Since the escalation of conflict in Myanmar in 2021, communities across the country have been pushed to the brink by ongoing instability, widespread displacement, and economic collapse. In the city of Pyay, Bago region, a hub once known for its good infrastructure and strong connections, residents now face shrinking job markets, rising prices, and increasing restrictions on movement and limited opportunities.

For LGBTQIA+ individuals, these challenges are multiplied by discrimination, family rejection, and the daily struggle to live authentically. Many are excluded from formal employment or pushed into unsafe or exploitative work environments. Others, like transgender youth, face violence and discrimination not just in the streets—but within their own homes.

Soe Soe, a young transgender woman in Pyay, knows this reality too well. “I am studying at university, but my parents expect me to follow their path. They want me to wear a uniform, cut my hair short, and hide who I am. But I can’t become someone I’m not.”

Her passion lies in beauty and self-expression. Yet the path to becoming a makeup artist was blocked by financial barriers, societal judgement, and lack of access to inclusive education. "Even when I tried to learn on my own, people doubted my skills because of how I looked. I had no confidence,” she recalled.

Recognizing the compounding vulnerabilities faced by LGBTQIA+ communities, UNFPA, with funding from the Australian Government, empowered LGBTQIA+ individuals in Myanmar through LGBTQIA+ community-based organization. The support is to not only increase access to sexual, reproductive health, Gender based violence and MHPSS services, but also created inclusive livelihood pathways for LGBTQAI+ individuals. From 2022 to 2024, UNFPA had supported economic empowerment through business management training and start-up assistance, including sewing business training and general business start-up grants, enabling LGBTQIA+ individuals to achieve financial independence and self-reliance. In 2023, UNFPA in partnership with LGBTQAI+ CSOs,  launched a vocational training programme in makeup artistry, hairstyling, and floral design, led by the locally renowned artists to further enhance economic opportunities

Crucially, the training did more than build skills. It created a safe, affirming environment—where LGBTQIA+ participants could learn, grow, and be seen.

Soe Soe was among the 150 participants trained that year. “For the first time, I learned professionally—from someone who saw me, respected me, and taught me to believe in my work.”

Today, Soe Soe is not just surviving—she is thriving. Her client base has grown, her income has increased by over 50%, and she now offers full bridal packages that bring in six times her previous earnings. Her family, once doubtful, now recognizes the value of her work and the dignity in her choice.

“I no longer need to rely on anyone for daily expenses,” she says proudly. “This work allows me to be who I am—and to support others.”

Beyond her personal journey, Soe Soe wants to lift up others in the LGBTQIA+ community: “I want to show that we can succeed without hiding who we are. I want to help others rise.”

In 2024, UNFPA continued its partnership with local Civil Society Organizations to support LGBTQIA+ individuals by integrating vocational training with gender-based violence (GBV) awareness, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) rights education, and psychosocial support. These efforts are helping to reduce gender-based violence, end stigma, and build inclusive, resilient communities—where LGBTQIA+ people are empowered.