Charity Clinic, Myanmar Liver Foundation.
What ignited your pursuit for gender equality?
A personal story of a reproductive woman who lives in rural remote area inspired me to become an advocate for inequality in receiving healthcare services and for the health and rights of girls and women everywhere.
Please share your biggest wins as an advocate for gender equality.
Female sex workers do not use health services mainly due to fear of social stigma and discrimination. I contributed to increase the health services utilization among female sex workers. Later, they were convinced that they have rights for their health and changed their attitudes on the health care setting. At last, they could access and utilize health services without any discrimination.
Outside of your gender equality advocacy work, what do you enjoy doing?
In my free time, I enjoy reading books, listening to musics, volunteering, traveling, and photography.
Languages Spoken:
- Burmese (Advanced/Native)
- English (Intermediate)
- French (Elementary)
- English (Intermediate)
Speaks On:
- contraception
- girls' and women's access to health services
- youth empowerment for HIV prevention
Past Awards, Certifications, or Fellowships:
- Myanmar Delegate for 5th University Scholar Leadership Symposium (2014)
- Bachelor of Community Health from the University of Community Health
- Postgraduate Diploma in Research Studies from Yangon University of Economics
- Certificate in Leadership Development Program in Social Changes from Humanitarian Affair UK
- Peer Counseling Training Program at Save the Children Magway
- Leadership and Team Building Training at Save the Children Magway
- First Prize for Research by University of Community Health
- Outstanding Student
