Growing up in an isolated village in western Myanmar was tough, with no running water or electricity, and little access to healthcare. The nearest hospital was several days’ walk away. SaSa was determined to become a doctor, but just as he reached the end of his training, the bamboo on which his community survived was wiped out, triggering a huge increase in rats, who ate what little food was left. The overwhelming challenges of trying to bring medical help to the remote region inspired SaSa to found the organisation Health and Hope, which has since enabled hundreds of villagers in Chin state to become community health workers. Dr SaSa has been recognised as one of Tearfund’s Inspired Individuals for his work in Myanmar.

Photograph: Courtesy of Myanmar Health and Hope