The Myanmar Leadership Institute (MLI) first welcomed students in December 2018. In just six years, thousands of students have experienced MLI’s unique mix of innovative learning and supportive community.
Back in 2017, Myanmar’s Cardinal Charles Bo, asked the Jesuits to open a school specialising in leadership skills for Myanmar’s young professionals. At the time, Myanmar’s new democracy was dealing with big challenges like a national peace process and education reform. The Cardinal and the Jesuits saw an urgent need to create a space where everyone’s voice could be heard. MLI stepped in to fill that gap.
Today, the need for strong, compassionate leaders in Myanmar is greater than ever. The original goals of MLI—to train leaders who stand for justice, solidarity, and support for the underserved—are even more relevant now. MLI is committed to shaping leaders ready to take on the challenges and rebuild a brighter future for Myanmar.
MLI has been active this year, hosting a range of workshops on topics like emotional resilience, ecology awareness, and child safeguarding, reaching over 600 students. Participants often share that they leave the workshops feeling supported and reassured, with a renewed sense that they are not alone in their challenges.
Teaching is embedded in the Jesuit goal of forming “men and women for others.” MLI aims to serve the wider Myanmar community while contributing to the professional growth of its students, with special attention to the poor and marginalized. MLI students are also encouraged to develop personally, focusing on how to lead their communities with clear vision, understanding, and hope.
The institute’s flagship course is a 15-month diploma accredited by Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines. Sixty-six aspiring leaders have already completed this diploma, and most are now living and working in conflict zones. Since graduation, they have found jobs as teachers, social workers, and community leaders. Hope burns in their hearts. As future leaders, they are already at work, making a difference in their communities, getting ready to navigate the long road to a just and peaceful future for Myanmar.
The Myanmar Leadership Institute is now in need of financial support to sustain its vital mission of empowering young leaders. Your contribution can help ensure the continuation of this transformative work. For more information on how you can support this unique initiative, please reach out to the Development Team: mynsjdo@gmail.com.
