Obama Scholar John Hiu Fai Mak, MAIDP Class of 2019

John Hiu Fai Mak, 27, earned a BA in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from Durham University.

While in Myanmar during a 2013 trip, Mak witnessed the power of reform which originates in local communities, and he was struck by the commitment shown by the reform agents he met. In 2017, Mak cofounded MM Community, a social venture which engages local citizens in their communities’ infrastructure through crowdfunding and project-based government bonds with low interest rates and full repayment by the government.

Mak sees individual participation on local issues as an important tenet of reform, and he views collaboration as vital and powerful for the future of Myanmar. Mak observed humility in the reformers he worked with in 2013, and that humility is something he channels in order to support Myanmar’s democracy.

The Obama Foundation Scholars Program provides Mak with opportunities to study alongside other students and leading experts who have effected positive change in their countries. Mak’s proximity to the other Obama Foundation Scholars will encourage him and the rest of the cohort to learn new techniques for leadership and governance.

After the Obama Foundation Scholars Program, Mak will return to Myanmar and serve his community through the continued development of infrastructure. He wishes to join the civil service in his native Hong Kong eventually.

"As Obama Foundation Scholars, we will be given unique opportunities to develop our leadership qualities. Given that my work in Myanmar involves stakeholders ranging from government ministers to local villagers, I hope to hone my communications and advocacy skills by leveraging on President Obama's insights as an effective communicator.”