Myanmar
Pre-Jury

Dr. Mya Thein is an accomplished chemistry educator and science communicator with over
four decades of experience in teaching, research and academic leadership. After earning his
degree in Chemistry from Yangon University, he served in various academic roles from
lecturer to professor at universities across Myanmar between 1986 and 2009. He also
contributed as a senior scientist in the Polymer Research Department under the Myanmar
Science and Technology Department.

Currently serving as Head of the Science Department at Brainworks International School, Dr.
Mya Thein is passionate about making science accessible, engaging and relevant to young
learners. Since 2016, he has been actively involved with the Goethe-Institut’s Science Film
Festival (SFF) as a jury member and facilitator of hands-on science activities, supporting
science education and outreach initiatives both locally and regionally.

A strong advocate of experiential learning, Dr. Mya Thein believes that science is best
understood through observation, exploration and practical application. Through science fairs,
workshops, educational field trips and innovative student-centered programs, he continues
to inspire curiosity and foster a lifelong interest in science among students.

Naw Aye Myat Kyi is a dedicated development professional, freelance trainer/consultant and
psychosocial support practitioner with over eight years of experience in gender studies,
community development and mental health support. Holding a degree in Communicative
English and currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Gender Studies, she combines academic
expertise with extensive field experience.

Since 2016, she has worked across the development and education sectors in various
capacities, including Program Officer, Administrative Officer, Gender Studies Lecturer, and
Program Officer and PSEA Focal Point at Thingaha Gender Organization. Through these roles,
she has gained extensive experience in promoting gender equality, supporting community
development initiatives, and delivering psychosocial support services.

Currently, she works as a Freelance Trainer/Consultant, specializing in gender equality,
psychosocial support, trauma-informed approaches, safeguarding, and capacity-building
initiatives for youth, civil society organizations and local communities. She is committed to
promoting community resilience, mental well-being and social inclusion through training,
advocacy and professional practice.

Naw Thin Thant Thant Cho is a dedicated educator with a background in Civil Engineering
and language teaching, combining a strong technical foundation with expertise in English
language education. Holding a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering and a Diploma in
TESOL, she has developed a diverse range of academic and professional interests. Since
2015, she has been actively involved in the education sector, teaching various subjects and
nurturing students’ curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

Currently, Thin Thant Thant Cho teaches Science to both primary and lower secondary
students, delivering engaging lessons and conducting hands-on science experiments to
enhance students’ understanding and enthusiasm for learning. She is committed to fostering
a positive and inclusive learning environment while promoting scientific inquiry, problem-
solving abilities, and critical thinking among her students. Driven by a passion for education,
she strives to inspire lifelong learning and support students in reaching their full potential.

April @ Hsu Myat Mon is currently a self-employed, a founder of CORNERSTONE EduService.
She is a committed educator, academic administrator, and youth development advocate with
over a decade of experience in education and community engagement. She is a bachelor
holder of International Relations. Her passion for education led her to focus on developing
young people and strengthening educational systems. Professionally, she has strong
experience in academic administration, programme coordination, and exam operations. As a
Test Centre Administrator at Chindwin-PSB IELTS, she was responsible for maintaining highstandards of test delivery and overall test centre operation and administration.

She hasbeen serving as a Faculty Head and Head of Academic, leading academic teams and
supporting curriculum development. With advanced diplomas in Higher Educational
Administration and Leadership, Educational Psychology and Strategic HR and OD
Management, she combines effective administration, strategic thinking, and a people-
centered approach to support students, staff, and organizations. Beyond her professional
work, April has been actively involving in youth development through the YMCA and
Methodist Youth Association.

She has taken on various leadership responsibilities, including
President, Secretary, Financial Secretary and Board Member, supporting youth
empowerment, leadership development, and community contribution. Her experience in
leadership, education, and youth engagement has strengthened her interest in creating
meaningful learning opportunities for young people. As a Pre-Jury Member of the Science
Film Festival Myanmar, she brings an educational and youth-focused perspective to the film
selection process, with a particular interest in how science can be communicated in an
engaging, accessible, and meaningful way for young audiences.

Saw San Win Aung @ Jay is a youth leader and community development practitioner from
Myanmar with over eight years of experience in youth empowerment, volunteerism, and
sustainable development through the Myanmar YMCA. He currently serves as the Area
Coordinator for the Sustainable Development through Strengthening Youth Employment
(SDSYE) Program, leading initiatives that strengthen youth employability and community
development.

Jay has held key leadership roles, including Community Development Officer, Secretary of
the Youth Department, Volunteer Team Leader for the Science Film Festival Myanmar (2020-
2023), and Project Program Coordinator for the 13th and 14th Science Film Festival
Myanmar, organized in partnership with Goethe-Institut Myanmar.

At the regional level, he serves as a Green Ambassador and Youth Participation and
Leadership Development (YPLD) Committee Member of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of
YMCAs (APAY). With a Bachelor of Engineering (Petroleum) and extensive experience in
youth leadership, volunteerism, project management, and community engagement, Jay is
committed to empowering young people to become active leaders and positive
changemakers.