Abstract:

Thailand: Impia Saiyong, 11 years old, was born in Burma (Myanmar), but now considers herself Thai. Her family and other indigenous tribal people are Burmese exiles living in the village of Ban Mai Samakii in Thailand. While her mother and stepfather farm a small plot of land outside the village, Impia and her sister attend a tuition-free local school for tribal children. Impia reveals her dreams and ambitions as well as the struggles of her people who are in the midst of a cultural transition. Philippines: Eleven-year-old Jurrick Aponte is a public school student living with his family in Upper Del Carmen, a squatter area in Davai City with wooden-frame shacks and no running water. The boy's father, a carpenter, seeks work outside the area. His mother is active in projects to build a better future and livelihood for the community. Jurrick relates the struggles, astrong spirit and hopes of the people. He enjoys sports and is learning carpentry, but his life goal is to become a doctor.