MEET THE 2022 GIA FINALISTS: YAZA SWE

Originally from Burma, Yaza Swe is a community leader inside the Burmese Community and across Indiana through his work at Exodus Refugee & Immigration. Yaza’s personal experiences make him a candidate who understands the needs of other global citizens fleeing their own countries for similar reasons and experiencing similar challenges. He has helped diversify Indiana’s workforce by connecting thousands of refugee clients to resources helping them resettle their new lives in Indianapolis and find meaningful employment opportunities. As one of the three finalists for the 2022 Global Impression Award, he plans to leave his global impression on the state of Indiana by educating employers on the benefits of working with diverse populations.

EDUCATION:

Ball State University – Bachelor of Science

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, New Delhi, India – Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

Western Governors University – Master of Science in Leadership & Management

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis – Certificate in Human Resources Management

INVOLVEMENT:

Board of Directors/Trustees for Indianapolis Buddhist Association

Board of Directors for Burmese American Community Institute

Natural Helper with Immigrant Welcome Center 

RECENT CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

In addition to helping his clients join the workforce, Yaza is an advocate for continued workforce development and training through his passion for helping newcomers to Indiana see their full professional potential. Over the years, Yaza has recruited, nurtured and grown relationships with over three hundred Indiana employers, including JW Marriot and Indiana University Health. Recently, Yaza has recently moved into an official leadership role, strengthening his impact across Exodus’ agency and the wider community. Yaza participated in developing the Exodus Refugee’s strategic plan, importantly providing representation not only as a leader at Exodus but as a leader in the refugee community.

WHY YAZA CALLS INDIANA HOME:

Yaza is a prime example of how a global citizen can thrive inside of Indiana. In working with refugees from around the globe, Yaza stated that he is “honored to be part of their journey of coming to Indiana” creating a sense of community focused on diversity, inclusion, and equity. When interviewed, Yaza expressed, “Through the U.S. refugee program, my family has regained hope for a future that was not possible before coming here.” Thus, Indiana has quickly become home for Yaza and he wishes the same for his fellow refugees.

 

Yaza and the two other Global Impression Award Finalists will be celebrated at the International Citizen of the Year event on October 18, 2022. Tickets available now!

 

By: Julie Johnson, Marketing & Communications Intern