My name is Zimbo Htike, and I’m a Burmese student currently studying political science at Columbia University, New York. I moved to the United States in 2021 after fleeing the political turmoil in Burma. While I am far from home, my heart remains deeply connected to my people and my country.

On March 28th, 2025, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Burma (Myanmar), unleashing one of the deadliest natural disasters the country has faced in recent history. The catastrophic earthquake turned homes, schools, and entire communities into rubble within seconds. Over 3,000 people have lost their lives, more than 4,000 are injured, and Several are still missing with the real toll likely even higher.

The devastation caused by this earthquake is personal to me since families and friends I know are terribly suffering. Entire neighborhoods in central part of the country are gone. Survivors are sleeping in the open, without food, clean water, or medical care. Children are traumatized because of this tragic experience. Hospitals in the affected areas are overwhelmed. Unfortunately, current Military Regime’s response is very slow and insufficient.

This is a humanitarian emergency, and we cannot afford to look away. Therefore, I’m raising funds to support urgent relief efforts on the ground, including:

All donations will go directly to Lawkapala Foundation that are working with trusted local organizations and volunteers responding to the crisis. You can find their website here: https://www.lawkapala.org.au/

Why should you donate?

Because your support can bring hope where there is despair and your solidarity transcends border.

Because I believe that we can still choose to be a light in the darkest of times.

Please consider donating what you can. And if you can’t give right now, sharing this campaign can still save lives.

From the bottom of my heart, Thank you.

Let’s stand with the people of Burma(Myanmar).

Sincerely,

Zimbo Htike