APHEDA supports inspiring Burmese women

In times of crisis, extraordinary individuals can spark movements that transform entire communities.

When the Myanmar military staged its coup in early 2021, the country plunged into a new era of authoritarian rule. Amid this turmoil, one of Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA’s partner organisations, ALTSEAN, has been empowering displaced Burmese women through its Women of Burma (WOB) program. This initiative equips women with skills in human rights, advocacy, project management, and leadership—helping them rebuild their lives and fight for a better future.

The WOB program is just one example of the Australian union movement’s solidarity with those affected by Myanmar’s oppressive regime, supporting their resilience and resistance.

Women Stepping Up

For Cici, a Chin woman, the coup changed everything. She set aside her dreams of higher education to focus on addressing the urgent needs of her community. Internally displaced people, Civil Disobedience Movement activists, and human rights defenders all needed her support—and Cici found herself ready to lead, thanks to the confidence and skills she gained through the WOB internship program.

Similarly, Flower, also from Chin State, joined the second WOB internship. Initially shy and hesitant to speak in public, she emerged from the program transformed, with newfound self-assurance and leadership capabilities.

Building a Movement

Through the program, Cici and Flower connected and quickly realised the power of collaboration. Cici, who had been providing individual support to activists and IDPs, saw the need for a more coordinated approach. Together, they founded The Ladies—an organisation that challenges traditional perceptions of women’s groups in Chin State, which are often limited to “women’s issues.” Instead, The Ladies leads the way in addressing diverse community needs across multiple sectors.

In just three years, The Ladies has grown into a thriving organisation with a team of 15 workers and four volunteers. The group has secured international aid funding and developed powerful and effective programs across four key areas:

• Humanitarian Relief: Delivering essential support to internally displaced people.

• Sustainable Livelihoods: Offering training programs that create opportunities for long-term stability.

• Rights Awareness: Educating communities on human rights, international humanitarian law, and women’s rights.

• Community Engagement: Building relationships and campaigns with youth leaders and civil society groups to inspire and sustain activism.

Hope in Solidarity

Cici and Flower’s journey from WOB interns to founders of The Ladies exemplifies the power of women-led initiatives in fostering resilience and building movements. By defying expectations and stepping into leadership roles, they have not only transformed their own lives but have become catalysts for change in their community.

Their story reminds us that even in the darkest times, determination and collaboration can light the way to a brighter future. With the support of members, Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA continues to stand with Myanmar’s workers and communities in their fight for democracy.

Women's Voices from the Revolution book

At International Women’s Day, Debbie Stothard—one of Asia’s leading human rights advocates and former Secretary-General of the International Federation for Human Rights—launched Women's Voices from the Revolution, a groundbreaking collection of writings by first-time authors. Convened by human rights organization ALTSEAN Burma, the book is a powerful testament to women’s resistance against military rule, oppression, and sexual violence in militarised societies.

Learn more about the book at altsean.org

If you haven’t yet, join Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA, the Australian union movement’s organisation for global solidarity. Sign up at apheda.org.au/join.