Leading with humility and solidarity in Myanmar

The vital health work under way in Myanmar is led by Dr Phone Myint Win, whose commitment to respect, compassion and solidarity is shaping stronger, more resilient communities.

For nearly two decades, Dr Phone has led Burnet Institute’s work in Myanmar with a rare mix of expertise, humility, and deep connection to the communities he serves.

As Burnet’s country representative, he has steered health programs through natural disasters, political upheaval, and ongoing humanitarian challenges – always guided by the belief that lasting change is founded on collaboration, solidarity, and mutual respect.

“We must listen to the voices of the community and other stakeholders. We must build partnerships.”

Guided by family, grounded in values

This cooperative way of working was established early in Dr Phone’s life.

As a child, he saw his mother’s kindness, empathy, and compassion in action, while his father, a public health specialist, dedicated his career to supporting people affected by leprosy and their families.

“He taught me the principles of respect, equality and inclusion,” says Dr Phone.

Those values continue to guide him today as he works with his team to bring essential health services within reach of communities across the country, while also responding to urgent health needs in times of crisis – from storms and floods to armed conflict, and the devastating earthquakes of this year.

Building resilience in challenging times

Under his leadership, Burnet’s Myanmar programs address critical issues including HIV, hepatitis C, malaria, tuberculosis, maternal and child health, adolescent health, and mental health – often in hard-to-reach communities facing extreme poverty.

Following Myanmar’s military coup, Dr Phone championed a new focus on resilience, integrating psychosocial support and mental health care into existing programs.

In 2024, his inspirational qualities as a leader were recognised with the Frank Fenner Award, one of Burnet’s highest honours.

But for Dr Phone, the real reward lies in the future.

“I believe in the potential of my daughter and my son, the next generation, which is why I believe in the future of Myanmar,” he says.

“I have radical hope.”

It is the generosity of donors like you that makes this work possible, and powers Dr Phone’s dream of a better, healthier, and more equitable Myanmar.

Together, we can stand with communities in Myanmar, in times of crisis and for the long road ahead.

It’s now been several months since the earthquakes hit, but humanitarian needs remain acute across the affected areas.

“This underscores the importance of sustained support beyond the immediate relief and early recovery.”