Backgound
In the expansive landscape of Myanmar and along the Thailand-Myanmar border, numerous media agencies operate, yet a critical void exists in representing border issues, particularly those affecting marginalized populations and vulnerable groups. Mae Sot, a city of paramount importance on the border, serves both as a crucial economic hub and as a haven for the Burmese migrant community advocating for human rights justice. However, the narratives of these vulnerable populations remain unheard by the broader public.
At the heart of this border community, young people constitute the majority, arriving in Mae Sot for education, employment, familial support, or seeking refuge from the unjust system in Myanmar. Unfortunately, their stories and voices go largely unnoticed, overshadowed by the mainstream media’s neglect of young people’s issues related to education, livelihood, social well-being, and health.
Recognizing the imperative to empower young voices and address the unmet needs of this demographic, Border Echo, a youth-initiated media intervention, emerged in November 2023. Founded by a passionate group of young individuals in Mae Sot, Border Echo endeavors to fill the void by providing a platform for the unheard stories of the young, marginalized, and vulnerable populations on the border.
In a media landscape where the voices of young people are often overlooked, Border Echo strives to rectify this imbalance by leveraging media technologies. Through training programs, we aim to equip young individuals with the skills to articulate and share their experiences, bringing their untold stories to the forefront. Media, as a powerful tool, serves as a conduit for conveying messages to the public, making it an ideal platform to amplify the voices of the marginalized.
Beyond personal narratives, Border Echo recognizes the need to disseminate vital information on legal services, social support, healthcare, and education available on the border. Furthermore, fostering political awareness among marginalized populations is crucial to influencing border trends and promoting systemic change.
Border Echo stands as a testament to the collective efforts of young people determined to reshape the narrative surrounding their lives. It represents a dedicated space for young voices on the border, addressing the myriad challenges they face in health, education, social dynamics, legal rights, and livelihood. By shedding light on both the struggles and successes of young individuals, Border Echo aims to spark meaningful conversations, inspire change, and contribute to the overall well-being of the border community. Established with a vision to be a catalyst for positive transformation, Border Echo is committed to ensuring that the untold stories of the youth on the Thailand-Myanmar border are not only heard but also become catalysts for meaningful change.
Our Vision
“We envision a future where the resilient voices of the young and marginalized on the Thailand-Myanmar Border are not just heard but serve as catalysts for positive change.”
Our Mission
“Our mission is to empower the youth on the Thailand-Myanmar border by building their capacity in media skills. We provide a dedicated platform for them to share their untold stories, promoting local services and fostering connectivity with other media platforms. Through these initiatives, we aim to amplify voices, bridge communities, and inspire positive change for a more inclusive and informed society.”
Our Values
- Media Empowerment: We believe in the transformative power of media as a tool for empowerment. Our commitment is to equip the youth with the skills and confidence to share their narratives, fostering a culture where their voices contribute meaningfully to societal discourse.
- Youth Engagement: Central to our mission is active involvement and engagement of young individuals. We value the unique perspectives and experiences they bring, recognizing that their participation is essential in shaping the narrative and addressing the challenges faced by their communities.
- Connectivity: We are dedicated to building bridges, both within the border community and beyond. By fostering connectivity, we seek to create a network that amplifies voices, shares knowledge, and promotes collaboration, ensuring a more connected and supportive society.
- Human Rights: We are unwavering in our commitment to upholding human rights. Every aspect of our work is guided by the principles of dignity, equality, and justice. We advocate for the rights of marginalized populations, particularly the youth, recognizing their inherent right to live in a society that respects and protects their fundamental freedoms.
- Transformative Social Change: At the core of our values is the pursuit of transformative social change. We aspire to go beyond surface-level impact, working towards systemic shifts that address root causes and contribute to building a more just, inclusive, and equitable society.
- Inclusion and Diversity: We embrace the richness of diversity and commit to fostering an inclusive environment. Our work is grounded in the belief that every voice, regardless of background or identity, deserves to be heard and valued. We actively promote diversity in all its forms, ensuring a representation that reflects the multifaceted tapestry of our communities.