Learner Spotlight: Ahasun's Pursuit of Education

When Ahasun arrived in the United States in 2024, he was eager for one thing: the opportunity to continue his education.

Originally from Myanmar, Ahasun was just a few months away from graduating from high school in 2017 when his Rohingya family was forced to leave their home and settle in a refugee camp in Bangladesh. As the oldest child in his family, he felt a strong responsibility to pursue an education so he could help support those around him.

Over the next several years, Ahasun searched for opportunities to continue his studies. He returned to a different region of Myanmar and later traveled to Thailand, hoping to find access to education. Eventually, through the United States Refugee Admissions Program, he was able to come to the United States and begin building a new future.

"When I came to the United States, I had nothing again, so I was alone. I didn't know the culture, and I didn't know anyone here," Ahasun shared.

After arriving in West Michigan, Ahasun began working at Corewell Health in an entry-level position. Determined to keep learning, he participated in professional development opportunities offered through his employer. When he was referred to the Literacy Center of West Michigan to strengthen his skills and pursue healthcare training, he eagerly took the next step.

Ahasun enrolled in Goodwill's Certified Nurse Assistant training program in partnership with the Literacy Center.

"When I went to the Literacy Center, I was able to gain friendship with people and felt like I have a family right now," he said.

Completing the training this month was a significant milestone. "This was the highest level of training I had in my life," Ahasun shared.

Throughout the program, Ahasun worked closely with Literacy Center staff, including Class Coordinator Melissa. As he shared his passion for helping others, Melissa connected him with the West Michigan Asian American Association. Today, Ahasun works part-time as a Community Resource Navigator, helping connect community members who speak several different languages with important services and support. He is also beginning training through the Kent County Health Department to become a certified Community Health Worker.

Looking ahead, Ahasun's goals are centered on service.

"I really want to find a way to help people," he said. "When I was in a bad situation, a lot of people helped me. For my future, I want to become a community helper, like a community social worker, to provide the right resources to people at the right time."

As Ahasun prepares to take his Certified Nurse Assistant certification exam, he continues moving toward that goal, using education, compassion, and determination to create opportunities not only for himself, but for others as well.