"...The stories you tell in this book are important stories to share. In this book, you document the ongoing oppression of the people of Shan State at the hands of the military junta in Burma. Many of you have had family members killed by the regime, or watched family members die because of the lack of decent medical services. Many of you have also known what it is like to have your village burned and family and friends tortured. Most of you also know what hunger feels like because of the extreme poverty and deprivation your communities endure. Your stories document the injustice and inequality experienced by the people of Shan State and, in fact, so many other communities within Burma. However, equally important, you document hope. Pursuing an education is acting on the belief that the future can and should be better. You did the hard work to get into SSSNY, and then complete the program, because you know that education is what will move the people of Burma forward to a better future. And, in part because of the extraordinary educators at SSSNY, but even more thanks to the extraordinary people you are, you will help make this happen. Each of you, in your own way, is a leader. Indeed, a good education leads to action—and it is clear to me that Burma’s hope for the future now rests in your capable hands. My fellow Nobel Laureates sisters and I spend a great deal of our time talking to youth around the world because we strongly believe that you have the power to bring about positive change. As I told you when we met, I had the good fortune to meet my sister Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi in 2003. Though circumstances have not permitted us to talk since that time, I can say with confidence that she is proud of your achievements. We all are.Each and every one of you will make a huge difference to the lives of your people. Some of you aspire to be doctors, others educators or artists. Stay true to who you are, and your vision for a better world, and I know you will achieve what you set out to do.Thank you again for sharing your stories. Though my colleagues and I cannot be at your graduation, please know that we are there in spirit. You have our support, and our gratitude for your hard work and your achievements.