Zaw Tu Hkawng
Myanmar
Human Rights
Founder and Program Manager, Through the Eyes of Agony Art Program for Myanmar’s Displaced Children, Myanmar
Zaw Tu Hkawng is an anti-military coup activist from Myanmar and the founder of the "Through the Eyes of Agony Art Program." This initiative works to support Myanmar’s internally displaced children with the support of the New Zealand Embassy in Myanmar, UnionAID from New Zealand, and generous individual donors. Previously, Zaw worked as a project coordinator for BBC Media Action Myanmar, overseeing the nationally broadcast radio drama "Tea Cup Diaries." This program aimed at promoting peace and social cohesion among diverse ethnic and religious communities. In addition to his media work, Zaw has provided special assistance to Myanmar refugees in Malaysia.
Mr. Zaw served as the managing director of Harvest Rehabilitation Center, overseeing the implementation of transformative therapies, including sports, music, art, and spiritual practices. Through his effective leadership and these interventions, the center successfully rehabilitated individuals struggling with drug addiction, equipping them with employable skills and fostering a sense of respect and dignity, ultimately facilitating their integration into society. As a McCain Global Leader, Mr. Zaw has trained and empowered Next-Generation-Leaders of Myanmar to become Character-Driven Leaders who embrace democracy, human rights, and justice. Prior to this, he worked in international affairs with the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office as a fellow. As a Bai Xian Scholar, Zaw wrote about the well-being of Myanmar refugees in Malaysia. Mr. Zaw had the honor of attending the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony in Oslo, Norway.