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Scenes from the Water Eagles dragon boat team's kickoff at Captain Ku Htoo’s home! As a beloved young leader and advocate for Karen refugee youth, his dedication and wisdom never fail to leave us in awe. We wanted to share a particularly poignant reflection he recently shared that deeply touched us:
“Who is there to pave the way for us? I really like the question, and it truly hits home.
Our parents sacrificed everything to bring us to America in search of a better future. They left behind their families, their language, their culture, and everything they knew so that we could have opportunities they never had. We owe so much to them, and because of those sacrifices, many of us grow up feeling a deep responsibility to make their struggles worthwhile. We work hard, chase success, and do everything we can to support them as they grow older and face new challenges.
But somewhere along the way, I can’t help but ask: Who is there for us? Who helps carry our burdens? Who helps pave the way for the next generation?
Many children of immigrants live between two worlds. We navigate expectations from our families while trying to find our place in a society that doesn’t always understand us—or even welcome us. We face language barriers, cultural barriers, financial obstacles, and the constant pressure to succeed because failure doesn’t just feel personal; it feels like we’re letting down the sacrifices our parents made.
We carry responsibilities that many people never see. We become translators, advocates, role models, and providers long before we’re ready. We often suppress our own struggles because we don’t want to add to our parents’ burdens. Mental health is rarely talked about, yet so many of us quietly battle anxiety, self-doubt, loneliness, and the weight of expectations while trying to build a future from limited resources.
Despite all of that, we keep going. We learn. We adapt. We overcome. We strive to become people our parents can be proud of, even when the journey feels lonely.
That’s why I believe so deeply in the vision and mission that WAVES is building. It fills a gap that has existed for far too long. Every generation deserves someone who can guide them, mentor them, and remind them that they don’t have to navigate this path alone. Sometimes all it takes is one person to say, ‘I’ve walked this road before—let me help you find your way.’
What you’re doing is bigger than a program or an organization. It’s creating a community where people feel seen, understood, and supported. It’s giving hope to those who often feel like they have to figure everything out on their own.
You will always have my support because I genuinely believe this work matters. It’s about more than helping individuals succeed—it’s about paving the way for future generations so they can carry less of the burden and more of the hope.”
At UCA WAVES, we share that same vision: creating a community where people feel seen, understood, and supported.
We certainly saw hope at this incredible cookout. Our deepest thanks to Ku Htoo for not only welcoming us into his home, but also allowing us a glimpse into his heart and mind. Let’s go make some WAVES, Water Eagles!
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