Journey of Growth at SIPS: Learning to Build Peace in Everyday Spaces

Ei Thinzar Theint, also known as Ei, comes from Myanmar and has always been fascinated by the diversity of cultures, traditions, and languages. After completing her undergraduate studies, the COVID-19 pandemic and the military coup in Myanmar dramatically altered her future plans. Seeking new opportunities, she moved to Japan and attended a Japanese language school. While exploring graduate programs, Ei discovered the SIPS program and was immediately drawn to courses such as Civil War and Peace Processes, Music in Peacebuilding, and Ethnic Conflict and Resolution. Coming from a country affected by ongoing conflict, she felt a strong desire to contribute to peacebuilding and social understanding.

In SIPS, Ei initially struggled to participate in discussions and grasp unfamiliar concepts due to her academic background in German studies. Through the support of her classmates, extensive reading, and continuous effort, she progressed from being completely ignorant about the political perspective to being able to confidently comment on various issues taking place in the current era. One piece of advice from a friend stayed with her throughout this journey: “Everyone is smart in their own unique way. Don’t doubt your intelligence.”

Currently, Ei works for a real estate company that supports foreigners living in Japan. Initially, she worked as an intern for a three-month-long internship before joining the company. The definition of Inner Peace made a lasting impression on her. According to Ei, she has come to view peace not only as the absence of conflict, inner peace also means a sense of safety and security so that you can attain peace of mind and move towards peace. By helping people find a place to call home, she believes she is contributing to peace in a meaningful way. For Ei, every profession has the potential to create happiness and foster peace in society.

Ei’s message to the current and prospective students: “If you’re passionate enough about something, you’ll achieve it despite the challenges you face along the way. Don’t look back, and never regret your decisions. You’re contributing to society in ways you may not even realize.”