Economics lecturer Tin Hta Nu fled Myanmar in 1990 after her life was threatened. Despite her experience of post-traumatic stress disorder and racism, she is devoted to giving back to her community.
In 2005, after setting up a community cafe, Tin Hta created a community garden where she teaches locals how to grow and cook fresh produce.
With friends, she founded The Mid North Coast Refugee Support Group (MNCRSG) in Port Macquarie in 2011. The group counters myths about asylum seekers and advocates against the inhumane treatment of refugees. MNCRSG has since helped 20 refugees successfully settle in the town.
Tin Hta holds events at her home for refugees and volunteers to connect and sells produce from her garden to fundraise for MNCRSG. She also provides regular meals for people experiencing homelessness.
Tin Hta helped set up a school in Myanmar, educating 200 children living in poverty, as well as financing the education of female orphans and libraries in rural areas.