Good afternoon, everyone.
My name is Yamin Ohnmar, and I am proud to be here today as a graduate of the Heller School.
I come from Myanmar—a country facing crisis, conflict, and hardship. I am also a blind woman. These parts of my identity brought me many challenges, but they also gave me purpose and strength.
As a blind girl growing up in Myanmar, I was surrounded by judgment and overprotection. Many believed I needed pity, not opportunity. Society tried to limit me. But my parents stood by me. They believed in my abilities and encouraged me to speak up, learn, and lead. Their trust in me gave me the strength to move forward—step by step.
Before coming to Heller, I worked for the Myanmar National Association of the Blind and represented blind women in the Asia-Pacific region through the World Blind Union. I saw how women with disabilities are excluded, but I also saw the power of courage, connection, and community.
At Heller, I found more than just education. I found people who respected my voice and valued my lived experience. I remember one class where we discussed social protection systems—my professor asked, “What would this look like through the lens of disability justice?” That moment stayed with me. It reminded me that what I bring to the table matters.
Some of my best memories were working with classmates from around the world—listening to their stories, learning from their struggles, and building friendships that gave me strength. These connections showed me that no matter where we come from, we all carry a shared hope for justice.
To my classmates: You came from many countries, spoke many languages, but we walked the same path—toward change. Let us now carry this learning forward. Let us fight for those who are unheard and unseen.
To the Heller community: Thank you for giving me the space to grow. You did not just teach me policy—you reminded me that I belong.
And to the blind girls in Myanmar who are told they cannot dream—this moment is for you. You are not invisible. You are not broken. You are powerful, you are worthy, and your future is bright.
Thank you, and congratulations to the Class of 2025.