Phyo Thiri Lwin, affectionately known as No No, is a second-year student at The University of Hong Kong, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Global Health and Development programme. Hailing from Myanmar, No No’s journey as an international student has been marked by resilience and a deep commitment to fostering connections within the university community.

No No received valuable peer support from CEDARS.

No No's adventure began last year when she arrived in Hong Kong. Initially facing the challenges of adjusting to a new culture and environment, she quickly found her footing through participation in various programmes offered by CEDARS. Her first noteworthy job was as an event assistant for the English For "U" programme, which seeks to improve HKU students' language proficiency by incorporating language acquisition into everyday activities. Participants underwent a series of training and received support, guidance, and supervision in the organisation of two English enrichment camps for junior secondary school students. No No was introduced to the local educational system and given the opportunity to connect with the community meaningfully.

As a student host and programme coordinator for CEDARS, No No has embraced numerous opportunities to support her peers. Her involvement in the GLOCAL Connect programme stands out, where she served as a local connector, helping new students transition smoothly into university life. She recalled, “This is a great initiative because even for myself, there wasn’t a session specifically for us when I arrived.” By facilitating connections among students from diverse backgrounds, No No has contributed to creating a more inclusive campus environment.

Her dedication is further demonstrated by her commitment to the AskMe Ambassador position. As an ambassador, she provided essential information to both local and international students, guiding them through the complexities of university resources. “It’s about being there for new students and helping them navigate their way,” she explained.

No No finds fulfilment in helping newcomers as a CEDARS ambassador.

Throughout her journey, No No has recognised the invaluable support system at CEDARS. “I struggled a lot, like mentally and financially, during my first year,” she admitted. “But CEDARS helped me a lot.” This support not only bolstered her confidence but also ignited a passion for helping others facing similar challenges.

One of her most memorable experiences was during the CEDARS Ambassador Day, where she was the only international student among her Cantonese-speaking peers. Despite her initial hesitations about language barriers, her colleagues and CEDARS staff provided unwavering support, reinforcing the importance of community and collaboration. “It was more than just a staff relationship; it felt like a family,” No No reflected.

No No appreciates the structured working environment at CEDARS, which allows her to thrive in her roles. “The clear workflow is very convenient and systematic,” she noted, highlighting the importance of effective communication and organisation in event planning. Looking to the future, she expresses a desire to delve deeper into the logistical aspects of event management, eager to understand the intricate processes behind successful initiatives.

No No believes CEDARS activities strengthen her connections at HKU.

No No emphasised the significance of engaging with the community: “Even though we are busy with our studies, finding time to help others is incredibly meaningful.” Her journey at HKU has reinforced her belief that collective efforts can create a more supportive environment for all students. 

“Connection is very important,” she asserted. No No hopes to inspire others to embrace their roles in fostering connections at HKU. Through her experiences, No No not only exemplifies the spirit of resilience but also embodies the essence of community — proving that even in a new and unfamiliar place, the bonds we forge can help us overcome challenges and thrive.