"Iconic Figures in the Fight for Democracy."

Preena Patel listened to a recent episode, “A Candle in Darkness,” and offers this listener feedback:

In the digital age where news often seems fleeting and distant, there exists a rare podcast that reaches far beyond the headlines, unearthing the authentic heartbeat of a nation in turmoil. As a devoted listener of Insight Myanmar, I feel blessed to embark on an extraordinary voyage that transcends borders and touches the deepest fibres of the heart. This podcast dares to humanize the struggles of a nation and its resilient people, painting an intimate portrait that shatters the barriers of distance.

From the first episode, I was captivated by the raw and unfiltered voices of Myanmar's brave souls. They spoke not as mere subjects of news but as human beings with dreams, fears, and hopes. The guest on this episode, Shade, poignantly shares, "We've done a lot of work in traveling to those [IDP] camps, helping them not just in terms of medical aid, we've helped them rebuild their tent and their homes as well in certain places. And we've saved lives. We've assisted in childbirth and pregnancy as well in these IDP areas."

Insight Myanmar does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by Myanmar's citizens amid the ongoing conflict. Instead, it embraces the complexity of their plight. At one point, the host says, "When the coup first happened, and I was in America at the time, I just felt devastated. I felt like I was this passive, helpless observer of history that was taking place half a world away, by a professional military, knowing how bad it was going to be, and feeling so powerless. And then once the decision is then made to be engaged, at least on my end, then it's, 'Well, what can I do? Who do I know? What skills do I have? In what ways can I be involved and engaged?' That led on my part to realising the power of the Insight Myanmar podcast platform, the wider outreach and events and networking we do, and the Better Burma nonprofit that we developed. Slowly over time, I started to realize, 'Oh, I can do this, and I can also do that.' That was the process I went through in responding to the coup and figuring out where my role could be in it."

What sets Insight Myanmar apart is its steadfast commitment to amplifying diverse perspectives. With each episode, a chorus of voices resonates—Burmese scholars, local communities, and foreign allies—all harmonising to create a rich and multi-dimensional understanding. As I listened, I found my heart expanding, embracing a connection that transcends borders and cultures.

But the podcast goes beyond mere storytelling; it is a lifeline for Myanmar's suffering communities. Insight Myanmar's humanitarian efforts shine through as they share how donations support the Civil Disobedience movement, aid families of deceased victims, and provide essentials for displaced persons. Shade explained during the podcast. "To me, it's not about patriotism, or nationalism or anything like that. I just want to make my homeland a better place, being free from all sorts of oppression. I think that's the thing that drove me. And of course, in approaching this, the best way for me to do it is to get involved in these sort of activities, raising funds, that probably the raising funds, probably pot is the most important thing that diaspora can do.”

Shade's persistent dedication exemplifies the power of the diaspora in making a meaningful impact and offering hope to their homeland amid ongoing challenges.

Through Insight Myanmar, I have discovered a newfound appreciation for the country's rich heritage. Artisans and vulnerable communities find support through this platform, which showcases their handicrafts and preserves their cultural legacy. Shade beamed with pride as he said, "Our aim this year is to expand into the educational sector, keeping education for the children going... for a new, better peaceful Burma."

While listening to the podcast, I couldn't help but reflect on the historical significance of the Saffron Revolution and its continued impact on Myanmar's fight for democracy. Shade reflected on the early days of the coup, noting that doctors and other medical professionals were among the first to stand up against the military regime with the Civil Disobedience Movement. Their courage and activism made them iconic figures in the fight for democracy. However, the military hasn't forgotten its role, and it's disheartening to see that the same military now endangers those who save lives. Even essential medicines like paracetamol are confiscated in some areas, making the situation even more horrifying. Transporting medicine also comes with significant risks.

Let us stand united with Myanmar's people in their journey towards a better and more peaceful future. Together, we can serve as a guiding light, showing the world the resilience of the Burmese people in their pursuit of justice and democracy.

Visit Insight Myanmar's website to learn more about their humanitarian efforts and how you can contribute to this noble cause. Your support will make a real difference in the lives of those affected by the conflict. Join us in being a part of this journey of compassion and help create a brighter tomorrow for Myanmar.