This panel session featuring Burma Christian diaspora oral history fellows Bawi Tin Par, Van Sui, Ma May Si, and Ciin Kham was recorded on August 7, 2026, as part of the Our Stories, Our Faith conference "Burma Christian Diaspora in Indianapolis: Celebrating Our Stories, Embracing Our Challenges." More information about the conference can be found at https://ourstoriesourfaith.org/. Meet the Oral History Fellows Bawitin Par currently works as a home-based case manager, supporting individuals and families through compassionate care and advocacy. She is pursuing a Master’s degree in Biblical Counseling and Clinical Counseling in Mental Health, integrating faith-based principles with professional counseling practices. In addition to academic and professional responsibilities, Bawitin serves as a Ministry Assistant for the High School Ministry, where she is passionate about mentoring and encouraging young people in their spiritual growth. Through her work, studies, and ministry involvement, she is committed to serving others with empathy, integrity, and Christ-centered guidance. Ciin Kham is a Licensed Minister and LMFTA (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate) serving the southside community of Indianapolis. With a deep passion for supporting the Burmese diaspora facing mental health challenges, Ciin offers holistic care that integrates clinical expertise with faith-based counseling. Their work fosters emotional healing and spiritual growth through culturally sensitive support, practical teaching, and accessible resources. Rooted in compassion, clarity, and hope, Ciin equips individuals and communities to thrive in both faith and life. Ma May Si, also known as Maysi, is a passionate Matu Chin leader in the community. She obtained her Master’s in Public Health from the University of Missouri-Columbia, with an emphasis in Promotion and Policy, and recently moved to Indiana to reunite with family and to better serve the Burmese community. Maysi currently serves as the Vice President for the Matu Affairs Organization USA, volunteers at the Chin Center, and is a youth leader at her church in Indianapolis. Through the OSOF Fellows Program, she hopes to amplify the stories of the Burmese Christian diaspora and highlight the profound role God has played in the lives of community members. Van Sui is the founder of JeSui Strategies, a Kingdom-focused public affairs, political, and government affairs consulting firm. She is a civic leader who demonstrates leadership through government and community services. Van has participated in competitive leadership programs such as the Global Young Diplomats Forum, Global Leadership Series, and National Leadership Academy of Congressional Studies in Washington, D.C. She earned a master’s in leadership and public service (LPS) and a bachelor’s in political science, philosophy, and economics (PPE), both from private Christian universities. As a pastor’s kid, Van grew up in a church-centered environment in Burma/Myanmar. She came to the U.S. in 2013 and has called Indiana home since then. Photo credit (thumbnail): Jacob Him, Svolta Film This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caacptsem.substack.com
