Typhoon Yagi, known as the greatest typhoon of Asia in 2024, has taken the lives of at least 220 people in Myanmar, and drastically changed the lives of 631,000. In addition, it is estimated that 500 people of Southeast Asia have perished due to mudslides and flooding, and hundreds of acres of crops have been utterly devastated, as of October 19. There is a great need for food, clothing and shelter in our country, according to the UN (United Nations). However, the biggest issue is getting to survivors in the first place. Because of the conflicts happening  , many rescuers have been unable to access many regions, ultimately resulting in many potential survivor’s deaths. According to rescuers, entire homes have been buried by mudslides and over 100 dead bodies have been found in just the southern region of Myanmar, with expectations for at least a hundred more findings.

Now, it is time to answer the million dollar question: How can the AIS Community help ?

In September, outstanding leaders of volunteering organisations such as SOS, NutriSmiles, WOKO, MHO, AAA, STUCO, Jr. STUCO, WEG CCO, The Burman, and Ayeyarwaddy International School and its staff members have collaborated to donate funds, food, clothing and other necessities to flood victims in Pa La Dhaung Village and Shwe Paw Kyun Village in Than Tha Oo Township.

Moreover, the AIS school community plans on collaborating with parents to lead a second wave donation focusing on reparations of damages in Mandalay, hoping to aid reconstructing the place where the people once called “home.” In conclusion, as the clubs continue their rather complicated yet purposeful alliance,we wish them good luck.

Julia Jade Jiang
AIS, Myanmar